The transition back to school routines in January can sometimes be hard. As we step into the New Year, this is the perfect opportunity for NTCA families to establish habits that reinforce our core Christian values and ensure that faith remains the compass for the year ahead.
Setting goals for academic success is important, but cultivating spiritual health helps the entire family thrive. Here are a few simple, practical ways parents can help their families start the year with a renewed focus on discipleship. Here are a few tips on how to start 2026 with a focus on faith.
Establish Morning Intentionality
The morning rush can be chaotic, but starting the day with intentionality can shift the family’s focus from stress to peace. Instead of trying to squeeze in a long devotion, choose a single Bible verse for the week. Post it on the fridge or a sticky note by the door. As your child heads out, briefly discuss what that verse means for their day.
You can also deepen your relationship with your child through faith-driven conversation starters. Instead of asking, “Did you finish your homework?” try asking, “What is one thing you are praying for today?” These types of questions shift the focus from performance to spiritual readiness.
Practice Gratitude as a Habit
A focus on gratitude shifts attention away from what the world demands and toward what God provides. Make it a routine to ask each family member. Ask each person, “What are you grateful for today?” or “How did you feel God’s presence today?” This encourages your family to actively look for God’s presence and opportunities for service.
You could also dedicate a simple jar to notes of gratitude. Anytime someone in the family experiences a blessing, big or small, write it down on a piece of paper and drop it in. Open the jar together mid-year or at the end of this year to remember God’s faithfulness.
Connect Faith to Daily Learning
Help your child see that their education is not separate from their faith; it is informed by it. When helping with homework or discussing a challenging situation, reference the school’s core values. For example, if they are working on a difficult project, remind them about the diligence required for good stewardship. If they are facing conflict, remind them what it means to be a good person by seeking peace.
You can also explore history and science in relation to faith. Discuss the faith background of important scientists, artists, or historical figures. This reinforces the idea that intellectual curiosity and faith can coexist and drive educational innovation.
Prioritize Community Worship
Making faith a priority outside the home reinforces its importance in your child’s life. Establish that Sunday morning worship is a non-negotiable family commitment. Modeling this commitment shows your children that growing in faith is a priority, not an option.
Another way to show commitment to worship is to engage in service together. Look for simple, daily friendly service projects to commit to early in the year. This could be volunteering at a food bank or preparing care packages. Service is where faith moves into action, and doing it together is a powerful spiritual lesson.
We look forward to partnering with you in the New Year to help your child grow in wisdom and faith. A strong start at home creates success in the classroom! Want to learn more about our programs or faith development? Visit our website and connect with NTCA today!