Raising kids who do the dishes…without being asked

Raising kids who do the dishes…without being asked

Wait. Did you read that title correctly? Is this simple little blog post actually going to give you a step-by-step formula for getting your kids to…


Becoming a peaceful parent

Becoming a peaceful parent

I could hear the kids squabbling again and I found myself sighing in frustration. What in the world could they be arguing about now?  I was in the…


5 ways to raise girls with godly character

5 ways to raise girls with godly character

As our culture becomes increasingly secular and Judeo-Christian values fade into the sunset, it’s challenging—and scary—to raise girls in today’s…


3 Reasons your kid might be treating you disrespectfully

Three reasons your kid might be treating you disrespectfully

I receive some version of this email or message often… Dear Monica… My son is so rude to me… My daughter is disrespectful… My kids don’t listen… My…


Morning affirmations for school drop-off

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…


3 Character qualities that set your kids up for success

3 Character qualities that set your kids up for success

Like most well-intentioned parents, Dave and I have high hopes for our boys.  We want our sons to grow up to be good men, productive, stable, and…


How to guide your family through life’s hard things

Life is full of hard things, with each person’s experiences covering a vast expanse of difficult encounters.  When we are young, hard things often…


Teaching Gratitude

How many moms and dads will be telling their children to lie and say “thank you” when Grandma puts her famous green bean casserole on their plates…