ParentLife Blog

Fun Friday Photo -- October 30, 2009

Rachel thinks it's lots of fun to sit up!

Thanks to Adam and Tonya M. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

Celebrating Fall Fun

I love fall and all that it brings -- cooler weather, changing leaves, pumpkins, apple cider, and so much more. While your family may or may not officially be celebrating Halloween, there are lots of fun ways you can celebrate fall!

Yesterday evening, we took Jack (almost 16 months old) to a fall festival at our church. He got to wear his Halloween costume (a lion) and play in a big bouncy play yard with lots of plastic balls. He had a great time! We are not going trick-or-treating with Jack this year, simply because it would be so much work and he can't eat (and doesn't need) the candy! (And neither do we for that matter!) We hope to go to a pumpkin farm on Saturday morning with a group of friends from church and then spend the evening handing out candy, watching movies, and enjoying some good fall food!

How does your family celebarate fall? Tell us about your favorite fall activities!

Lunch Note Promise

At 16, Shawn Johnson won gold. Less than a year later, she was crowned a national dance sensation.  From the gym to the ballroom, Johnson credits her success to encouragement she received from her parents and mentors. This fall, Johnson is partnering with the Lunch Note Promise Campaign brought to you by the new Lunchables to inspire parents to give kids that same type of support, in big and small ways.

Making the Promise
The Lunchables team is asking parents and caregivers nationwide to promise to drop a note of encouragement into their child’s lunch. For every parent that logs onto www.lunchnotepromise.com and makes that promise, the Lunchables team will donate a meal to children and families in need through Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief charity, which serves an estimated nine million children each year. The goal is to turn 100,000 promises into up to 100,000 meals.

Lunchnotepromise.com also provides free downloadable stationery that includes more than six vibrant, customizable patterns that parents can use to create fun and cheerful notes that will delight their kids.

Wholesome New Lunchables
Moms can also feed their kids’ success with a Lunchables Lunch Combination. This fall, the brand rolled out six new varieties that feature enhancements like bread made with whole grain, turkey made with 100 percent turkey breast, spring water, and applesauce.

Lunchables Lunch Combinations are available in the refrigerated section of grocery stores and retail for $3.49. To learn more about the new Lunchables or the Lunchables Lunch Notes Promise Campaign visit www.lunchnotepromise.com.

How do you show your child support and encouragement? Share your fun, creative tips with other ParentLife readers!

Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have a safe holiday, here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

All Dressed Up

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement, or contact with flame.
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.
• When shopping for costumes, wigs, and accessories look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
• If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if he stumbles or trips.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
• Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.

Carve a Niche

• Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers.  Then parents can do the cutting.
• Votive candles are safest for candle-lit pumpkins.
• Candle-lit pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects, and should never be left unattended.

Home Safe Home

• To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes, and lawn decorations.
• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
• Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.

On the Trick-or-Treat Trail

• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
• Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind Trick-or Treaters:
  1. Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
  2. Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
  3. Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
  4. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
  5. Never cut across yards or use alleys.
  6. Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.
  7. Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
• Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

Healthy Halloween

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
• Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.
• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped, or suspicious items.
• Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween.

© 10/09 American Academy of Pediatrics

For even more safety tips, to send these tips to a friend, or to download them in Spanish, visit http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/octhalloween.cfm.

Kids Eat Free!

In today’s economy, families are trying to save every dollar they can. Many restaurants recognize this, and are offering deals to attract parents and their children. The editors of Mr. Free Stuff have compiled a list of 101 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free to let consumers know where they can dine out on the cheap.

From well-known chains like Golden Corral, TGI Friday’s, Bennigan’s, Chik-fil-A, Buffalo Wild Wings, Fazoli’s, and Denny’s to regional favorites, the feature on Mr. Free Stuff informs readers about eat-for-free specials that are available on any given day of the week. Sunday (33), Monday (36) and Tuesday (56) are the best days to get freebies from restaurants. On Friday, only 14 eateries on the list give free offers.

Know of any other great meal deals? Share your budget-friendly ideas with ParentLife readers!

Search and Shop -- for a Worthy Cause!

