Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

Navigating relationships with in-laws and grandparents can be tricky, especially when it comes to setting boundaries for the safety and well-being of your kids. Today Karen tackles your questions about managing challenging family dynamics with wisdom, grace, and confidence. Whether you're dealing with safety concerns, feeling smothered, or struggling with differing parenting approaches, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you protect your family while fostering peace. Episode Recap:2:10 - Check out our new podcast set up on YouTube4:35  - How do I graciously handle having two sets of hyper-involved grandparents? 9:15- How do I handle my mother-in-law’s disrespect in a kind but firm way? 12:45- My mom hovers and overprotects my kids - what should I do? 16:45 - My in-laws have repeatedly shown they do not respect my boundaries, is there anything I can do? Scripture for Reflection: James 1:5 (NIV) If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.Questions for Discussion:Have you ever had to set boundaries with family members? What was the outcome, and how did you approach it with kindness and firmness?What role should prayer play in preparing for difficult conversations about boundaries?In what ways can we shift our focus from trying to please everyone to focusing on our responsibilities as moms?What practical steps can you take this week to ensure your nuclear family has time to bond without extended family involvement?Resources:Register for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]Grab a copy of Karen’s devotional: Moments with God for Moms

Description: As we step into a new year, Karen and Emily are here to help you start fresh. In this episode, they discuss practical tips for breaking bad habits, finding contentment in your current season, and making space for your own growth as a mom. If you’re ready to embrace 2025 with renewed purpose and encouragement, you’re in the right place.Episode Recap:2:30 - Jumping into the New Year, what are your New Year’s resolutions? 9:02 - My childrens’ bad moods put me in a bad mood! What can I do about this? 13:34 - How do I prioritize my spiritual growth with 3 under 3 in my home? 17:15 - How do I break the habit of having my 5 year old share the bed with us? 20:50 - I’m struggling with contentment because I want another child but my husband and I both feel like we can’t afford another one, help! Scripture for Reflection:2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”Questions for Discussion:Does your child’s behavior affect your own emotions? Practically speaking, how can you disconnect your emotions from your child’s behavior?What strategies or tools have helped you find time for spiritual growth during a busy season of motherhood?Are there any bad habits you’ve developed when it comes to behavior or situations in your home (like the mom who was bed sharing longer than she wanted to)? What are they and are you ready to work to break them this year?Do you struggle with contentment? Maybe it’s the size of your family or your financial situation…how can you practice contentment while trusting God with your family’s future?Resources:Register for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]Grab a copy of Karen’s devotional: Moments with God for Moms

Today Karen and Emily sit down with Elizabeth Pehrson to discuss how moms can parent with purpose by focusing on the long game. In this conversation, Elizabeth shares her no-nonsense approach to raising independent, contributing adults. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of parenting littles or wondering how to prepare your teens for the real world, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped. Don’t miss the rest of the interview over on Patreon! Episode Recap:2:09 - Elizabeth is a long time friend of BOAW Moms and a breakout speaker at Soar 20253:36 - She is mom to 8 and founder of The Exchange8:08 - Most women live a Groundhog Day kind of life, but they don’t have to10:32 - We can’t love others when we’re not loving ourselves well12:37 - How did The Exchange come about? 18:25 - We need to raise adults who are contributors, not consumers21:00 - We are overprotecting and under preparing our kids for the real world 24:00 - Young adults today do not know how to problem solve on their own25:01 - We run a race differently when the length of the race changes - keep the long game in mind! Scripture for Reflection:Proverbs 22:6 (ESV) Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it."Questions for Discussion:What areas of parenting do you feel pressured to “do more,” and how might adopting a “do less” mindset bring freedom to your family?How are you currently preparing your children for independence, and what’s one practical step you can take to help them contribute more?Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of rediscovering yourself as a mom. What’s something you used to enjoy that you can reintroduce into your life?How can shifting your focus from short-term achievements to long-term character development change the way you approach parenting?Resources:Register for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]Become a Patreon member and listen to the rest of the interview with ElizabethCheck out Elizabeth’s organization, The ExchangeHow Do I Get Some Help Around the House? previous WT episode with Elizabeth

