November 3, 2025- This weeks message
As parents, we all want our kids to grow up making good choices, not just doing what everyone else does or reacting in the moment. But that kind of decision making doesn’t happen overnight. It starts with small lessons, real conversations, and a little family reflection along the way.
🧭 Deciding vs. Sliding — What’s the Difference?
When we decide, we stop to think about what we’re doing. We weigh our options, consider the consequences, and take ownership of the outcome.
When we slide, we just sort of go along with things, maybe because everyone else is, or because it’s easier not to think too hard about it.
Helping kids understand that difference can be eye opening. They start to see that their choices actually shape their lives, even in little ways.
💬 Talking About Choices at Home
The best place to practice decision making is right at home. Family discussions can turn everyday moments into learning opportunities.
You might ask questions like:
- “What made you pick that option?”
- “How do you think that choice might turn out?”
- “What would you do differently next time?”
You can also share your own thought process, how you make tough calls, what tradeoffs you think about, or even times you wish you had made a different choice. Kids learn a lot when they see adults being thoughtful and honest.
🪞 The Power of Reflection
Reflection is where real growth happens. After a decision, whether it went well or not, talk about it. Ask your child how they felt about it, what they learned, and what they might do differently next time.
Reflection doesn’t mean dwelling on mistakes. It’s about helping kids connect actions with outcomes and understand themselves a little better each time.
❤️ Why It Matters
When kids learn to make conscious choices, they gain confidence and self awareness. They stop drifting through life and start steering their own path, one thoughtful decision at a time.
As parents, we can’t and shouldn’t make every choice for them. But we can give them the tools to think deeply, decide wisely, and learn from experience — and that’s one of the most lasting gifts we can offer.
Unleashed Learning Gateway 