WHY THIS WEEKEND
The world our kids are growing up in has changed.
Smartphones, social media, AI, and rising anxiety — Generation Alpha is being formed by forces no previous generation has faced. You don't have to be an expert to lead them well. Come learn practical, hope-filled ways to shape your child's heart and faith.
For everyone
Not just for parents. Grandparents, teachers, coaches, and anyone who influences kids will find this weekend valuable.
Practical & hopeful
Real research and statistics paired with five principles you can actually put into practice at home.
Built for families
Childcare and breakfast are included, so you can be fully present and focused.
Two teaching sessions with Dr. Shelly Melia
Growing Up Alpha
Saturday, Aug 29 · 10:30 a.m.
· Included in registration
- From smartphones and social media to artificial intelligence and rising anxiety, Gen Alpha is growing up in a world no previous generation has experienced. Like missionaries who study the culture, language, and customs of the people they hope to reach, we must take that same curious posture when it comes to Reaching Generation Alpha.
This session is designed for anyone who wants to influence the next generation—not just parents. We'll explore the cultural forces shaping Generation Alpha and gain insight into what every Gen Alpha needs from the church.
Winning the Battle for Your Child's Heart
Sunday, Aug 30 · 6:30 p.m.
· Free & open to all
- Friends, teachers, coaches, social media, artificial intelligence, entertainment, and countless digital voices are competing to influence what your child believes, values, and ultimately becomes. The good news is that God has uniquely positioned parents to be the most influential voices in their children's lives. You don't have to be a parenting expert or have all the answers. Through imperfect, everyday faithfulness, God uses ordinary parents to build extraordinary influence.
Come discover five principles that can help you intentionally shape your child's heart and cultivate a faith that lasts in an increasingly complex world.
One registration covers all of it.
✦THE BOOK — a copy of Reaching Generation Alpha by Shane Pruitt & Dr. Shelly Melia
✦TWO SESSIONS with Dr. Melia
✦BREAKFAST Saturday morning
✦CHILDCARE available via registration
✦TWO SESSIONS with Dr. Melia
✦BREAKFAST Saturday morning
✦CHILDCARE available via registration
YOUR SPEAKER
Dr. Shelly Melia
Author · Professor · Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Shelly Melia is Professor of Childhood Education at Dallas Baptist University, where she serves as Associate Dean of the Graduate School of Ministry. A Licensed Professional Counselor with a research interest in grief and resilience, she served in children's and family ministry for over 25 years before joining DBU. She speaks nationally at NextGen conferences including Lifeway's ETCH, the Children's Pastor Conference, D6, and Conclave — and is co-author with Shane Pruitt of Reaching Generation Alpha.
Schedule
Weekend at a glance
Saturday
August 29, 2026
10:00 a.m. - Breakfast — Family Life Center (Building C)
10:30 a.m. - Growing Up Alpha with Dr. Shelly Melia · included in registration
12:00 p.m. - Lunch on your own with discussion topics
Sunday
August 30, 2026
5:30 p.m. - Family Q & A with Dr. Shelly Melia (The Crossing) · included in registration
6:30 p.m. - Winning the Battle for Your Child's Heart with Dr. Shelly Melia · free & open to all
Childcare available both days at FBC Sevierville via registration.
August 29, 2026
10:00 a.m. - Breakfast — Family Life Center (Building C)
10:30 a.m. - Growing Up Alpha with Dr. Shelly Melia · included in registration
12:00 p.m. - Lunch on your own with discussion topics
Sunday
August 30, 2026
5:30 p.m. - Family Q & A with Dr. Shelly Melia (The Crossing) · included in registration
6:30 p.m. - Winning the Battle for Your Child's Heart with Dr. Shelly Melia · free & open to all
Childcare available both days at FBC Sevierville via registration.
GOOD TO KNOW
QUESTIONS
Is this only for parents?
No. It's for anyone who wants to influence the next generation — parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, and volunteers are all welcome.
Is childcare available?
Yes. Childcare is available both days at FBC Sevierville and can be reserved during registration.
What does my registration include?
A copy of Reaching Generation Alpha, both sessions with Dr. Melia, Saturday breakfast, and childcare.
Do I have to pay to attend the Sunday evening session?
No — the Sunday 6:30 p.m. session, "Winning the Battle for Your Child's Heart," is free and open to everyone. Registration covers the full weekend experience and the included extras.