Education A la Carte

Every parent wants the best possible education for their child--one that fits their child's unique needs, challenges them to grow, and equips them to succeed. But there are so many options--public, private, and charter schools, plus homeschooling and online schooling--that it's easy for parents to feel overwhelmed and, well, undereducated about the choices. What's more, while one schooling option may be right for one child, it may be challenging for another. And sometimes the same child will thrive in one environment in elementary school but falter in that same environment in middle school.

What's a parent to do?

Parenting expert and longtime educator Dr. Kevin Leman can help. In this practical book, he clearly explains the pros and cons of various schooling options so that parents can make an informed choice about the kind of education that will help their child thrive. He shows parents how to stay involved and engaged with their child's education every step of the way, knowing that the choices they make about school now will reverberate long into that child's future.

My thoughts: I always enjoy the books I pick up by Dr. Leman, since they get me to think about other options, even if I don't always agree with what he has to say. With this book, I found it interesting to read how birth order can affect the type of student (though, it isn't limited to birth order) your child can be. I also like how he presented the different types of education for parents to review, just to know that one isn't limited to one specific type. I thought this book was informative and interesting! A great resource for parents wanting to explore different options.
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

The Dream-Centered Life

Wake Up to Bigger Dreams!

Have you stopped pursuing the life of your dreams? Did someone or something steal the passions that made your heart beat fast?

It's possible--for the first time or once again--to become that wide-eyed, visionary dream-chaser!

It starts by realizing that God has specific, amazing plans for you. Once you discover what drives you at the deepest level, you'll overcome any barrier that stands between you and your new reality.

The Dream-Centered Life isn't about wishful thinking. It offers practical ways to be an effective dreamer, no matter where your starting point. Through personal experiences and fresh insights from world-class dreamers, Luke Barnett discusses these and other topics:

- Where do dreams begin?
- Characteristics of a dreamer
- Habits of dreamers
- Dream lifters
- Dream busters
- Dreaming with confidence

Are you ready to discover--and live--your God-sized dream?

My thoughts: I needed this book! I love how it offers encouragement to help the reader hone their dreams and go after the ones that are from God's own heart. I think that this is a great book to read for personal dreams, but I also felt like it was a wonderful book to read as a parent, to help one encourage the dreams in your children.
I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Becoming a Present Parent

With Becoming a Present Parent, you’ll find a wealth of ideas to build connections with your children and bind your hearts together. You will find out eight ways how we as parents “check out” of our children’s lives and what that cost is to their growth. Learn how to master six important skills to help you “check in” and be engaged. Understand how to be fully present and utilize touchpoints in the smallest moments to create lasting fulfillment in your family relationships.

My thoughts: I feel like this book came along at the perfect time for me, since my oldest is getting to the point where she is independent enough for me to forget just how much she still needs me.;) This book was a great reminder of the ways I can improve being a more present parent, giving me practical and simple ways to connect with my children throughout the day. I thought this book was well written and the stories spot on!
I received this book through Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

The Joy of Letting Go

Whether your kids are in kindergarten or college, learn how to prepare your hearts for your kids’ independence with Vicki Caruana’s The Joy of Letting Go. The 52 devotional readings within shine a light on all the times readers have loosened their grip on their children and encourages them to continue to let go in life-giving ways. Written by a parenting and education expert, The Joy of Letting Go will comfort and inspire parents in all seasons of parenting.

My thoughts: Even though I have a ways to go before I have to let my little ones fly from the nest, I still found this book immensely enjoyable! It is an excellent devotional for parents at all stages, since a lot of the topics are applicable to younger children on up. I love the reminders of the end goal for parenting, preparing your child to one day no longer need you. Vicki does a wonderful job of engaging readers with humor, while dealing with some weighty topics. If you are a parent, I highly recommend this one!
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Growing Up Social

Is technology drawing your family together or driving it apart?