As we wrap up Wire Talk for 2024, we’re diving into practical ways to connect with your spouse during busy seasons. From showing appreciation in small ways to navigating family expectations and finding joy in spontaneity, Karen has got wisdom and real-life practical tips for you! Whether you’re balancing the holidays, family dynamics, or simply trying to plan a date night, we hope this conversation inspires you to be intentional in your marriage.Episode Recap:5:30 - How can I show my spouse they matter in small, but meaningful ways?9:00 - How can I accommodate my in-laws' tendency to plan way ahead? 11:45 - Communicating clearly is gracious, even if it disappoints others13:30 - I don’t feel lovey-dovey when we’re travelling, but my husband does. How do we navigate this dynamic? 16:50 - Did your yellow ever rub your blue husband the wrong way? How do I be more spontaneous to accommodate him? 23:00 - Thank you for all of your support this year! Sign up for SOAR in 2025Scripture for Reflection:1 Corinthians 16:14 (NIV) "Do everything in love." Questions for Discussion:What are some small but meaningful ways you can show your spouse they are appreciated during busy seasons?How can you find balance between accommodating family expectations and maintaining boundaries for your immediate family?Have you experienced differences in how you and your spouse handle travel or holiday dynamics? How do you navigate those differences?How can you practice flexibility in your plans while still honoring your own needs and personality?What’s one new date-night idea you’d like to try with your spouse?Resources:Register for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]Give today to support BOAW Moms and our plans in 2025: boaw.mom/donate

Today Karen and Emily are diving into what it means to love like Jesus, even when it’s difficult. They cover preparing your heart, navigating tricky relationships, and approaching family gatherings with humility. You’ll learn how to manage expectations and hear practical ways we can love others like Christ loves us. Whether you’re juggling in-laws, extended family, or just trying to survive the season, this episode is packed with encouragement and wisdom for the holidays.Episode Recap:5:41 - Why is it so challenging to love our extended family like Jesus?10:26 - How can we shift our mindset and love family when it feels impossible? 12:33 - You can’t ignore your feelings, but you don’t have to act on your feelings. 13:30 - What are some practical ways we can prepare our hearts before family gatherings?16:00 - Pray and ask God to show you what He loves about hard to love people23:44 - The holidays can bring joy, but they can bring a lot of trigger points as wellScripture for Reflection: John 13:34-35 (NIV)"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."Questions for Discussion:How can you demonstrate love to family members who may be difficult to connect with during the holidays?What practical steps can you take to prepare your heart to approach family gatherings with humility and grace?How does Jesus’ example of unconditional love challenge the way you interact with extended family or in-laws?What boundaries could you set to help maintain peace and joy during the holiday season, while still showing Christ-like love?Resources:Give today to support BOAW Moms and our plans in 2025: boaw.mom/donateRegister for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]

The holidays can often bring stress and guilt for moms as we try to make everything perfect for our families. In this episode, Karen and Emily share how to embrace a simpler, more joyful approach to Christmas. From favorite childhood memories to navigating tight budgets, they remind us that the best moments often come from just being together! We hope this episode inspires you to let go of the pressure, focus on what truly matters (Jesus’ birth!), and create meaningful traditions—whether planned or unplanned.Episode Recap:3:08 - Karen and Emily “This or That’ Christmas edition9:30 - Emily’s favorite Christmas memories growing up in the Stubbs’ home11:20 - The best memories aren’t always the ones you plan16:54 - Pick a few things that are important to you and forget the rest18:20 - Some traditions happen organically and end up being the kids’ favorite20:10 - How do I keep the holiday spirit alive as my kids grow?23:00 - Explain the budget to your kids and don’t feel bad about sticking to it25:32 - Mishaps can lead to new traditions and memories.27:30 - Give yourself grace and just enjoy this holiday season! Scripture for Reflection: Luke 2:10-12 (NIV)“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Questions for Discussion:What are some of your favorite childhood holiday memories?How can you simplify your holiday plans this year to focus more on connection and less on perfection?What are some inexpensive ways to create lasting memories with your family during the holiday season?How can you be intentional about letting go of comparison during the holidays?What new traditions could you start as your children grow older and your family’s needs change?Resources:Register for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]Give today to support BOAW Moms and our plans in 2025: boaw.mom/donate

Moms often struggle with guilt and overthinking, especially when it comes to making decisions for their families. In this episode, Karen talks about how to avoid the trap of overanalyzing every choice and instead focus on what brings peace and unity to your family. Whether you're navigating school decisions, holiday traditions, or just everyday challenges, this discussion will help you let go of guilt and embrace the best yes for your family with confidence.Episode Recap:4:00 Navigating mom guilt around holiday decisions7:30 Deciding whether to do Elf on the Shelf13:00 Setting boundaries for attending kids' birthday parties17:45 Learning to communicate clearly with your children before making commitments22:00 Making decisions that are right for YOUR family, without comparisonScripture for Reflection:Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."Questions for Discussion:What kind of mom guilt are you facing in this season of parenting, and how can you let go of it?How do you decide which traditions to embrace and which to let go of?What are some ways you can involve your kids in making decisions, like attending parties or events?How can we give ourselves grace if our plans or decisions don’t look like those of other families?Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]

Navigating the holidays as a grandparent can be tricky, but holding plans with open hands can make all the difference. In this episode, we talk about how to foster unity, embrace flexibility, and keep a spirit of grace at the center of holiday gatherings. Whether you're a mom of grown children or still in the thick of raising kids at home, Karen offers practical tips to help you approach the season with love and understanding.Episode Recap:4:56 Grandparents need to hold holiday plans with open hands7:45 Remember what it was like to be a young adult and all of the pressures they are facing10:00 Be open and flexible to new traditions13:00 Enjoy the kids when they are around and be okay if they are not present some years14:55 Learn how to communicate plans early 16:30 It’s okay for grandparents to spoil the grandkids and overindulge them once a year!19:30 Ask your grown children, “what can I do to make holidays easier/better for you?” 23:00 The holidays aren’t about exactly ‘when’ or ‘how,’ they are about being togetherScripture for Reflection:Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV): "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."Questions for Discussion:In what ways can you be more understanding of the pressures your grown children face during the holiday season?What new traditions could you embrace that might help create a more joyful and flexible holiday experience for everyone?How can you learn to hold your holiday traditions with open hands? Is there anything specific you know will be hard to let go of? What steps can you take to communicate our holiday plans early, while still being considerate of everyone’s needs and desires?How can you maintain a spirit of grace if plans change or things don't go as expected?Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]

Today, DeDe Wilbanks joins us to explore how we can set healthy boundaries around the technology in our homes. With John 10:10 as our guide, DeDe reminds us of our God-given role to protect our children's hearts and minds from the addictive nature of technology. While we can't control everything, we can be intentional about setting limits that nurture our families, trusting God with the rest.Episode Recap:4:30 What downtime and screen time parameters do you put on your devices? 9:43 Is there a right age to give kids a phone? 13:09 Why do screen time limits matter? 15:15 What mistakes have you made when it comes to technology in your home?19:10 I had to learn to enjoy the “no”22:00 How do you actually set limits on the iphone? 31:22 What simple practical tips can you offer to get started?Scripture for Reflection:John 10:10 (NIV) "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”Questions for Discussion:What boundaries are in place around the tech that your kids have access to? (Games, ipads, TV, phones, etc.)Have you made any mistakes with the technology you have allowed in your home? How do you model healthy technology habits for your children? What challenges do you face when setting screen time limits, and how do you handle them?What action steps are you taking after listening to this episode? Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Election Day can bring a lot of uncertainty and even fear into our lives. Today, Karen and Emily remind us to keep our focus on God, no matter who ends up in the White House. They encourage us to pray for our leaders and show us how to foster peace, especially if our families are divided on political views. Karen shares powerful biblical truths to help us navigate the ups and downs of the election season with faith and grace, reminding us that our hope is always in Christ and that we are citizens of heaven. Episode Recap:7:12 How should Christians approach political elections?10:20 What does Jesus say about engaging with governments and politics? 13:04 Daniel 2:21 says God “deposes kings and raises up others”14:30 We have to focus our eyes on God and not our circumstances15:45 Go vote! And also, pray for our leaders17:45 Look at the story of Nebuchadnezzer, God can turn the hearts of evil leaders20:39 We can have different opinions and still love one another21:58 Your children are watching youScripture for Reflection:Romans 13:1 (NIV) "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."Questions for Discussion:Do you enjoy talking about politics, would you rather ignore it, or do you fall somewhere in between? Has this election season disrupted your internal peace?Do you pray for the leaders in our country? Would you be willing to commit to praying for the President Elect until Inauguration Day? Did any of the verses Karen mentioned during this episode resonate with you? What is something you can do to practically apply the message of this conversation? Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]

“You just have to last one second longer…” If you are constantly fighting discipline battles these days, we hope those words stay with you long after this episode! In this conversation, Karen tackles questions about disciplining your younger children. From chaos in the car, to rough play, to bad behavior that only happens at school, Karen offers practical advice for finding consequences that work for your child. Episode Recap:6:37 My four year old is constantly getting in trouble at school - what can we do?12:30 Car rides are the worst! How can I stop the cycle of craziness?17:00 You just have to last one second longer than they do!18:25 My son plays too rough at school - does he need therapy? 21:30 How do I know which things are discipline worthy and which things I should let go? 27:18 My son gets really angry- we don’t want to punish him for feeling emotions, but know we need to find ways to help him regulate, any advice? Scripture for Reflection:Proverbs 29:17 (NIV) “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.”Questions for Discussion:What are some of the biggest discipline challenges you face with your young children?Have you found any specific consequences that seem to work well with your child? What hasn’t worked as well?How do you decide which behaviors are worth disciplining and which ones to let go?How do you handle situations where your child gets very angry? Are there strategies that help them regulate their emotions?Resources:Send Karen your questions using the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas: https://amzn.to/48r4ZkZListen to Wire Talk episode 347 with David Thomas: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/347-raising-emotionally-strong-boys-with-david-thomasA Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring: https://amzn.to/3YmsRloSurvival Guide to Motherhood: https://amzn.to/3NKXXyd

Are your kids’ personalities shaped by their birth order? In today’s episode, Karen and Emily explore how birth order influences personality. They share insights from their own families and tackle questions like, “How do I help my oldest think of others before herself?” and “How can I teach my daughter to let go of things without holding on to everything?” Plus, Emily talks about how she’s using the BOAW Moms app to keep up with studies and episodes!Episode Recap:2:00 Emily is loving using the BOAW Moms app to watch studies and look up podcast episodes3:45 Karen and Emily share how their personalities were shaped by their birth order 7:13 Is it possible to avoid reinforcing birth order stereotypes as a parent?10:25 How do I help my 5 year old let go of things? She wants to hold onto all the things!15:24 How do I help my oldest daughter think of others before herself? 20:45 How do I help nurture my daughter’s kindness? 24:50 Send in your question on the app using the “Ask Karen” sectionScripture for Reflection:Galatians 6:9 (NASB) “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.” Questions for Discussion:How do you think birth order has influenced your children’s personalities? Can you see any traits that match typical birth order stereotypes?How do you encourage your child to let go of unnecessary items or habits without making them feel pressured?What did you think of Karen’s story about taking Kelsey to the Dominican Republic and the change she saw in her heart afterwards? Is that something you have done or would consider doing with your children? Karen mentioned several times that some issues we see in our kids are heart issues while others are merely maturity issues (things they will grow out of)- do you feel like you can tell the difference in your children? Resources:Check out Karen’s new study: The Counter-Intuitive Parent on Right Now Media or from the BOAW Moms store Download the BOAW Moms app: [App Store] [Google Play]Kevin Leman’s Birth Order book: https://amzn.to/3AdPCzI

“There is nothing that beats conversation with our kids.” Today we’re chatting with Erin Mashaw about the new book she co-authored, A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity. We touch on purity culture, pornography, and the constantly shifting cultural values around us. Erin shared the importance of having small conversations early and often and offered practical tips for getting over the awkwardness! Our hope is that you will be encouraged to engage in new conversations this week in your home and feel equipped that YOU are the best source of information for your child. Psst - pop some earbuds in for this one! Episode Recap:3:20 What is the difference between integrity and purity? 6:54 ‘The Talk’ is no longer one marathon session, it’s simpler than that! 8:30: Is it possible to make these conversations less awkward?11:37 Your mind is your most important sex organ 14:00 Teach your kids to live by the Integrity Code18:30 How do we share the truth that the historical biblical sexual ethic is loving and not exclusive with kids who are seeing something different all around them?20:30 It’s parents’ job to be the first voice speaking to our children a consistent message on sexuality24:00 What do moms need to know about protecting our (even young) kids from being sexualized online? 30:10 It’s never too late to start this conversation! 33:00 God is writing your child’s story and His Holy Spirit will guide you as you lead your kids in this area of their livesScripture for Reflection:Deuteronomy 11:18-19 (NIV): “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Questions for Discussion:When did you begin talking with your kids about topics related to sex? If you haven’t started yet, what’s holding you back? Did this episode encourage you to initiate those conversations in your home?How do you define sexual integrity versus purity, and why do you think this distinction is important when talking with your children? What stood out to you in Erin’s explanation?How can you be proactive in protecting your children from exposure to inappropriate content online? What strategies have worked for you, or what new steps could you take based on the information shared in this episode?What does it look like to trust God with your child’s journey while still being intentional about shaping their understanding of sexual integrityResources:Check out Karen’s new study: The Counter-Intuitive Parent on Right Now Media or from the BOAW Moms store Grab a copy of A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity Jim Burns book, God Made Your Body, How God Makes BabiesMore resources from HomeWord ministry: https://homeword.com/ Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]

When your kids are little, the challenges of day-to-day parenting often pit one spouse against another. Today Karen and Emily are answering questions from weary moms. They discuss practical ways you can connect with your spouse, strategies for handling the stress that comes with parenting young children, and remind us of the importance of prioritizing our husband’s needs during this season of life. Episode Recap:4:50 BIG announcement coming later this month - get the app to be the first to know 10:45 How do we find time to connect as spouses with 3 little kids at home? 15:05: Help! My 3 yr old twins are pitting us against one another! 17:14 Our marriage is struggling! We need help. 22:20 Ask your spouse: what is one way I can love you better this month? 25:20 I want to move back to where my family lives. What do you think we should do?Scripture for Reflection:Mark 10:9 (NIV): “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”Questions for Discussion:How do you currently prioritize connection with your spouse while raising young children? What practical strategies have worked for you, and where do you feel there’s room for improvement?How do you and your spouse handle conflict when your children (especially young ones) try to pit you against one another? Do you feel like you have a united front, or is this something you struggle with?What’s one way you could better support your husband’s needs during this busy season of life? Have you asked him how you can show love to him in the coming weeks?When making major family decisions, such as moving or changing jobs, how do you and your spouse communicate and weigh each other’s opinions? What steps do you take to ensure that both of your voices are heard?Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]Watch the Parenting Together curriculum in the app! [App Store] [Google Play]

Understanding how your child is wired can be a key to resolving conflict in your home! In today's episode, Karen dives into the dynamics of family conflict and emphasizes how important it is to recognize your child's personality type. By taking the time to understand their unique traits, we can cultivate patience and empathy in our relationships. Join us as we explore practical ways to bear with one another instead of butting heads!Episode Recap:6:08 I’m worried about my 9 yr old son’s lack of sociability…should I be? 9:05 My daughter and I are constantly butting heads! Help!12:15 What are the four core needs of the Red personality? 14:08 How did your husband being away for so long affect your children and the home? 18:32 My 1st grade daughter’s social awkwardness is affecting her relationships, what can I do? Scripture for Reflection:Ephesians 4:2 (NIV): Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.Questions for Discussion:How well do you know each of your children’s personalities? Share with the group the personalities of each of your family members. Do any of the personalities in your family butt heads more so than others? Can you see how taking personalities into account could create a more peaceful home? Refer to the four needs of each personality type in the resource packet linked below: do any needs stand out that you could work to be more mindful of in your parenting?  Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]Not sure your child’s color? Take our Colors Personality quizPrint off the FREE personality resource packet from BOAW

