#744: Remember the Stages

What developmental stage is your son in? David Thomas, a family therapist, has divided a boy’s life into five stages. Until age four, boys are in the “explorer” phase. When they turn five, they enter the “lover” stage. The third stage for our sons  is ages nine through twelve– the “individual.” Next is stage four, the “wanderer.” And finally, there’s the “warrior” phrase– between age eighteen into the mid twenties. When we as parents understand the phases our son is going through, it helps us develop realistic expectations for him. We also can give our son some grace. Remember that growing up can be difficult, and what he always needs most is a generous heap of love. For ideas for raising your son to be a godly man,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.