Equip: Growing in Godly Parenthood
On Saturday, we had the great privilege of hearing from Dr. Jim Coffield, an expert in child development and communication, as he shared invaluable insights on the art of having difficult conversations with children and grandchildren. His presentation was not only informative but also deeply engaging, as he masterfully combined both broad concepts and specific examples to guide the audience through challenging parenting situations. Dr. Coffield’s approach was warm and gentle, making complex topics accessible and relatable for everyone in the room.
Throughout the session, Dr. Coffield provided practical advice on how parents and grandparents can approach difficult subjects with children in a way that fosters understanding, empathy, and emotional growth. He emphasized the importance of creating an open and safe environment where children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings. This, he explained, is essential to navigating sensitive conversations, whether they relate to personal issues, societal challenges, or family dynamics. Dr. Coffield encouraged us to approach such conversations with patience, listening attentively, and offering clear, honest responses
One of the key takeaways from Dr. Coffield’s talk was the idea that every conversation with a child or grandchild is an opportunity to teach them valuable life skills such as emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. He spoke about how these conversations, though often uncomfortable, can help children build resilience and learn to manage their emotions in healthy ways. He also shared specific strategies for dealing with difficult topics, such as how to talk about sensitive issues like bullying, mental health, or even complex family matters. His advice was rooted in years of experience working with families and children of all ages, making his guidance both practical and highly relevant to the audience.
Dr. Coffield also addressed the unique challenges that come with parenting in today’s world, particularly in the context of rapidly changing technology and the impact of social media on children’s lives. He provided thoughtful insights on how to talk to children about the dangers and benefits of technology, while also encouraging them to use these tools in responsible ways. His message was clear: the goal is not to shield children from the world but to equip them with the tools they need to navigate it confidently and safely.
The audience was deeply appreciative of Dr. Coffield’s expertise and the care with which he delivered his message. His presentation was not only informative but also inspiring, leaving everyone in attendance feeling more equipped and confident in their ability to have difficult but necessary conversations with their children and grandchildren. Many expressed gratitude for the practical tools and strategies they could immediately apply in their own lives. Dr. Coffield’s insights resonated on a personal level, reminding all of us of the critical role that communication plays in fostering strong, healthy relationships within families.
We are incredibly thankful to Dr. Coffield for his time, his dedication to helping parents and grandparents, and his unwavering commitment to improving the way we connect with and support the next generation. His talk was a true gift, and we left the conference feeling better prepared to love and parent well, with greater understanding and compassion.