In this digital age, children are spending more and more time interacting with a screen and less time playing outside, reading a book, or interacting with a parent. While technology can benefit us, it can also erode a sense of togetherness and hinder a child’s emotional and social development.

In Growing Up Social, Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane will empower you with the tools you need to make positive changes . . . starting today. Through stories, wit, and wisdom, you’ll discover how to take back your home from an overdependence on screens. Plus, you’ll learn to teach the five A+ skills that every child needs to master: affection, appreciation, anger management, apology, and attention.

Learn how to:

Replace mindless screen time with meaningful family time
Establish simple boundaries that make a huge difference
Discover what's working for families that have become screen savvy
Equip your child to be relationally rich in a digital world
Learn healthy ways to occupy your child while you get things done

Now is the time to equip your child with a healthy involvement with screens and an even healthier involvement with others.

My thoughts: So much has changed on the technology front even since I was growing up (which doesn't seem like it was that long ago! lol). With the technology boom has come new problems and the dilemma of how to deal with kids and all the screen time they get. How do we, as parents, figure out a good balance for them? Gary and Arlene do a wonderful job of showing parents how to help their kids balance technology and living life, along with how to be screen savvy (something that each parent needs to keep up with their kid!). This is an excellent book for all parents!
I received this book from Moody in exchange for my honest review.

Things I wish I'd known before we became parents

Dr. Gary Chapman has helped millions prepare for marriage.
Now he helps you prepare for kids.

Things I Wish I’d Known Before We Became Parents has one goal: prepare you to raise young children.

Dr. Gary Chapman—longtime relationship expert and author of the #1 New York Times bestseller The 5 Love Languages—teams up with Dr. Shannon Warden—professor of counseling, wife, and mother of three—to give young parents a book that is practical, informed, and enjoyable.

Together they share what they wished they had known before having kids. For example: children affect your time, your money, and your marriage—and that's just the beginning. With warmth and humor they offer practical advice on everything from potty training to scheduling, apologizing to your child, and keeping your marriage strong… all the while celebrating the great joy that children bring.

From the Preface: "Our desire is to share our own experiences, as well as what we have learned through the years, as we have counseled hundreds of parents. We encourage you to read this book before the baby comes, and then refer to its chapters again as you experience the joys and challenges of rearing children." — Dr. Gary Chapman

My thoughts: I wish I had read this book before I became a parent, since I think it would of helped me prepare a bit more for the changes that you don't even think about happening when you become a parent. Of course, I had heard some of the advise that Gary Chapman gives, and it still isn't the same as experiencing it for yourself. I think that one of the biggest changes, at least recently, is noticing just how different my two are. I know that no two children are alike (something that is covered in this book), but I guess I just assumed that they would be more similar then they are.;)
I love all the examples and information in this book! It makes a great addition to one's library, whether you are hoping to become a parent or already have children. It would make a great baby shower present.;)
I received this book from Moody in exchange for my honest review.

10 Myths of Teen Dating

Few topics are more difficult for parents to discuss with their daughters than dating and relationships. Due to their lack of knowledge about the world their teens face coupled with the scant dating information they received as teens, many parents feel ill-equiped to guide their daughters through the minefield that is teen dating.

In The 10 Myths of Teen Dating, this father and daughter team combines the latest scientific research with poignant, personal stories to help parents engage their daughters in wise conversations. Weaving in solid biblical truths with practical application and discussion starters, Daniel and Jacquelyn seek to equip parents to teach their daughters how to date for today … and tomorrow.

