Introducing The Family • Life and Children • Projects • Mission • More About the Family International • The Family’s Statement of Faith
We believe that children are priceless treasures and gifts from God, and as such, it is our conviction that the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of children should be amply and competently met. We consider the care of the little ones God entrusts into our care to be a very important responsibility.
One of the highest priorities of the Family International is to ensure that our members’ children receive a high standard of care, protection, education, socialization, and recreation. Our profound respect for children—and attention to their proper care and upbringing—is an integral part of our lives.
We consider that it is the God-given responsibility of every Christian parent to impart to their children a deep appreciation, respect, and love for God and His Word, and the sacred principles contained in it. We strive to bring our children up “in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). We also believe that the marriage union of man and woman is the ideal relationship for the parenting of children and the forming of stable families.
Educational and Child-rearing Programs
The Family International is not only committed to the care and well-being of our members’ children, but we also strive to better the quality of life of all children. Members around the world engage in a variety of character-building and motivational programs for children, and also conduct child-rearing and parenting seminars for parents and educators.
Assistance to Disadvantaged Children
Family members also engage in a variety of programs around the world aimed at assisting disadvantaged children and providing them an opportunity to rise above their circumstances. These programs include educational, motivational, and character-building programs; assistance in building schools in depressed areas; material and humanitarian aid; programs in juvenile detention centers; computer training for the handicapped; programs in orphanages; medical assistance and health programs. We believe that every child deserves an opportunity for a bright future.
Character-building Products
The Family International produces a variety of devotional and educational publications, as well as audio and video materials, for children. These present character-building lessons in ways that appeal to children. (See our character-building products.)
Education
Family parents and communities are responsible to ensure that each child receives a proper education, which prepares them for the future career of their choosing. The Family International has specialized in early childhood education, and has produced a numerous in-house publications, books, Christian books, videos, and teaching aids for this level of education.
Homeschooling has been a preferred method of education of full-time Family members for the past 30 years. Members strive to provide their children with positive, home-study learning environments that encourage each child to discover and develop his or her unique gifts, talents, and abilities. Character-building, decision-making, problem-solving, and communication are also a significant part of their education.
We aim to provide our children with a multifaceted education, which includes a full range of academic subjects, Christian and ministerial instruction, practical vocational training, physical and social skills. The children’s scholastic curricula combine a variety of teaching aids, including registered homeschooling curricula, videos, and computer programs.
Coming of Age
Children of Family members raised in missionary communities are taught their parents’ religious beliefs, and participate at times in their parents’ mission work. As the children come of age, many choose other lifestyles and opt for secular careers rather than that of a missionary.
The Family International upholds the right of young adults to self-determination. It is our hope that our children will grow up to serve God and others. However, as they reach adulthood, they are free to pursue the career of their choice. Our sincere desire is that all children raised in our communities will go on to lead fulfilling lives and progress in the new goals they set for themselves.