As Christian parents, we are called to nurture and guide our children in the ways of the Lord. However, there are times when a child’s behavioral issues may become so severe that they require more intensive intervention and support than can be provided at home. In such cases, a therapeutic boarding school rooted in Christian principles may be a viable option to consider.
There are several indicators that boarding school could benefit a child struggling with behavioral problems (situations where a therapeutic boarding school or residential treatment center may help are indicated with a T):
- Inability to function in a traditional home and school environment
- Ongoing academic failure or refusal to attend school
- Unwillingness to take any accountability or work to improve their actions
- Persistent defiance, aggression, or violent outbursts that put the child or others at risk (T)
- Diagnosed mental health conditions that require round-the-clock supervision (T)
- The child consistently puts themselves or family members at significant risk, or is engaged in risky behavior that poses an immediate threat (T)
- The child’s behavior is destroying family life (T)
- Other interventions have had limited effectiveness (T)
A Christ-centered boarding school can offer several advantages (advantages a therapeutic boarding school or residential treatment center may offer are indicated with a T) :
- Removal from negative influences and temptations at home
- Structured environment with clear expectations and consequences
- Academic support to get back on track educationally
- Emphasis on character development and spiritual growth
- Removal from potentially destructive relationships with peers and media
- Breaking destructive cycles/dysfunction within the family (T)
- Family workshops or mediated sessions to help both parties establish new ways of relating (T)
- Stop negative behavior patterns and replace with with constructive behaviors (T)
- Individual and group therapy to address underlying issues (T)
The decision to send a child to boarding school should not be made lightly. It requires much prayer, counsel from trusted pastors and Christian therapists, and family discussion. Instead of judging yourself or the situation, remember that God is always at work and can use various means to bring healing and transformation. A season away at a boarding school may be what’s needed to set your child on a path toward emotional and spiritual wholeness.
Chew On This:
What are some ways you could help prepare your child for boarding school, if boarding school is a good fit for them?