My thoughts: If you have a young daughter, then this book is for you! I love that the myths were compiled by a father/daughter team, both of whom teach, so they have a front row seat to watching teen dating in the present time. Really though, a lot of these myths are great for girls of all ages who are in the dating scene.
I like that they not only approach it from a dad's point of view, but also offering insight for the single mother too.
This book is an excellent resource to help your daughter develop her interests and character outside of dating, so as to help her make smart decisions when dating and to realize that she is worth so much more than whether or not she has a boyfriend.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Discipline that connects with your child's heart

A Powerful Approach to Bringing God's Grace to Kids
Did you know that the way we deal (or don't deal) with our kids' misbehavior shapes their beliefs about themselves, the world, and God? Therefore it's vital to connect with their hearts--not just their minds--amid the daily behavior battles.
With warmth and grace, Jim and Lynne Jackson, founders of Connected Families, offer four tried-and-true keys to handling any behavioral issues with love, truth, and authority. You will learn practical ways to communicate messages of grace and truth, how to discipline in a way that motivates your child, and how to keep your relationship strong, not antagonistic. Discipline is more than just a short-term attempt to modify your child's actions--it's a long-term investment to help them build faith, wisdom, and character for life. When you discover a better path to discipline, you'll find a more well-behaved--and well-believed--kid

My thoughts: This book is an excellent one for busy parents to pick up, since it is chocked full of wonderful advise paired with real life stories to show how the advise is applicable. The four main principles of the book are to give your children a foundation that says they are safe with you, connect so they know they are loved no matter what, coach because they are called and capable, and correct by showing them they are responsible for their actions. While this book doesn't have all the answers, I learned a lot from it. I especially appreciated the chapters that dealt with showing your child unconditional love and understanding why a child misbehaves. This is an excellent book for parents of children from birth on up!
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Total Family Makeover

Train children in the way they should go; when they grow old, they won’t depart from it. —Proverbs 22:6

God calls us as parents to be key disciple-makers in our children’s lives, but if we’re honest, some days it’s a battle just to get them dressed and ready for school on time. How can you mold their hearts when sometimes you can’t even find their shoes?

In Total Family Makeover, author Melissa Spoelstra gives parents a way—a sort of spiritual track to run on—when it comes to building family discipleship. She focuses on eight key habits of growth:

—Spending Time in Prayer
—Reading God’s Word
—Growing Through a Mentoring Relationship
—Finding Community in the Church
—Serving Others
—Taking Time to Rest
—Giving Back to God
—Sharing Your Faith

Disciples are made, not born. Whether your children are babes in arms or teenagers getting ready to leave the nest, making disciples at home starts with you! Give your family a makeover with this practical approach to helping your children learn what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

MY thoughts: This book has some wonderful ideas on how to implement important habits in your family's lives. A lot of us what to teach our children how to pray and the importance of time spent with God in devotions, but this book does an excellent job of laying out practical ways to help your family become a family of disciples. I appreciate Melissa's honesty and enjoyed the stories that she shared to tie her points together. I also love that she uses a lot of scripture verses and has great discussion questions to accompany each chapter.
This is an excellent parenting book! While I feel like it was good for me to read with young children, I think a lot of it is geared towards families with a little older children, like from age 4 on.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

While My Child is Away

Parents and children are separated for many reasons: divorce, school, camp, even work. It might be for just a few days or indefinitely. These prayers give voice to all that you are hoping for your child when you can’t be the one to meet their needs. Prayers of blessings, protection, instruction and grace. Or prayers for those around your child to choose wisely, see their needs, and love them as you would. Prayers for friends, teachers, coaches and mentors to step in and fill every need. Knowing that a loving Father God is caring for your child, even when you can’t, gives you the peace and assurance that all will be well.

My thoughts: I like how this book is set up! Each chapter starts with several prayers that give parents ideas of what to pray for over their children at all different stages. I like that Edie shares a lot of personal stories and experiences, before summing the chapter up in a few key thoughts. She has so many wonderful ideas in this book! I enjoyed it even more than I thought I would. Especially the reminder to live in the moment. Being a mother is crazy, but we only have our little ones for a short time before they fly the nest.
I received this book from Worthy publisher in exchange for my honest review.

