As the school year begins, many families feel like they’re being launched into a whirlwind of early mornings, packed lunches, sports practices, homework, and social commitments. The slower pace of summer can quickly give way to tight schedules and long to-do lists. In the midst of all this busyness, how can families stay spiritually grounded and keep faith a central part of their lives?
Here are some reflections and practical ideas to help your family navigate the back-to-school season with intentionality and faith.
1. Challenges of Busy Schedules
One of the biggest struggles families face in the fall is finding time for one another—let alone making time for God. Between school, extracurriculars, and work, the calendar can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to slip into a routine where faith becomes just one more thing to “fit in,” rather than the foundation everything else is built upon.
This season calls for a mindset shift: instead of trying to squeeze God into our schedules, we’re invited to centre our schedules around Him.
2. Setting Priorities
Every family has values—whether spoken or unspoken—that guide how they use their time. A new school year is the perfect opportunity to reassess what matters most.
Here are a few simple questions to ask as a family:
What are the non-negotiables in our week?
How can we build rest and reflection into our routine?
Are there activities we need to say “no” to in order to say a better “yes” to God and each other?
By making intentional choices, you can create space for spiritual growth, even during the busiest seasons.
3. Family Devotion Ideas
You don’t need hours of free time to disciple your kids. Faith can be nurtured in short, meaningful moments. Here are a few ideas for quick and engaging family devotions:
Breakfast Blessings: Start the day by reading a verse over breakfast and praying together.
Verse of the Week: Pick a simple Scripture to memorize as a family. Post it on the fridge or bathroom mirror.
Thankful Thursdays: During dinner, each person shares something they’re thankful for and where they saw God during the week.
Storytime Devotionals: Use a children’s devotional book before bedtime to connect God’s Word to their daily life.
Even 5–10 minutes a day can go a long way in building spiritual rhythms.
4. Encouraging Faith Conversations on the Go
Faith doesn’t have to stay at the dinner table or church pew. In fact, some of the best conversations happen in the car or while walking to practice.
Look for natural moments to talk about faith:
After school: “What was something good and something hard about today? Where do you think God was in those moments?”
In the car: “How can we pray for your friends or classmates?”
At bedtime: “What did you learn today that reminded you of a Bible story?”
These everyday conversations help kids connect their faith with real life and show them that God is present in every part of their day.
5. Sample Weekly Plan
Here’s a sample plan to get you started—a flexible template that can be adjusted to your family’s needs:
Monday – Scripture
Read and discuss the week’s memory verse.
Tuesday – Prayer
Pray for classmates, teachers, and each other during breakfast.
Wednesday – Worship
Play a worship song in the car and talk about what it means.
Thursday – Thankfulness
Share “God sightings” and what you’re thankful for at dinner.
Friday – Reflection
Ask what was hard this week and how God helped you through it.
Saturday – Serve
Do something kind for a neighbour or family friend.
Sunday – Rest
Attend church and talk about the sermon over lunch.
