Parenting is a path often laden with uncertainty and challenge, punctuated by moments of sheer joy and unexpected realizations. Along this winding path, several books have greatly influenced my parenting philosophy. Here are six titles that have shaped my practices as a parent, each offering unique perspectives and valuable tools to help guide my children through the complexities of modern life.
1. Parenting by Paul David Tripp
This book reorients parenting from task-based to a relationship-based approach. Tripp emphasizes the importance of grace and the gospel, arguing that understanding God's mercies allows parents to pass these teachings on to their children effectively. This book helped me see beyond the day-to-day tasks and focus on the hearts of my children in every moment, aiming to weave the message of grace into their lives from a young age.
2. Family Worship by Donald S. Whitney
Whitney’s Family Worship discusses the importance of bringing worship into the home, making it a daily part of family life. This book highlights historical practices and provides practical ways to incorporate reading the Bible, praying, and singing hymns together as a family. I learned about spiritual discipline from Whitney's other writings, but this book especially transformed our family routines and helped us build a spiritually rich home.
3. Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer
Hillary Morgan Ferrer encourages mothers to equip their children to face the ideological battles of our times. This book arms parents with understanding and strategies to help their children critically evaluate and engage with various worldviews and cultural norms. In a culture becoming increasingly negative towards Christianity, we must develop a counter-catechesis. Having a strong foundation in Biblical truth is priority, but the ability to identify and counter the world's messages will forge tougher armor. Ferrer instilled in me a proactive stance on discussing tough, philosophical, and theological issues with my children, preparing them to navigate and challenge the cultural currents with wisdom.
4. The Coddling of the American Mind by Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff
Haidt and Lukianoff analyze the rising trends of protecting children from psychological stresses and the resultant decline in their resilience. This book taught me the value of preparing my kids for the real world through exposure rather than protection, emphasizing the need for developing their ability to handle adversities. Admittedly, I still find myself protecting at times, but in the moments when I'm disciplined enough to allow my children experience conflict, I see growth.
5. 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You by Tony Reinke
Tony Reinke is the expert on the impact screens are having on children, but the focus of this book is the impact on adult lives and relationships. This book was a wake-up call to the effects my habitual phone use had on my children. It led me to implement more stringent digital hygiene and cultivate a family culture where presence and attention hold paramount value. After reading this book, and putting new screen habits into practice, I had the best summer of my life.
6. Raising Financially Confident Kids by Mary Hunt
This book was a recommendation from a couple at my church who have raised children up into incredible adults. (I'm going to read anything they recommend on parenting!) Though it is a little dated in some of its practices, this book gives practical advice on teaching children about managing money. Hunt provides an effective framework for fostering financial responsibility from a young age, including how to earn, save, and spend wisely. It inspired me to set up systems that teach my children the value of money and financial planning, aiming to prepare them for economic self-sufficiency and prudent decision-making in adulthood.
Final Thoughts
Each of these books provided me with distinct insights and practical tools that have enriched my parenting in different ways—from enhancing our family’s spiritual life to preparing my children to face the world with resilience and wisdom. I hope sharing these resources inspires you to seek knowledge and perspective as you guide your children through the complexities of today’s world. Remember, in the realm of parenting, we are all learners, and these books are just a few of the many guides available to aid us on this remarkable journey.