The Low Pressure Guide to Parenting Your Preschooler

The Low-Pressure Guide to Parenting Your Preschooler is brilliantly written to liberate parents from the expectations of having to be super-parents. It relieves the pressure to follow long lists of rules, to be perfect, and to be enslaved by the idea that, “If you don’t do this, your kids will turn out terribly.” This book shows parents that it’s really not their job to make sure their child turns out “right.” Instead, the author encourages parents to learn the much simpler and more rewarding role God has for them. This book . . .

Assists parents in recognizing the difference between controlling and influencing actions when it comes to raising preschoolers.
Provides a four-quadrant grid that visually clarifies what parents can and can’t control and what they are and aren’t responsible for when it comes to interacting with their child
Distills the mountain of parenting advice and material down to four overarching principles that are clear and doable

The Low-Pressure Guide to Parenting Your Preschooler makes the job of parenting simpler and reduces the stress parents feel when it comes to parenting.

My thoughts: We put so many pressures on ourselves when parenting, since we want what we think is best for our kids and hope that they will turn out perfect. This book was an excellent reminder for me that we are all imperfect creatures, but that God knows that about us and loves us anyways. So, I, as a parent, need to have some grace for both myself and my children. This book has so many excellent points. I really needed to read this one! I appreciated the reminder not to get caught up in the small details, but to enjoy this phase. The good, the bad, and the ugly.;) This book is not about letting your kid run amok, but about learning what is important and what can be let go. I highly recommend this book for parents of preschoolers!
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

Raising a Young Modern Day Princess

Emulating the format of Raising a Modern-Day Princess, authors Doreen Hanna and Karen Whiting seek to help parents and grandparents cultivate strong relationships and encourage the spiritual formation in their daughters using examples, Bible teaching on the fruit of the Spirit, and a variety of creative activities that are based on Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control).

By implementing the ideas in this book, mothers (as well as fathers) will be equipped to understand and guide their daughters through each step of becoming His “princess.” This will include perceiving a daughter’s unique personality and gifts, refining her character through training and discipline, and modeling the attributes of a daughter of the King.

This book is a follow-up to both Raising a Modern-Day Knight (by Robert Lewis) and Raising a Modern-Day Princess by Pam Farrel and Doreen Hanna. While the latter book is aimed at parents of girls ages 12 and up, this book focuses on building the Christian character of younger girls.

My thoughts: This book is just perfect for my family, since I have a young daughter who loves anything princess like. This book is amazing! I like how it has a ton of activities to help little girls grasp the fruits of the spirit and their are ways for both mom and dads to get involved. I love the tea party ideas, and especially appreciated the activities to show how kindness has a ripple affect (I've had a hard time trying to explain the importance of kindness to my toddler, so these really helped!). This is an excellent book for parents or guardians of young girls, since it helps teach important lessons. I look forward to getting the book for older girls when the time comes, but I am so thankful that this one is out there for young girls.
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

Reaching Your Prodigal

Prodigals come in many forms. We often think of the defiant ones as prodigals, but there are other types that break our hearts: embarrassing, intellectual, lukewarm, and religious prodigals. The word prodigal means "wasted." Like the younger son in Jesus' parable, many of our loved ones are wasting their lives. Learn how to love them no matter what form of "wasted" they choose.

My thoughts: This is an excellent book! I love how this book offers a message of hope for parents or loved ones dealing with a prodigal. I like that Phil Waldrep gets to the heart of the issues that families deal with when a loved one strays from what they are taught, whether it is a parent, grandparent, or sibling. I also like that he makes some wonderful points about the guilt one might feel and how people have their own agency, though it is good to uncover past hurts and ask for forgiveness. This book is excellent to read on your own or with a study group, since there is plenty to think over or discuss.
I received this book from Worthy in exchange for my honest review.

Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World

"But everyone else has it." "If you loved me, you'd get it for me!" When you hear these comments from your kids, it can be tough not to cave. You love your children--don't you want them to be happy and to fit in?Kristen Welch knows firsthand it's not that easy. In fact, she's found out that when you say yes too often, it's not only hard on your peace of mind and your wallet--it actually "puts your kids at long-term risk." In "Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World," Kristen shares the ups and downs in her own family's journey of discovering why it's healthiest "not" to give their kids everything. Teaching them the difference between "want" and "need" is the first step in the right direction. With many practical tips and anecdotes, she shares how to help kids become hardworking, fulfilled, and successful adults.It's never too late to raise grateful kids. Get ready to cultivate a spirit of genuine appreciation in your family and create a home in which your kids don't just say--but "mean"!--"thank you" for everything they have.

My thoughts: This time of year is especially bad when it comes to trying to raise grateful kids in a consumer, entitled world, since commercials, store displays, and even well meaning people push the thought that we should go over the top and spoil our kids with everything they could ever want. Wait, didn't we just finish celebrating a holiday centered around being thankful?
But, I digress.;) This book is an excellent resource for parents who want more for their kids. With her wit and like able writing style, Kristen does a fabulous job of drawing readers in and giving one resources and tips to raise grateful children. Reading through her book made me realize how blessed I am to have the parents I had, who had us learn the value of working hard and working together. I think this is a book that every parent should have on their shelf!
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

She's Almost a Teenager

A Guide to Meaningful Parent-Daughter Conversations

Your daughter is growing up. There are so many issues she'll face, such as body image, confusion about relationships, and taking ownership of her spiritual life. How do you connect with her on the things that are important to both of you? This structured approach to conversations and activities with your girl will make it easier to have those memorable times together. You'll find practical ways to encourage her in her faith, talk about the challenges she faces in school and with friends, and remind her that you love her dearly.

My thoughts: So, I had to laugh that I requested this one, since I have a two year old, but I know that the years are going to go by fast! Might as well be prepared, right? Not to mention, there are days when it feels like she is almost a teenager as her spunk comes out.;)
I love that this book is all about communicating with your preteen daughter about important subjects, from faith to tech, money to boys and friends. The book is also written by two sets of parents, one that has adult children and the other that is in the midst of raising adolescents. This book is easy to read and a great resource for parents, since they have so many great points! I also love the bonus activities.;)
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Pass It On

Parents often experience a “freak out” moment when they realize their children’s view of God will primarily come from what they learn at home.

Most parents spend more time helping their kids succeed at academics or athletics than infusing shared spiritual experiences into the rhythm of everyday family life.

While the idea of strategically passing down our faith can seem intimidating, the annual Rites of Passage Experiences contained in Pass It On make it easy for your family to celebrate milestones from kindergarten through high school graduation. Forever change the direction of your family’s spiritual legacy . . . starting now!

My thoughts: As a parent now, figuring out how to pass on my faith to my child is something that has been on my heart for a while now. How do you lead by example and help them to find their own personal relationship with the Lord? I'm happy to say that this book is a wonderful resource for parents asking similar questions! The authors have fresh, creative ideas on how a parent/guardian can help their children find a rich relationship with God. I like how they point out how to make faith in God applicable to every day life and big events. This is a wonderful resource for both church and personal libraries!
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Finding Peace

About the book:

What can you do when family members turn away from your cherished faith? How can you move from such powerful disappointment to a place of peace? This book takes a thoughtful look at how you can face your new reality, hold on to hope, and stay connected with children who exercise agency in ways you would not choose for them. Uplifting and encouraging, this book is perfect for helping parents and grandparents alike to find the seemingly elusive peace they seek.

About the author:

Robin Zenger Baker has a psychology degree from Stanford University, an Organizational Behavior Master’s degree from BYU, and a PhD in Organizational Strategy from UCLA. She is currently studying Family Therapy and Counseling at UMass Boston. She has written for the Ensign magazine, and has edited and co-authored multiple publications in the field of organizational behavior. She is a past president of the BYU Alumni Association Boston chapter, and currently works to raise funds for local inner city youth to attend church schools.

