2026 January- The Stag: A Picture of Dignity

Month 1 Parent Guide- Introducing Dignity

Purpose for Parents

This conversation is not about getting the “right answers.”
It is about helping your children notice, name, and imagine dignity before we ever define it.

Take your time. Let silence happen. Wonder together.

This is just information. YOU can decide how to weave it into your family rhythms- maybe its part of your dinner time or devotions or even part of bedtime. If this kind of thing is brand new to you, it might feel awkward at first, that’s ok! I always tell myself “Don’t worry, Be crappy!” It’s not your job to move your children’s hearts or force understanding; that’s God’s job. You only have to be obedient in giving them the tools, language, and TRUTH!

Here’s a link to some resources! I’ll keep adding as we go :-)

WOTY Resources

Step 1: Begin with the Image

Before reading anything, show your children the picture of the stag.

Give them a moment to really look.

Ask:

  • What do you notice about the stag?

  • How is he standing?

  • Does he look rushed or calm?

  • What do you think he’s good at?

  • What do you think might make him vulnerable or weak?

If your children are older, you might also ask:

  • Does he look like he’s trying to prove anything?

  • How do you think he knows where he belongs?

There are no wrong answers here. This step is about observation, not interpretation.

Step 2: Read the Story Together

The Stag Who Knew Where He Belonged

In the early morning, before the forest stirred, the stag stood at the edge of the trees.

Mist hung low around his legs. Birds were just beginning to call.
He did not rush.
He did not hide.
He did not announce himself.

He simply stood.

The stag did not wonder whether he belonged there.
He did not compare himself to the others in the forest.
He did not feel the need to prove his strength.

He knew who he was.
He knew where he belonged.
And because of that, he knew how to carry himself.

This is dignity.

Step 3: Define the Word Dignity

You can say something like:

“This year, our family is learning about a word called dignity.
Dignity means knowing who you are, where you belong, and how to carry yourself.”

Say it slowly. You may want to repeat it more than once.

Then ask:

  • What part of that feels easy to understand?

  • What part feels confusing?

  • Which part do you think is hardest for people?

Step 4: Link to the Rooted Foundations

The Four Truths

At Rooted, we talk about some truths that help us stay grounded, especially when life feels confusing or hard. Dignity grows best when we remember what is already true about us.

Get a copy of the Four Truths to print

  1. I am wonderfully and beautifully made for glory AND adversity because it is written in God’s word.

  2. My family loves me no matter what.

  3. I can try anything because if I fail I know I can learn.

  4. I am a sinner saved by grace and created in the image of God for good plans that He has already prepared for me

Recite these truths and encourage everyone in your family to memorize them!

After sharing the truths, ask:

  • Which truth feels easiest to forget?

  • Which truth helps us remember who we are?

  • How do these truths help us live with dignity?

Step 5: Knowing What Dignity Is

Dignity is often misunderstood, so it helps to be very clear.

You can say:

“Dignity is not being perfect.
It’s not being better than others.
And it’s not pretending we’re okay when we’re not.”

Then share:

Dignity is something quieter and stronger.
It is living from the inside out.

Dignity means:

  • I don’t have to prove myself.

  • I don’t have to shrink myself.

  • I can be honest about who I am.

Ask:

  • When do you feel like you have to prove yourself?

  • When do you feel like you want to hide?

  • What helps you come back to who you really are?

Step 6: What Dignity Looks Like and Sounds Like (For Kids)

Help your children see dignity in everyday life.

Dignity can look like:

  • Standing up straight, even when nervous

  • Taking responsibility without blaming

  • Staying calm when others are loud

  • Asking for help without shame

  • Trying again after a mistake

Dignity can sound like:

  • “I made a mistake.”

  • “I need help.”

  • “I don’t agree, but I can be kind.”

  • “I’m still learning.”

  • “That didn’t change who I am.”

You might ask:

  • Which one of these feels hardest?

  • Which one do you want to practice this month?

Step 7: Anchor in Scripture

Read the verse slowly, maybe more than once.

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
— Colossians 3:12

Then point out:

Before God tells us how to live, He reminds us who we are:

  • chosen

  • holy

  • dearly loved

You might say:

“We don’t act with dignity so that God will love us.
We act with dignity because we already belong.”

Ask:

  • Which word stands out to you?

  • What would it look like to ‘put on’ one of these this week?

Rebecca Maglischo