Help! Homework is a constant battle in our home

Help! Homework is a constant battle in our home

Dear Mattsons,  Homework is a battle. Every night my daughter gets easily frustrated and calls herself stupid. One or both of us frequently ends up…


Six truths about adoption

Six truths about adoption

As the late afternoon traffic began to build, my kids and I sat quietly in the car on the way home from piano lessons. Out of the blue, my…


Five things to remember as your kids start school

Five things to remember as your kids start school

With the school year kicking off around the country, parents and children are headed into a full-blown busy season that comes with stress, worries,…


How to be a godly advocate for your child

How to be a godly advocate for your child

The school year is in full swing. Sunny days at the beach and summer camps are behind us, and in the blink of an eye our babies are waking up early,…


Six things not to say to someone struggling with suicidal thoughts

Six things not to say to someone struggling with suicidal thoughts

I was flying home on a small commuter jet with two seats on either side of the aisle. I was by the window. A mother sat next to me and her two sons…


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…


Three prayers to pray over your child as they begin a new school year

Three prayers to pray over your child as they begin a new school year

The school year is right around the corner and that can bring a wave of emotions. Whether you’re excited and eager or stressed and anxious about what…


A prayer for the first day of school

A prayer for the first day of school

Embarking on a new school year can bring a swirl of emotions for both kids and parents.  Whether you’re hiding your tears for your little one's first…


What parents should know about senior year

What parents should know about senior year

“This is the beginning of the end.”  I remember thinking this thought the entire summer before my senior year. I was terrified and did not feel ready…