It doesn't seem that long ago that my mom called, explaining that she had breast cancer and would need surgery. I remember being shocked and concerned, asking people to pray for her that I had never asked to pray for anything else. She was certainly resolute and prayerful as she faced surgery, radiation,  chemotherapy, and five years of follow-up medication. Today she is a breast cancer survivor, and I am thankful for all those who prayed for her and helped raise money for research to help find treatment for those who face breast cancer.

As you may know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you have not had a chance to participate in a 5K or take part in another fundraiser for breast cancer research, we have a few more options for you to help this worthy cause. 

GoodSearch.com and GoodShop.com

Every princess deserves a crown, but since that's just not very comfortable for an active girl, a darling clip, pony holder, crochet hat, or headband is the next best thing! Clips4aCure.com is an amazingly affordable, Mom-run e-tailer and wholesaler, dedicated to curing cancer one haute hair accessory at a time!

The line includes bedazzled and dazzling hair treats for infants with very little hair to teens and even moms who want to glam up their tresses. Here's the most beautiful detail of all: 20 percent of the proceeds from each accessory is given to prominent cancer research organizations. The Mom who founded this ultra-chic line of hair treats is a breast cancer survivor who vowed to give back to help find a cure.

Let us know how you supported Breast Cancer Awareness Month during October.

Fun Friday Photo -- October 23, 2009

Mommy and Daddy's Star — 3-year-old Hope Riley!

Thanks to Carol R. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

What to Look for in a Family Vehicle

Every parent makes tough decisions that impact the entire family, and choosing the right car is no exception. Whether driving to and from after-school activities or planning a road trip, a reliable family car is crucial. But with so many makes and models to choose from, it’s good to have a process to help make a smart and safe purchase that pleases everyone — from the auto enthusiast dad to the little ones in the backseat.

You have to consider safety, reliability, handling, economy, and a range of personal preferences when choosing a family car. Experts from AutoTrader.com offer the following overview on popular family friendly models, including minivans, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), and sedans.

SUVs – Attractive, roomy, sturdy, powerful, and responsive, these vehicles have been a popular choice in recent years.

Pros:

• Often sit up higher, an ideal feature for improved all-around visibility
• Often equipped with four-wheel or all-wheel drive to handle different terrains
• Typically feature family-friendly bonuses, such as rear-seat DVD players and enough cup holders for the entire family

Cons:

• Can be gas guzzlers
• More prone to rollovers, leading to safety concerns
• High thresholds may lead to trouble loading items into some SUVs

Minivans – When they first appeared on the scene before SUVs took the stage, minivans were the ultimate family vehicle choice — and are making a comeback.

Pros:

• Less likely than SUVs to roll over in a crash
• Often include built-in crumple zones to help absorb the impact and protect passengers
• Roomy for passengers and allow a great deal of cargo space
• Often equipped with automatic sliding doors, which lessens the stress of loading the car while holding a child
• Low threshold makes it easier to remove car seats and load groceries

Cons:

• Generally have a lower resale value than an SUV

Family Sedans – As gas prices rise, so do the attractiveness and sales of sedans — especially smaller, more gas-friendly ones.

Pros:

• With a smaller size, family members can be within reach of the driver
• Include perks like affordability and nimble handling
• Can offer better gas mileage than most SUVs and minivans

Cons:

• Storage space can be more limited

Other Factors Parents Should Consider when Looking for a Car:

• Size and activity level of a family. Are family members involved in extracurricular activities or sports with equipment that requires more storage space or will the car primarily be used as a means to get from Point A to Point B? Does the car need to be large enough to fit everyone and everything inside or will a more economical sedan suffice?
• Safety. Parents should take note of important features with which a family car should come equipped, such as electronic stability control, side airbags, anti-lock braking systems, and tire pressure monitoring systems. When you are looking at specific models, if you choose an SUV for your family car, look for responsive mid-size models with excellent crash test ratings, or consider a crossover, which combines the safety of minivans with the sleek features of a traditional SUV.
• Personal preferences and convenience. Personal preferences, such as cargo area size and ease of car seat installation, vary for each parent and absolutely important to consider when looking at different cars. Parents may also want to consider factors that make things more convenient when it comes to children, such as dark upholstery (for spills and messes), keyless entry (when you are juggling kids and other items), and a LATCH system, which makes installing car seats easier and safer.

