Be Mindful of Children from Single Parent Homes

Uplifting family values should be an important part of every Sunday school. But, at the same time, there are a few things that Sunday school teachers and leaders should keep in mind. One thing to keep in mind at this time of the year is your planning for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Although Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are not religious holidays, many Sunday schools put a great amount of emphasis on the days with special programs by the children. There’s certainly nothing wrong with wanting to honor the mothers and fathers of your congregation, but, at the same time, there is something important that you should keep in mind. Today an ever-increasing number of children come from single parent homes, homes where they do not have either a father or a mother. If you have special Mother’s Day or Father’s Day activities in your Sunday school, please be considerate of the children from these non-traditional families. Sunday school should be supportive of these children, not make them feel left out, embarrassed or different because they do not have a father or mother to honor.

(This article appeared in the "Spring, 1993" issue of "The Herald.")