Back To School & Christian Parenting

Back-to-school meltdowns aren’t just misbehavior—they’re messages from your child’s heart. Learn how to respond with grace, connection, and Christ-like understanding.

"The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Sam. 16:7

The back to school transition can bring all kinds of emotions, and with those emotions can come some challenging behaviors for parents. When we add anxiety, bullying, trauma, special abilities, and neurodiversity into the mix, it can seem defeating. What we often forget in those trying moments, is that our children don’t have the language to express those emotions or the skills to regulate them. It’s a parent’s job to help them learn. Sometimes, however, we look at the outward behaviors and fail to look at the child’s heart. In order to parent as God parents us, we need to first discern what they are trying to communicate. 

Here are a few practical steps:

Regulate yourself - Take some deep breaths, say a prayer, and ask for help.

Soften your approach - Get down on your child’s level, use a soft touch, and speak in a calm, gentle voice.

Validate the emotions - Let them know you see and understand how your child feels. 

Correct the behaviors - Tell your child how you want them to handle those emotions.

Every tough moment is a chance to teach, connect, and show your child what it means to be loved—just like God loves us.

The parenting article above was written by In Him Staff Clinician Abby Turner, MFT. Abby has been serving on staff at In Him Christian Wellness for 3 years using her knowledge and abilities to serve individuals, children and families, and is our Executive Director.

Learn More About Abby