Gifts we want to give our children

We often tell our kids we’re on their team. Every choice we make is considering them. These are the gifts we’re working to give them — not wrapped in paper, but built into their lives.

Gift 01

The ability to create music

Music is a language of its own. We want our kids to know how to make it — not just listen to it.

Gift 02

A strong work ethic and ambition

We want them to show up, to try hard, and to care about doing things well — whatever they put their hands to.

Gift 03

The ability to communicate in more than one language

Language opens doors — to people, cultures, and places. Exposure to more than one is a gift that keeps giving.

Gift 04

Wisdom in using financial resources

Not just how to earn money, but how to steward it well — with generosity, patience, and good judgment.

Gift 05

A sense of adventure and love for beautiful places

We want them to get outside, explore, and develop a real sense of wonder for the world God made.

Gift 06

A desire to love God and love others

Above everything else on this list, this is what we want their lives to be shaped by.

Gift 07

The ability to think well

Discerning truth from deception — especially in news, media, and the arts. We want them to be thoughtful, not just informed.

Gift 08

Self-discipline in screens, food, and sleep

The basics matter more than we often admit. We’re trying to help them build healthy rhythms that will serve them for life.

Gift 09

Strong family roots and ties

We want them to know where they come from and to feel deeply connected — to us, to each other, and to the story they’re part of.

Gift 10

The opportunity to study what they love

We want to provide for them the opportunity to learn something they would love to do for a vocation that has meaning and blesses the world they live in, this often includes college and we want them prepared for that.

Gift 11

A love for God’s Word

Not just knowing it’s important, but actually wanting to read it. We hope it becomes something they reach for daily, on their own.

Gift 12

Independence and basic life skills

Cooking, cleaning, sewing, gardening, building — and more. We want them to be capable, confident people who can take care of themselves and others.

This list isn’t exhaustive — but it reflects what we hope to pass on. We are on our kids’ team, every single day.