Visit www.AutoTrader.com to learn more.

What do you look for in a family car? Any tips for families who are shopping for a new car?
 

Giveaway Reminder

Remember this October we are giving away two of our newest parenting resources for Bible study: The Parent Adventure and The Family God Uses.

The Parent Adventure: Preparing Your Children for a Lifetime With God by Rodney and Selma Wilson is a 6-week study focused on key topics in parenting at any life stage.

The Family God Uses: Becoming a Home of Influence by Tom and Kim Blackaby is a 6-week study designed as a field manual for families looking to pray, grow, and serve together.

Everyone* who posts a comment on our blog during the month of October will be entered to win!

*LifeWay employees are not eligible for this giveaway. Multiple comments do not increase chances of winning.

Worthy Cause

The following is a worthy fundraiser taking place in Nashville, Tennessee, on October 25, 2009. We thought you might be interested in their story whether local to Nashville or not.

Laurian and John Scott, lost their two children, Thisbe and Noah, to a rare pediatric motor neuron disease. Now in their memories, friends and family will host a walk at Centennial Park in Nashville to celebrate their lives and to raise awareness about this devastating disease. The following is part of their story and more info about the fundraiser.
 
On Sunday, October 25th, 2009, at 3:00 p.m., The Olive Branch Fund: A Thisbe and Noah Scott Legacy, started by Franklin residents, John and Laurian Scott, will be hosting “A Mighty Voice,” a multi-city fundraiser to raise awareness and fund research for pediatric motor neuron diseases (MNDs) at Centennial Park.

The Olive Branch Fund was founded in honor of the Scott’s two children, Elenna “Thisbe” and Noah Scott, who were both lost to Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere (BVVL), a rare form of MND. Their daughter Thisbe was perfectly healthy the first 16 months of her life, yet gravely ill the last 17 months and passed away on April 30, 2007. One month later, their son Noah, 10-months-old at the time, also began showing symptoms of the same disease. Nine months later, on April 9, 2008, he also passed away. It has since been their mission to raise awareness of these diseases, help fund research to find a cure and be a support system for all families of pediatric MNDs.

“As the second annual A Mighty Voice event in our hometown, we look forward to strengthening the awareness, momentum, and research dollars for these diseases while also making it a wonderful event for families,” said Laurian Scott. “It’s amazing how many people are carrying the genetic mutation for a MND and have no idea – the number has been estimated at approximately 1 in 35 to 40 people. SMA, the most common pediatric MND, is the number one genetic killer of infants and toddlers. Since my daughter’s ‘diagnosis’ in 2006, we have radically changed the face of BVVL, and multiple families here and abroad, even as far away as Libya, have reached out to us for help. We’re the only ones on the planet advocating for this disease while also vying for a universal treatment for all MNDs.”

This family-friendly fundraiser will include a walk through Centennial Park with live entertainment by the popular children’s band, Adam and the Couch Potatoes, face-painting, and a book signing of Thisbe’s Promise, a children’s picture book written by Laurian Scott. Through this, and other fundraisers throughout the nation, the Scott family hopes to create “A Mighty Voice” for all children affected by motor neuron diseases.

The Olive Branch Fund is a component fund of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, a 501 (c) (3). For more information visit www.amightyvoice.org or www.cfmt.org.

Please let us know if you go to this fundraiser on Sunday!

The Preteen Porn Talk

In the October 2009 issue of ParentLife, Teresa Cook addressed the difficult issue of preteens and pornography in the article "Preteens and Porn: What I Wish I Had Known." If you are the parent of a preteen and struggling to know how to talk to your child about pornography, help him understand the dangers of pornography using the following discussion points.

