Four tips for helping kids navigate friendship drama

Four tips for helping kids navigate friendship drama

“Mama, I had a problem with my friends at school today.” My daughter’s eyes flooded with tears. I pulled her onto the couch beside me, and she…


Better questions than, “How was your day at school?”

Better questions than, “How was your day at school?”

Has this scenario played out for you before? Parent: “How was your day?” Kid: “Good . . .” (silence) Not the back and forth banter you were looking…


Why judging other moms diminishes the power of the cross

Why judging other moms diminishes the power of the cross

The minivan sliding door of shame—it’s a thing. You know, when you drop off your kids at school with all humanity watching, the door slides open and…


Four ways to teach kids the power of words

Four ways to teach kids the incredible power of words

Our words have a profound impact on those around us. Whether we’re using our speech to build others up or pull them down, what comes out of our…


Why we don't say

Why we don't say "best friend"

Language is one of my favorite subjects to study and think about. I’ve always told my students that whoever owns the dictionary owns the culture. It…


Three truths about Christian community

Three truths about Christian community

The desire to connect with others consumed my thoughts as I played with my toddler at our apartment’s playground late one summer afternoon. My…


How do I make friends as an adult?

How do I make friends as an adult?

We believe friendship matters, right? But how do we make friends as adults? It’s not as easy as it was in elementary school, high school, or even in…


Twenty Things the Parents of Mentally Strong Kids Never Do

Morning affirmations for school drop-off

How do mornings usually go in your house? For the typical household, it’s a mad dash to get everyone out of bed, fed, dressed, out of the house with…


4 ways kids can show kindness at school

4 ways kids can show kindness at school

Back to school time brings such a buzz of energy! Weekly rhythms and routines are taking shape, kids are excited about all of the things they’re…