I grew up in an allowance-giving household. For $3 a week, I was in charge of feeding the dog, setting the table, and cleaning my half of the room I shared with my sister. I took my job seriously, and … Continue reading
Most statistics on pornography say the average age of a child’s first exposure is 11 years old. New research from the security technology company Bitdefender has reported that children under the age of 10 now account for 22 percent of … Continue reading
In my years as a youth minister, I have seen way too many mothers fail to control everything about their children. I’ve known mothers who choose their teens’ clothes, who email teachers to argue about their children’s failing grades, who … Continue reading
Another negative pregnancy test. Another period. Another cycle begins. Another hope for a child ends. I mourn my loss quietly in the bathroom, stifling my sobs so I don’t wake up my husband in the next room. When I am … Continue reading
My son is incredibly sensitive. It’s a beautiful trait, but his sensitivity can make life very difficult at times. He’s easily hurt, whines quite a bit, and breaks down into tears at least once a day. But his sensitivity also … Continue reading
My husband likes to tell the story of the first time he realized that getting a time-out was just an opportunity to play with his toys in the privacy of his own room. Getting punished just didn’t seem so bad … Continue reading
To all the friends I’ve lost since becoming a mother: I’m sorry. I’m sorry I wasn’t a better friend. I’m sorry I haven’t reached out to you in months or even years. I’m sorry we don’t have the relationship we … Continue reading
“What are you going to do when your kids start school?” Have you ever gotten that question? I’ve heard it from friends, family, and even complete strangers. Most mean well when they ask, but sometimes I get the sense that … Continue reading
Baby girl, you are so incredibly beautiful. So delicate. So beautifully breakable. And because of that, I am afraid for you. The world broke me. Like so many beautiful things in this world, I was delicate. And like so many … Continue reading
In the midst of this coronavirus crisis, I have seen some pretty amazing, Pinterest-worthy ideas for games and activities to entertain children during a lockdown. Mazes that zigzag through entire houses, art and science projects that would make any teacher … Continue reading
