Wondering how to get your kids involved in family, health and faith decisions? Here are 5 practical ways to involve children in the family decision-making process.
Recently, I had the opportunity to plant evergreen trees in my yard. After removing several unhealthy trees and bushes, with the help of my children and a few of my Cedarville University students, I began the process of selecting suitable evergreens for planting.
Along the way, I intentionally involved my children in every step. During the removal process, I operated the chainsaw; my son hauled the cut pieces to the backyard; my daughters sprayed brush killer, used shears for smaller branches, and helped gather debris along the way. When it came time to decide which evergreens to plant, it was a family affair. Together, we researched different varieties, discussed spacing, considered placement, and I encouraged my children to share their thoughts throughout the process.
While I wouldn’t consider myself to have a green thumb, I did assume the role of “master gardener,” responsible for purchasing the trees, coordinating delivery, and handling tasks only I could manage.
When it came time to plant, however, digging holes, selecting additional soil, and watering, every family member participated. Much like a garden, a family flourishes when every member actively contributes. When children are given opportunities to participate in family decisions, develop healthy habits, and engage in spiritual growth, they become more resilient, knowledgeable, and connected—not only to their family, but also to the Lord.
Discipleship is not about doing everything for our children. Rather, it involves allowing them to practice independently, make mistakes, and then lovingly guiding them through those missteps.
With that in mind, here are several practical ways to involve children in family, health, and faith-based decisions.
During our weekly family meetings, we discuss chores, goals, and activities for the week. Some goals are short-term, while others are longer-range. We also plan meals and family commitments together. For example, if one of my children suggests hamburgers for dinner, I, being a hamburger enthusiast, am always happy to grill, regardless of the weather. If someone wants to see a movie or plan another activity, we do our best to make it happen as a family.
Our children’s responsibilities have evolved over time. At three years old, they helped dry dishes, assisted in the kitchen, and carried small trash bags from bathrooms and bedrooms. Today, they care for the dogs, clean their rooms, and manage additional household duties. The key is matching responsibilities to age-appropriate readiness.
As a family focused on healthy living, we invite our children to help plan and prepare nutritious meals. This includes browsing online recipes, learning about nutrition, and selecting fresh produce at the grocery store. When children participate in meal planning, they are more invested in healthy choices. As a Medi‑Share Member, you also have access to nutritional guidance and healthy recipes through the Biblical Wellness Program, designed to support your family in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Whether planning a family trip that requires saving together or reducing screen time, children should be involved in these discussions. They learn how decisions are made, observe respectful disagreement, and experience the reality that not everyone gets exactly what they want. These moments teach children how to navigate tension, weigh multiple perspectives, and trust that thoughtful decisions ultimately benefit the family as a whole.
We involve our children in spiritual practices by modeling faith and providing sound theological and doctrinal resources. My wife or I typically lead a family devotional in the morning, but our children are encouraged to choose when they complete their individual devotions. Some prefer mornings, others after school, or in the evening.
Involving children in decision-making comes with both benefits and challenges. The challenges are obvious: children will make mistakes, and those mistakes can cost additional time, money, or energy. Sometimes parents must clean up the consequences of poor choices.
However, after raising teenagers and listening to college students reflect on their upbringing over the past decade, I am convinced the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
When children help carry the load, they learn not only how to work, but how to serve, discern, and grow spiritually. These habits shape resilient adults who contribute meaningfully to their families, churches, and communities, wherever God places them.
For further reading on family ministry and discipleship, consider:
I contributed to each of these volumes. Another excellent resource is Family Discipleship That Works: Guiding Your Child to Know, Love, and Act Like Jesus by Brian Dembowczyk —someone I know personally and deeply respect.
Dr. Kevin M. Jones, Dean of the College of Education at Cedarville University, is passionate about equipping fathers to build resilient sons and to see teachers and leaders influence the lives of students for the glory of God. Cedarville University’s ranking in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. places Cedarville among the top five evangelical universities in America.