Editor's Note: The following is a report on the practical applications of Mary E. DeMuth's book, Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture, (Harvest House Publishers, 2007).

Young people in the postmodern culture your kids are growing up in approach truth in completely different ways from the culture you knew as a child. It’s crucial to understand that culture so you can help your kids live out their faith successfully within it.

Here’s how you can help your kids thrive in the postmodern culture:

Get to know the postmodern worldview. People with a postmodern worldview don’t just accept facts and logic at face value; they ask lots of questions. They view truth as subjective rather than objective, and believe that perspective determines much of reality. They highly value community and authenticity. They often use stories to discover more about the world. Some reinterpret Scripture or discount its validity to their lives. They don’t usually come to faith through rational decisions; they grow their relationships with others.

Teach your kids to focus on Jesus above all else. Let your kids know that, even though postmodernism says that life is all about them, it’s really all about Jesus. Help them grasp the glory of obedience to Jesus, regardless of what the world around them may say.

Help your kids fully engage with the world. Don’t let fear of the world’s evils hold you back from answering Jesus’ call to send your kids out into it as light in the darkness. Your kids’ faith can grow stronger if they learn how to discern sin, love the sinner, resist temptation, and represent Jesus to everyone they encounter.

Share conversations with your kids. Help your kids learn how to discuss whatever is on their minds. Invite them to talk with you about all kinds of topics at all times and in all situations. Determine to use kind and encouraging words with them. Take the time to listen carefully to them. Model what openness looks like so your children can open up to you. Talk openly with them about your thoughts and feelings (in age-appropriate ways), so they’ll feel safe to share their own thoughts and feelings. Whenever your words cause a breach in your relationships with your kids, ask them to forgive you, and you’ll rebuild crucial trust. Make sure your conversations are purposeful – intentionally focused on your children and on something you hope to discuss together.