My children enjoyed reading the story Green Eggs and Ham. This picture book is referenced in movies, sitcoms, jokes, and general conversations because of its classic story line. Many can quote sections of this book, including the little rhyme: I do not like green eggs and ham.I do not like them, Sam-I-am. Prior to our 11-year ...
Impressing on Children
Redefining Parenthood: Focusing on Purpose, Not Just Character
I love asking parents, "What do you desire for your child?" I frequently hear words like happiness, generosity, and courage. Thinking about these responses, I find this quote from my pastor so interesting. "One of the things that hinders us from living courageously is a lack of purpose and calling." I would wager that happiness and ...
How Do I Talk to My Child About Sex?
If there is any place in my parenting that requires grace, it is in the conversations about sex that I have with my children. I've said the wrong things at the wrong time. I've jumped to conclusions. I've missed opportunities. Why? Because it feels hard talking to our kids about sensitive topics. But as parents, we must be the ones to engage in ...
5 Ways to Help Kids Who Have Big Emotions
I said to a friend, "I wasn't prepared for the big emotions of a preschool-aged girl. What are the teenage years going to be like?". I remember looking at Sweet Pea in her small, but mighty form wondering what I had done wrong! Praise God that with guidance and prayer she learned how to navigate the highs and lows of emotions instead of being ...
9 Ways to Cultivate a Heart for Missions in Your Child
We travel in a 10-mile radius every single day. Every once in a while, we venture out for a vacation and holiday before we quickly jump back into the safety of our little circle. But I want more for my kids. I want them to understand that there is a great big world out there filled with 8 billion uniquely created people. Eight ...
How to Build a God-Centered Family
If you are reading this blog it is safe to bet that you desire to lead children in a way that will turn their hearts toward Christ. But in this poisonous culture and confusing world, is building a God-centered family even possible? Is there any hope for families to make their voices louder than the world's? How can parents fight back the issues ...
It’s Here: 5 Year Curriculum, 2nd Edition
Three years ago I finished the 4 Year Curriculum, 2nd Edition. The response was amazing, and it continues to be the chosen curriculum by many to prepare their children and students for kindergarten. Next up for a complete remodel was the 5 Year Curriculum. Thinking I could finish it that same year, God had a little different timing. But the ...
How to Engage Your Child in Meaningful Conversation
As mommas we spend much of our days talking to our kids. We tell them to come to the table, to clean up their toys, get dressed, and so on. There are so many opportunities throughout the day to communicate instructions. But what about conversations? Not the one-sided commands that we have to issue. I’m talking about the ...
What is Worship?
A few days ago, I started my quiet time needing God to show up in a big way. We are in a brutal parenting stretch, and I needed truth to get me through the new day. God led me to Isaiah 25:1. Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name,for in perfect faithfulness you have done ...
How to Teach a Child about Sadness
Teaching children about emotions is an important part of preschool and elementary learning; thus, it is a large part of the ABCJesusLovesMe Preschool Curriculum. While emotions, like joy and excitement, are fun to teach, covering a negative-feeling emotion like sadness can be intimidating. But by naming the emotion and talking about the feelings ...