Words Kids Need to Hear: To Help Them Be Who God Made Them to Be

by David Staal

Book Overview

Words matter. Words can build up, or words can tear down. As parents and church leaders, do we use our words well? Words Kids Need to Hear offers compelling, yet simple ways to build up the hearts of children through meaningful and well-chosen words. What children hear from adults they trust makes a significant impact--now and for years to come.Words Kids Need to Hear offers an easy-to-follow learning path. Each of the seven chapters focuses on a...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0310280982
• ISBN13: 9780310280989
• Release Date: April 2008
• Publisher: Zondervan
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.5" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

Well worth the time

A person could easily read this book in a single day, especially in light of all the good humor and engaging stories it includes. But if that same person puts the advice in this book into practice, that could have implications for a lifetime. What fortunate kids whose parents read this book! (And how equally applicable the advice would be for spouses, friends, employees and others we interact with.)

Words To Shape A Child's World

As a pastor I know the power of a word fitly spoken; as a father I sometimes forget to practice what I preach at home. David Staal's book is a powerful reminder that my calling as father to two sons is greater than my pulpit ministry. In short, but content-packed chapters, Staal equips parents with a toolbox of words that help build up a child's character, self-esteem and trust. The seven phrases he offers up are simple to say, yet require a depth of commitment to make them more than mere words. Immensely practical, I couldn't wait to start applying them with my children even before I finished the book. In addition the three appendices, offer a roadmap for making these words a part of your daily discourse with your kids. The last appendix - a workshop guide, will probably find a place in our Fall education calendar. A great read and a useful tool for all who love children.

For anyone who has ever had an imperfect parent

I found myself welling up with tears as I read this. While it's written in a straight-forward and engaging manner and it's not overly sentimental, my mind flew back to conversations with my mom. These conversations transformed me into an adult who never knew what it felt like to have someone believe in her. Any apologies were made with a touch of sarcasm. And my mom really was a wonderful mother. She heard hurtful words when she grew up and, as she often reminded me later, no one hands you a manual when you leave the hospital with your baby. She learned from her mother who had "Spare the rod and spoil the child" embroidered on throw pillows. How would words like "I believe in you" and "I treasure you" have shaped me had I heard them when I was a little girl? This book has brought a degree of healing to the relationship between my mother and me. While I've purchased copies of Words Kids Need to Hear to give to friends who have younger children, this book is not just for parents--it's for anyone who has ever had a parent.

Right words at the right time

Sometimes the right words can make all the difference in the world. In "Words Kids Need to Hear," author David Staal gives seven words or phrases that will help children to not only grow, but also to be a blessing to others. There are no magic formulas, but there are plenty of stories, along with cautions about going overboard. And in a nice touch, each chapter ends with a Scripture passage where God is sharing the same sentiment with us, His children. As I read this, I found times myself alternating between pride and chagrin at the words I use with my children and the generally positive words I heard growing up. It struck me that you don't have to stretch this concept too far to be able to utilize these wise words in other relationships. What spouse or business associate wouldn't benefit from knowing "I believe in you" or "I'm sorry, please forgive me"? A really easy read that would benefit parents to read - more than once.

For everyone

Well written, easy read, simple/practical truths. In addition to words kids need to hear, it is applicable to adults as well. I bought multiple copies as gifts for family and friends.