My thoughts: While a lot of the books from Cedar Fort carry over well to other denominations, I would say that this book is not one of them. This book is geared towards the LDS church and what parents go through when their children leave the church. While there are some themes that carry over well, like sharing your testimony of the Lord when the time is right and finding joy in your children growing up to be good, moral people despite not sticking with church, overall it addresses a lot of the LDS beliefs and how the church is handling being in a changing world where young people want to go with whatever ideas seem progressive (never mind that a lot of them have been around since the dawn of time and a lot of the arguments are old as well, but I digress). I think this is a great resource for struggling parents.
I received this book from Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

Who's the New Kid?

At nine years old, Breanna Bond weighed a whopping 186 pounds. Just walking up the stairs to her room was a challenge. Her legs chafed to the point of bleeding from rubbing against each other, and her school days were filled with taunts of “Hey, Fatty!” Breanna’s mom, Heidi, was devastated and wondered, "How can I get my daughter healthy again?"

Who’s the New Kid? shows readers how Heidi helped her daughter lose weight without the aid of fad diets, medication, or surgery and how other parents can do the same with their kids.

In just over a year, Heidi’s plan worked! Breanna dropped 40 percent of her body weight and was transformed from a morbidly obese child who spent her days in front of the TV eating chips and chocolate to a vibrant, healthy, energetic little girl.

Filled with helpful diagnostic tools, easy-to-make recipes, eye-opening nutritional information, fun exercise ideas, and practical tips and advice, Who’s the New Kid? will not only show parents how to help their kids lose weight naturally but also introduce them to simple, yet effective lifestyle changes that will benefit the entire family.

My thoughts: Obesity, especially in children, is such a big deal right now. I think it is a good thing, when it comes to teaching children to eat healthy foods and get out and play (though I do think there can be a fine line in making sure your children are healthy and not obsessed about weight. But, I digress). In Heidi Bond's book, she shares about her journey to change her way of cooking at home and how that helped to get her daughter to lose weight and become a healthy, normal child. Heidi is honest about the struggles they faced and how they got to the point of having a daughter who started having health problems due to her weight. I love how her solution is fairly simple. Two thumbs up!
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Never Say No

The question Mark and Jan Foreman are most often asked is: How did you raise your kids?

Mark and Jan Foreman’s adult sons Jon and Tim Foreman of Switchfoot have influenced their world not only by a successful music career but also through their positive impact on communities around the globe. The Foreman parents instilled in their sons a belief that they could make a difference by living beyond themselves.

This powerful book gives readers an inside look at the process. It begins with both parent and child finding their identity in God. It then explores practical ways to encourage holistic learning while cultivating specific gifts, nurturing creativity in a media-saturated culture, and balancing structure with individual choice. Never Say No inspires readers to raise children to live in the wonder of life by loving others well. Parents will find encouragement for their own parenting journey as they guide their kids to live out God’s purpose in radical ways.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this parenting book! It is written in a great style for busy parents, this book is filled with great ideas on how to parent creatively, raising kids to best use their unique gifts. I love some of their creative ideas on how to make family dinners and time together as a family more fun and meaningful! They use a great combination of personal experiences, stories, and scriptures to bring home important points.
This is a wonderful parenting tool that I will return to again and again.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Keep It Real and Grab a Plunger

Learn how to overcome your natural manipulative, authoritarian tendencies and foster your child’s self-discipline, respect, and emotional maturity. Humorous, insightful, and authentic, this book will get you through the sticky stuff with grace so you can enjoy those parenting moments that make it all worth it.

My thoughts: I just had to review this book when I saw the title of it, since sometimes parenting can be about trying to survive (I don't mean this in a bad way!).;) I love the practical information in this book that helps parents to connect with their kids and help instill good values. I like her ideas for making meal time fun and a chance to connect with your kids and spouse. I also appreciate her thoughts on raising kids in a technology savvy world, how to make sure that they don't have an addiction to social media and teaching them the importance of having meaningful conversations and relationships.
This is an excellent resource for parents!
I received this book from Cedar fort in exchange for my honest review.