58. Engaging the Next Generation: Beth Meverden on Raising Church-Connected Kids

Beth Meverden, the Family Ministry director and seasoned expert in children's ministry, joins us for a conversation that every parent needs to hear. In her book, *Church(ing) Kids: 4 Keys to Keeping Your Children Engaged in Church*, she lays out practical strategies to help kids not just attend church, but to truly engage with it. We chat about practical, everyday moments that can turn into teachable opportunities, from car rides to bedtime stories, all while sprinkling in a bit of humor and relatable parenting chaos. Beth's experience in family ministry shines through, reminding us that integrating faith into our daily lives can be both intentional and fun. So whether you're a seasoned pro or just trying to keep the little ones alive (no judgment here!), this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement for all the moms.Episode HighlightsBeth Meverden emphasizes the importance of parents being the primary spiritual educators for their children, not just leaving it to the church.Intentional spiritual training can be seamlessly integrated into daily life, making it less daunting and more meaningful for families.Creating teachable moments is crucial; conversations about faith should happen naturally during everyday activities.The necessity of modeling grace and forgiveness in front of children is highlighted to help them grow into compassionate adults.Serving together as a family can deepen faith connections and provide a shared sense of purpose in their community.Finding time for rest and reflection is essential for spiritual growth and family bonding, allowing for rejuvenation in our busy lives.Resources MentionedChurch-ing Kids: 4 Keys to Keeping Your Children Engaged in Church by Beth MeverdenHow to Share the Good News About Jesus With Your ChildrenChurch(ing) Kids Info PageEtsy Shop for More ResourcesThe Disciple-Making Parent by Chap Bettis“The Christian Girl’s Tea” Podcast - for teen and college-age girlsFamTime PodcastThe Maven Parent PodcastRelated Episodes You Might Also LikeEP 24 - Parental Burnout and Overwhelm with “Dr. Nurse Mama” Jessica PeckEP 34 - Proactive Leadership with Bethany ReesEP 39 - The Source of Empowerment with Becky BeresfordEP 48 - Why Bible Study is Important with Kala YoderConnect with BethWebsite: www.bethmeverden.comInstagram: @trainingyourchild  Facebook: @TrainYourChidrenConnect with RachelWebsite: racheldbaker.comInstagram: @rachel.d.baker Email: [email protected] means so much to me that you are part of this community! I never recommend anything to you that I don't truly love and believe is worthwhile. Some of the links I share are affiliate links, and I will earn a tiny commission if you go through them to make a purchase. It's no extra cost to you, and buying through the links I share is one small way you can support this ministry and our podcast. Mentioned in this episode:FREE Printable Permission SlipsIf you’ve been feeling like you need a minute to catch your breath, hear from God, and remember who you are outside of all the chaos... this is for you. It’s a Printable Permission Slip. Yes, an actual fill-in-the-blank reminder that you are allowed to rest, reflect, and realign with what really matters. When you download it, you’ll get four designs of beautiful, fill-in-the-blank permission slips and 20 permission slip ideas to get you started. You don’t need the world’s permission to step into your purpose - but sometimes it helps to see it in writing.Printable Permission SlipsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy