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What Parents Wish Their Pastor Knew

In this video, Rob Hoskins shares what parents wish kids pastors and church leaders understood—especially that parents are the greatest influence on a child’s long-term faith, but many don’t realize it or feel confident in it.


Topics covered include:

  • Parents as the #1 influence on spiritual formation
  • Why faith conversations are often avoided at home (fear, overwhelm, uncertainty)
  • What research says parents are carrying (anxiety, mental health, finances)
  • The church’s opportunity to close the gap between Sunday and the rest of the week
  • Why Walk With exists (simple, research-based tools for real-life parent ministry)


Key takeaway for leaders

  • Parents aren’t an interruption to kids ministry—they’re your greatest discipleship asset.
  • Don’t assume parents feel confident or know the impact they have—name it and reinforce it often.
  • Many parents aren’t silent because they don’t care; they’re silent because they’re afraid of getting it wrong.
  • The church should step into that fear with practical, low-burden support that helps faith form at home.
  • Think beyond programs: focus on bridging Sunday experiences to Monday rhythms through simple tools, research, and repeatable strategies.