• God designed sex to be between husband and wife only (Ephesians 5:31; Hebrews 13:4). It is a private act, not meant for others to watch even through a picture or video.
• When you look at pornography, the images burn themselves into your brain, just like you would burn pictures onto a CD, and remain there for a long time.
• People of all ages can become addicted to pornography very quickly. Many experts believe pornography addiction is stronger than drug addiction.
• Pornographers often portray intercourse in abnormal and violent ways, which is not God’s plan for sex. It will confuse you about the real purpose for sex, an expression of love between a husband and wife.
• Looking at pornography can make you want 
to do the things you see.

For more help defending your child against the growing threat of pornography, be sure to check out Teresa's Web site — www.pornproofyourchild.com.

Fun Friday Photo -- October 16, 2009

Dad, do you think this will help the Titans win on Sunday?

Thanks to William and Christy for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

A Better Bedtime

Fall is finally here, and with fall comes chilly weather. If you are like me, you've already packed away the summer clothes and brought out the warm ones ... especially warm pajamas.

Unfortunately, not ever child has the luxury of having warm pajamas. In the U.S. foster care system, alone, there are more than 500,000 children. Every two seconds another child enters the system. Many have been abandoned or abused and have never enjoyed the simple comfort of putting on a cozy pair of pajamas and having a mother or father tuck them in at bedtime and read to them. But now ... thanks to the non-profit Pajama Program, thousands of children in orphanages, group homes, and shelters are being given new pajamas and new books.

Single-Parent Superheroes

About a month ago, my husband, Jason, went out of town for a fun guy's event. I encouraged him to go because I knew it would be good for him to spend time with friends and recharge his batteries. Everyone needs a break from parenting every now and then. I was excited for him because I knew he would have fun, but I was bit anxious about taking care of our 14-month-old, Jack, all weekend completely by myself.

Jack and I stayed home on Friday night and played together until bedtime. After he went to bed, it was wonderful to have the house completely to myself. I enjoyed just vegging on the couch in my pajamas watching girlie shows my husband doesn't like to watch with me! I even slept in the very middle of our queen bed ... just because I could!

Saturday was fun too with lots of quality Mom-and-Jack

time. Saturday evening we went to a family cookout where Jack was able to play with his cousins. We had a great time, but by the time I got Jack in bed, I was completely exhausted, mentally and physically. I was starting to wonder how single parents do it day in and day out.

Saturday night ended up being a very long night. Jack started coughing and running a fever in the middle of the night. Neither one of us got much good sleep. And Sunday morning brought the dilemma of what to do about church. I had responsibilities that would be hard to get out of, but I knew I couldn't take Jack to the church nursery. Thank goodness I have awesome parents who live nearby. They were willing to stay home from church and keep Jack while I took care of my church responsibilities.

Needless to say, I was super glad when Jason got home!

But the weekend gave me a tiny glimpse of how truly difficult single parenting must be. How do single parents have the energy day after day to take care of active, busy children? Where do they turn for help in child-care predicaments ... especially if they do not have family nearby? Do they ever feel truly rested? Do they ever have time to themselves?

If you are a single parent, you are my hero!

ParentLife wants to provide encouragement and support specifically for you. Be sure not to miss our monthly column "Single Parent Life." As a single parent, what topics would you like to read about? Let us know so we can do a better job of meeting your needs!

I Love This Lunchbox!

When I make lunch for my sons (I did today in fact), I like to include a note in each or their lunchboxes. We have tried buying napkins that you can write on or pre-printed notes that you tear off and place in their lunches. But then I saw this cool lunchbox from Frecklebox.

Not only does it have a cool design with his name on the outside but a chalkboard on the inside lid so that I can write personal messages to him.

Frecklebox has 20 designs of the lunchboxes with the chalkboard inside, so you are guaranteed to find one your child will love!

Frecklebox specializes in personalized gear: folders, books, and now retro lunchboxes. My son now has one of these cool lunchboxes, and we both love it!

Have you found a cool product for your kids to spice up lunchtime at school?

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Have you been seeing pink this October? That's because October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States. It is the second leading cause of death in women, after lung cancer. Chances are ... you or someone you love has been impacted by breast cancer in some way. Amy Heeg is a woman who has been directly impacted by breast cancer, but she is a survivor!. Here is her story.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 36. Until then, my biggest fears were my teenage son driving and how I would be turning 40 soon. Now turning 40 is a blessing.

It was July 2007, and I was still nursing my youngest when I noticed that my milk supply was decreasing on one side and there was a lump. The doctor didn't think there was anything to worry about, but just to be sure, he recommended an ultrasound.

He wasn't worried because I was 36 years old, didn't smoke or drink, led an active lifestyle, had nursed all of my children, and there was no history of breast cancer in my family. I got several ultrasounds and then a mammogram. Finally, the doctor said I needed to have a biopsy. The lump in my throat got bigger.

My mass was estimated to be about 4 cm in size, so the only real option was a mastectomy. On September 12, 2007— amidst tears of fear and amazing peace that only God could have provided me, I was rolled into surgery. A few weeks later I was officially given the news that the cancer had moved into my bones, with possible spots in my liver and ovaries. I was officially stage IV, with a husband, four children, and an entire life to fight for.

I’m 38 now, and my motivation is simple. I want to live. I want to see my children graduate, and get their first job. I want to see them get married and meet my grandchildren. I want to grow old with my husband.

I want women to understand that breast cancer is not an older women’s disease. Forty is not the magic number.

People continue to ask me where I find my strength, and my answer is God and my family and friends. I will walk in the Breast Cancer 3-Day and will continue to walk until a cure is found or I cease to breathe.

Amy Heeg — Howell, Michigan

Want to know more about breast cancer prevention and detection? Don't miss the article "Breast Cancer Awareness" in the October 2009 issue of ParentLife or visit www.cancer.org.

And don't forget! Early detection is so important! Be sure to see your doctor at the first sign or feeling that something might be wrong.

Read for the Record Day

Today, Jumpstart’s Read for the Record will set a new record for the world’s largest shared reading experience and raise funds for early education in low-income communities.  People everywhere will join together to read the beloved children’s classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle to more than one million children across the country and globe. 
 
Jumpstart’s Read for the Record is a celebration of reading and community service created to raise awareness about the importance that reading with young children has in developing crucial early language and literacy skills they need to succeed in school and in life. Each year, one third of America’s children arrive at their first day of school developmentally behind their peers and without the skills necessary to succeed. This year’s campaign will donate hundreds of thousands of books and raise more than $2.5 million to support Jumpstart’s yearlong work with preschool children. 

The official campaign book for the 2009 Read for the Record is a special, limited edition of the Philomel Books classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Walmart stores nationwide are offering the official limited edition copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar in support of Jumpstart's Read for the Record. All net proceeds from the book sales will be donated to Jumpstart.
 
Anyone, anywhere can participate in Jumpstart’s Read for the Record by pledging to read at readfortherecord.org, buying their official limited-edition campaign book at Walmart, and then reading with a child at home or at one of the thousands of events taking place in schools, libraries, town halls and community centers across the country. To see what’s happening in your community, visit the Event Finder at readfortherecord.org. 

Did your family participate in any Read for the Record events today? Tell us about your experience.

Tips to Make the Most of Student Smiles

Fall is here and usually that means time for school pictures! School picture day may last only a few minutes for most individual students, but the outcome can haunt them for a lifetime. Bad haircuts, clothing, or poses can become the stuff of family legend. However, it doesn’t have to end that way. SchoolPictures.com, an authority on taking classic student portraits, is sharing some advice this year with parents, students, and teachers to hopefully best prepare them for this rite of passage.

1. Mark your calendar! You do not want to forget the date of your student’s pictures.
2. A well-groomed child is the best start for a perfect photo.
3. Do not try out any new haircuts, styles, or colors within two weeks before photos.
4. Avoid wearing stripes or loud prints on clothing. Solid colors are a sure bet.
5. Avoid clothes with printed slogans. They often get cropped out of the photo.
6. A good night’s sleep keeps under-eye circles at bay.
7. Select small accessories that don’t detract from the focus on your student.
8. A spot of eye drop solution can help reduce eye redness.
9. Avoid excessive sun exposure for a few days prior to picture day.
10. Good posture will ensure kids look alert and at their best.
11. Tell students to relax and let their own smile and personality come through!

