2-Year-Olds
Parent Resources
Your Child’s Phase
At this age, your child is becoming more independent and aware of “self.” It’s time to get comfortable being uncomfortable! The words “me” and “no” and “mine” will become regular parts of your child’s vocabulary as they want to show you that “I can do it myself.” While exploring this newfound independence, encourage your child to become more dependent upon God and less upon you. When your 2-year-old learns a new skill, celebrate the achievement with plenty of praise and positive attention. It’s also a good idea to help and encourage your child to keep doing the things they’ve learned, even if those things are difficult. Show them how to give God the glory for new skills mastered.
Your child’s primary knowledge of God’s love comes from you. Imitate the love of Christ with specific actions and words. Tell your child often how much you love him or her. Explain that the feeling of love should be expressed to others, not kept inside.
Involve other family members and friends in the spiritual development of your child. You should also establish relationships with other parents of 2-year-olds who share your values. Meet often so the children can play and the adults can talk and pray.
First and foremost, your child needs to see you walking with the Lord! Practice these five POWER disciplines as you follow Jesus:
Pray out loud from your heart
Obey your loving Father
Worship openly with your church
Explain your faith to others
Read your Bible daily
Spiritual Focus
Throughout the year, your child gets to know God during our services. As a parent, you are the most significant influence in your child's life. We have provided some age-appropriate spiritual focuses you can teach your child at home. By doing this, you are instilling God's Word in them and making it a priority in their life.
Encouragement
Younger children are often intimidated when they see other kids doing things they have not yet attempted. Uncertain of their abilities, these children hesitate or refuse to try new things. Just as a battery continually needs to be recharged, your child requires constant encouragement. Kids need large doses of support, affirmation, and praise to counterbalance their self-imposed limitations. Look for ways to build your child up. Become their biggest cheerleader. Let your kids know that you believe in them- no matter what!
Parent/
Child Engagement
We want to walk alongside you with your 2-year-old as they navigate their lives. These are resources and tools you can use with them!
Boundaries
As children grow older, they want fewer restrictions and more freedom. Young kids cannot understand why parents don’t trust their judgment. They view parental boundaries as roadblocks to their independence. Boundaries are a gift that provides both security and freedom.
Resources
Small Group Recommendations
Search for small groups at the link below. Some suggestions include:
- Fearless Parenting
- Mommy and Me Playgroup
- Parenting in a Digital World
- YANA
- Apologetics for Moms
- Parenting on Purpose
- Raising Kingdom Kids
- Fearless Parenting
- Mommy and Me Playgroup
- Parenting in a Digital World
- YANA
- Apologetics for Moms
- Parenting on Purpose
- Raising Kingdom Kids
* Please note – not all small groups available at all times
Articles
Recommended Reading
Boundaries with Kids: How Healthy Choices Grow Healthy Children
Dr Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
