If you are an extrovert, fathering an introvert can sometimes feel like fathering an alien. But when dads pressure their introverts to act like extroverts, they produce frustrated, demoralized children. That’s one reason God exhorts fathers, “Don’t stir up anger” in your kids (Eph. 6:4). Let your child’s God-given introversion shine through. Be like Jacob, who blessed each of his children with a custom-tailored, “suitable blessing” (Gen. 49:28).

Blessing an Introverted Child

Here are some guidelines that can help a dad bless his introverted child: (1) Allow your child to observe an activity before pressuring him/her to participate. Don’t push your introvert to the front of the line. (2) Celebrate their creative, imaginative world. Ask about their books. Invite conversation over their drawings. Offer one-on-one daddy/child dates. (3) Don’t nag about friendships. Introverted kids are happy with one or two close friends. Never label your child as shy, introverted, or a loner. And, of course (4) faithfully pray for your child to use his/her gifts to advance God’s kingdom.

Bottom Line

If you have an introverted child, realize that God gave you a great kid, and learn to work with his/her interests and strengths.