Do you have any school picture stories? Share your funny stories with us and other ParentLife readers by leaving a comment.

Camping Weather!

This is the weekend of our church's RA Family Campout. Royal Ambassadors (RAs) is a missions education program our church does for boys on Wednesday nights. Each year we have a campout complete with hot dogs, s-mores, and lots of fun and games. This year is no exception for the boys and me. We are going out into the wilderness and set up camp ... actually we will be in a pasture on a farm and only have to set up our tent! But it will still be a camping adventure for all of us. And I have to remember not to lock my keys in the car as I did a couple years ago since my wife will be at a Beth Moore conference!

Camping is one of those great fall traditions. In fact, I wrote all about it in the October 2009 ParentLife editorial, in a tongue in cheek approach to the highs and lows of camping. We have had some memorable camping weather events as a family. Most notably trying to camp in 95 degree weather in July ... and the time we camped with our Sunday School class but ended up sleeping in our van because of a thunderstorm (photo to the left after we survived). We knew it was time to move to the van when our oldest son said, "I don't want to die in a tent in a thunderstorm!" But the memories of good times camping far outweigh these few inconveniences.

Do you have some great camping stories? Post one of your stories to share with us and other readers.

And be sure to check out the October issue of ParentLife!

October Giveaway!

This October we are giving away two of our newest parenting resources for Bible study: The Parent Adventure and The Family God Uses.

The Parent Adventure: Preparing Your Children for a Lifetime With God by Rodney and Selma Wilson is a 6-week study focused on key topics in parenting at any life stage.

The Family God Uses: Becoming a Home of Influence by Tom and Kim Blackaby is a 6-week study designed as a field manual for families looking to pray, grow, and serve together.

Everyone* who posts a comment on our blog during the month of October will be entered to win!

*LifeWay employees are not eligible for this giveaway. Multiple comments do not increase chances of winning.

September Giveaway Winners!

We would like to congratulate Nancy, Wendy, Jennifer, Dori, Sheila, Angelia, Chris, Wanda, and Christina — all winners in our September giveaway for posting on our blog druing the month of September!

Foster Care

In the October 2009 issue of ParentLife, we originally included an article on foster children. However, due to a need to create advertising space, we had to pull the article at the last minute. We wanted to include this article for you provided by Michael Piraino, CEO of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association (CASA).

Each day in the United States more than 850 children enter the foster care system, often due to parental abuse or neglect. Originally designed as a temporary housing solution for youth whose parents were unable to provide for their essential well-being, foster care now has become home to more than a half million children each year.

Case studies show foster children can find themselves in as many as 30 homes throughout their stay in care. With each move comes the uncertainty of a new family, new school, and new friends. Ultimately, this instability impedes a child’s ability to form personal attachments, diminishes her self-esteem, and seriously disrupts her education. On average, foster children can change schools eight times before they reach the age of 18. As a result, only 46 percent will graduate from high school.

Raising Awareness
Now is the time to raise awareness of ways to support this country’s most vulnerable children. While the need for foster parents is great, there are only enough licensed foster homes to care for 30 percent of the foster care population. You can help make a difference whether you can commit a lifetime, years, months, weeks, days, or hours.

• Adopt or become a foster parent. Check with your local department of children and family services or the National Foster Parent Association for requirements, as they vary from state to state.
• Become a CASA volunteer. CASA volunteers are trained to advocate for foster children in court in order to help find permanent homes for abused and neglected children. After undergoing a 30-hour training program, a volunteer is assigned his first court case. To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer, visit  www.nationalcasa.org.

If you would like to see the entire article originally to appear in ParentLife, please download this pdf.

Fun Friday Photo -- October 9, 2009

Three-year-old Timothy enjoys doing whatever his big sister Macy (5 years old) does!

Thanks to Tim H. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

Fun Friday Photo -- October 2, 2009

Two-and-a-half-year-old Kali peeks through to see the ocean waves!

Thanks to Sherry S. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!