3. When you have instituted screen-free times for your family, about how long does it take for everyone to calm down, shift their focus, and engage with the family? What good results
have you seen from screen-free times with your family?
4. As technology has reduced waiting time in so many aspects of everyday life, have you found yourself increasingly impatient? Give an example of when you notice this in yourself.
5. When have you found it hard to discipline yourself to tackling something difficult or tedious? Do your teens know you experience frustration and weariness when it comes to some of the tasks in your life? When have you seen your teens give up easily? When have they worked hard and found it gratifying?
6. What nontech activities do the teens and adults in your family enjoy? Brainstorm an additional list right now.
7. What actions lead to negative disciplinary consequences in your family? Dr. Kathy talks about establishing ground rules and then using language that reinforces the teen's responsibility of choosing: “You chose a good path. You did well.” Or, “Your decision led to trouble.” What good results could come from emphasizing the teen's ability to choose?
8. What have been some “growth points” in your teen's lifeâtimes when he or she struggled with an issue and really came through it with positive changes? Have you been able to talk with your teen to affirm his or her choices and actions during that time?
1. Would you say that variety has always been everyone's spice of life, or do you think today's multiple available choices feed
a bigger demand for options? When have you seen this in action?
2. Have you personally ever been overwhelmed when faced with too many options? When have you seen this happen to your teen?
3. When have you been able to sort or narrow a range of options for your teen who is faced with a big decision? What other ways have you been able to participate in your teen's decision-making?
4. If you are familiar with the Bible, can you think of specific principles or verses that promote contentment as opposed to demand for choices? Brainstorm some of these now.
5. Does your teen show an interest in meeting others' needs? How could you incorporate more opportunities to serve those who are needy, physically or emotionally?
6. On a scale of one to ten, what's the grumble factor in your household? How do you, as a parent, contribute to the complaining and arguing that take place? What works for you when you feel like complaining? How have you been able to help your kids refrain from arguing and complaining?
