I love my children. I have no doubt that you love yours as well. It is simply human nature to love these little people, and to want the very best things in life for them. But most of us already know that loving our child and wanting the best for them is not the end … Continue reading How can I be a good parent?
Most kids today have access to abundant technology. They have tablets in preschool, Chromebooks in elementary school, and by middle school, many have their first (or second, or third…) smartphone. Does that mean it’s okay? There are risks and benefits with every piece of technology. A smartphone has the incredible ability to connect us with … Continue reading When is my child old enough to get a smartphone?
Is there any title that would be more easily agreed upon? We are all called to protect children from abuse. Of course, we are each called to protect all peoplefrom abuse – women, men, children, adults. But children are in a uniquely vulnerable position. They rely upon adults to care for them, and their knowledge and awareness … Continue reading Protecting children from abuse
Earlier this year, we posted a blog asking: Do you know what your child is doing on their phone? Many parents want to avoid the sad reality on how smartphones and social media are impacting our kids. It is a scary question to ask, but who promised that raising a child would be easy? (They … Continue reading What would your child’s youth pastor say they are most concerned about for your child?
If you’re like most parents, you may have a vague idea of what your child is doing on that smartphone you gave them for Christmas. But let’s face it. Today’s middle and high schoolers are “digital natives,” and they will always know more about their phones than their parents. That doesn’t mean you have to … Continue reading Do you know what your child is doing on their phone?
The two most obvious, frequent, and fun elements of the Halloween holiday also tend to capture most of our attention: costumes and candy. Even teenagers (and let’s be honest, adults too) will pull out a mask or don some sort of a costume in order to enjoy a bag full of sweets at the end … Continue reading Parenting through the Sugar Rush of Halloween (or any other holiday)
We’ve all seen the child in the grocery store having a meltdown in the cereal aisle. We’ve all heard of teenagers sneaking out at night for a joyride. Even the most mild-mannered child won't always have the perfect manners. And boy, can this behavior be stressful for their parents! Whether your child is two or … Continue reading How do I stop my child from misbehaving?
If you know a teenager, you may be familiar with the reality of how often peer interactions can create… drama. (Or, as my husband the high school teacher likes to say… dram-ma.) At some level, drama is inevitable. Humans are made to be in relationship with each other. Since humans are imperfect, these relationships are also … Continue reading Managing the Back-to-School Drama
We are in the full swing of summertime. It’s not South Carolina without the heat and the sunshine. And here in Florence, we’re close enough to enjoy a few trips to the beach as well. The temperature may make us feel like we’re melting, but I hope that in reality you and your family are … Continue reading Four strategies for a thriving summer
This morning, I did a google search on “why encourage your kids” and the top results were, frankly, discouraging. Each result each focused on how to encourage your kids into specific actions or activities. What about encouraging them simply as a person? 'Ways to encourage your kids to love learning.' 'How to encourage your kids … Continue reading Six ways to encourage your kids today