1. “I Can’t” Jar—When children say they can’t do something, write down the problem and pray about it together. When the problem or obstacle has been overcome, put the slip of paper in the jar as a visual reminder of what God helps us accomplish.

2. Calm and Collected—Model for children how to react to bad or scary news. Don’t use worst-case scenarios or exaggerate risks just to make a point. Instead, provide accurate, age-appropriate information. Empower kids and give them a sense of control by brainstorming solutions with them.

3. Stand Together—Remind children that everyone has weaknesses and that God puts us in families to support one another. Practice using “I” statements to speak out for what you need, whether it’s help or hugs.

Start a conversation about problem-solving by asking these questions:

1. When you can’t figure out something, how do you feel? How do you
usually react, and why?

2. Where do you look for answers to your problems?

3. What lessons have you learned from dealing with different problems? What have you learned about yourself in the process?

 FAMILY EXPERIENCE

Use these fun activities, adapted from Group’s Hands-On Bible, to show how God helps us solve problems:

 • Falling Walls—Read aloud Joshua 6:1-20, when God knocks down the walls of Jericho without force. Say: “Does this sound impossible? Let’s try it!” Break graham crackers into fourths and spread marshmallow creme on one side of each section. Stack the crackers on top of each other, using the creme as cement. Line up several stacks to form a wall. Say: “Let’s shout at our wall as loudly as we can.” Afterward, ask what happened. Say: “That’s right—nothing! It isn’t easy to bring down a wall with just noise, but God did it. God is awesome!” As you eat each section of the wall, discuss times when you need God’s power. Close in prayer, asking God to help you with all your problems and challenges.

• Strength to Fly—Ask: “Ever wish you could fly?” Read aloud Isaiah 40:31. Say: “That verse isn’t talking about people flying. But it’s a promise that if we trust God, he’ll give us new strength.” Have family members each try this cool trick as a reminder to trust God when problems arise. Stand in a doorway. Press the backs of your hands against the door frame as hard as you can. Count to 25. Then move away from the doorway, relax your arms, and discuss what happens. Say: “You found new strength! When you stopped pressing so hard, your arms wanted to fly up. God promises to renew our strength when we trust him, even when we’re tired and troubled. Next time things gets tough, justremember that God promises to give us new strength.”

Movies

Title: Chimpanzee

Genre: True-Life Adventure

Rating: G

Cast: Oscar and family

Synopsis: This Disneynature film takes viewers into Africa’s forests to meet Oscar, who must fend for himself after rivals attack his family. A portion of opening-week proceeds will go to chimpanzee-protection programs.

Our Take: Families can use this film to discuss God’s creatures, their habitats, and how we care for them. Older children can talk about creation vs. evolution.

Music

Artist: Willow Smith

Album: Knees and Elbows

Artist Info: Smith, the 11-year-old fashion trendsetter who has famous parents, hit it big with her singles “Whip My Hair” and “21^st-Century Girl.”

Summary: Knees and Elbows,
Willow’s debut album, has been described as “a gumbo of R&B, pop, and rock.” The first single, “Fireball,” features Nicki Minaj.

Our Take: Willow says her album is all about kid empowerment. Overall, she succeeds, though with a sometimes-sassy tone.