So, you’re ready to start mentoring sessions with your kids. You’ve set aside time, printed the mentoring sheets, and are committed to making it work. Now, the big question: What exactly do you do during a mentoring session?

Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned our approach to make these one-on-one meetings meaningful, effective, and something our kids actually look forward to. Here’s how you can do the same!

The Flow of a Mentoring Session

We follow a structured format that keeps things positive, focused, and productive. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Start with Exciting News

Kick things off by asking, “What’s something exciting that happened this week?” This is their chance to tell you something they’re really proud of or that made them happy. It could be a small win, a fun moment with friends, or even a new discovery. This sets a positive tone and helps your child feel heard.

2. Review Past Goals

Before setting new goals, check in on the ones from last week. Ask:

• How did it go?
• What worked well?
• What was challenging?

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about growth and learning.

3. Set New Goals

Using the mentoring sheet, help your child set three new goals for the week:

• Spiritual Goal (e.g., pray daily, memorize a scripture, show more kindness to siblings)
• Physical Goal (e.g., do 10 push-ups each day, go outside for an hour, try a new healthy food)
• Educational Goal → Skill Learning Goal in the Summer (e.g., read a book, complete a project, practice an instrument, learn to cook a meal)

💡 During summer months, when school isn’t in session, we swap the educational goal for learning a new skill. This keeps kids engaged and growing, even outside the classroom.

4. Discuss Any Challenges

Ask if they’re struggling with anything—school, friends, chores, personal worries. Sometimes, this leads to deep conversations. Other times, it’s just a quick check-in. Either way, they know you’re there to help.

5. Talk About Their Date with Mom/Dad

Since we do one-on-one dates with our kids each month, this part of the sheet comes up once every six months for each child. We talk about when their next date is and what they’d love to do. This builds excitement and gives them something special to look forward to.

6. Commit to Something Fun

Wrap up by asking, “How do you plan to have fun this week?” This reinforces that life isn’t just about work—it’s about joy, too.

Why This Works

• It gives kids ownership – They aren’t being told what to do; they’re deciding their own goals.
• It fosters accountability – Regular check-ins help them stay on track.
• It strengthens relationships – They know you genuinely care about their growth and happiness.

Ready to start mentoring your kids? Download the Mentoring Session Sheets and make these powerful conversations a weekly tradition in your home.

Download the Mentoring Sheets Here!

Related Posts on Self-Government & Parenting

➡ A Self-Government Approach to Restoring Peace & Order in Your Home
➡ The Power of Calm Leadership
➡ What to do When Kids Test Boundaries.

Stay tuned for the next post: Common Pitfalls in Mentoring (and How to Avoid Them)!