Today we’re diving into the idea of being a countercultural parent. Join us as Karen shares how important it is to parent in a way that aligns with God’s will instead of seeking the approval of others. From practical tips on renewing your mind to choosing God as your guiding “North Star,” Karen offers encouragement to moms who may feel out of step with the world – but exactly in step with God’s design. Episode Recap:3:51 Karen shares about her newest curriculum, The Counter Intuitive Parent8:36 How have you seen parenting trends/choices change over the years?11:38 Were you always countercultural as a parent or did you change as you realized you needed to parent differently from the world? 16:25 What worldly patterns do you see affecting families right now? 19:05 What can a mom do today to renew her mind? 23:00 God is our “North Star” as believers26:30 There is a lot on the horizon for BOAW Moms this year! Scripture for Reflection:Romans 12:2 (NIV) – "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”Galatians 1:10 (NIV) - “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”Questions for Discussion:What parenting “trends” have you noticed in the circles you are parenting in these days? Do you feel pressure to conform to any of them? Karen spoke about renewing your mind and making choices for your family based on God’s will rather than the world’s expectations. How can you practically begin to “renew your mind” in your daily parenting?In what ways do you feel countercultural as a parent? Have there been moments where you doubted your approach because it went against what society expects?How can you make God your “North Star” in your decision-making as a parent? What are some distractions that keep you from doing this, and how can you overcome them?Resources:Download the Birds on a Wire Moms app now for FREE wherever you get your apps: [App Store] [Google Play]Check out The Counter Intuitive Parent available now through Right Now Media): https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/883497

Today Karen is answering questions from moms whose kids are in college or working and living on their own for the first time. She shares how to support them without enabling them, how to gently guide them toward wise-decision making, and how to encourage them toward maturity while simultaneously stepping back. She also reminds us that now, more than ever, is the time to get on your knees and PRAY for your kids! Moms, this season is hard, but the fruit of these years is worth the investment of time and energy. Episode Recap:3:41 How do I help my college-age daughter who is already struggling with time management while she’s away? She’s calling me in tears weekly!8:00 I feel like my son is growing apart from us as a young adult living in another state. Is this normal? How can I adjust my mindset? 13:02 My daughter calls me all the time about every little thing now that she’s living on her own. How can I help her be more confident in her decision making? 17:18 I think my son could be classified as “failure to launch” at this point in time. How can I get him to think about his future seriously?!Scripture for Reflection:Philippians 1:9-10 (NIV) – "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ."Questions for Discussion:Were there any suggestions Karen offered during this episode that surprised you? Which ones did you love? When your young adult is constantly seeking advice, how do you balance offering support with encouraging them to develop their own confidence in decision-making?Do you struggle with feelings of separation or distance when your child is living far from home? What are some practical things you could do (besides visiting!) to close that relational gap? What are some practical ways we can support our young adults in their independence without overstepping or enabling them?In what specific ways can you be praying for your young adult as they transition into greater independence? Do you think prayer influences your ability to trust God in this season?Resources:Jump in on the Survival Guide to Motherhood study this fall! Today is the last day to register: boaw.mom/SGTMDownload the Birds on a Wire Moms app FOR FREE wherever you get your apps! Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events

Literacy coach Welsley Jongko joins us in the studio today to talk about the process of learning to read and to encourage those of us who have beginning readers at home! She explains the current reading crisis in America and the simple but effective things parents can do to support their children on their way to become lifelong readers. There are so many great tips and resources shared in the conversation today, be sure you check the links in today’s show notes! Episode Recap:2:11 Welsley is a literacy coach supporting teachers in the K-5 school system4:00 Karen shares the story of Abby’s dyslexia diagnosis 7:56 Tips for parents who are already overwhelmed by the new school year9:40 How can parents help foster a love of learning in their child? 12:12 Is there a difference between a late learner and a struggling reader?16:00 What are the red flags your child is struggling to read? 23:08 Additional early signs of dyslexia26:00 What is the problem with “whole language” instruction? 30:37 Tips and strategies for helping your beginning reader enjoy the process34:15 More resources from Welsley Jongko on learning to readScripture for Reflection: Proverbs 3:13 (NIV) “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.”Questions for Discussion:Did Welsley’s insights on the reading crisis in America resonate with your own experiences? Have you had or do you have a child who struggles with reading? Were there any strategies or suggestions for helping your child that stood out to you as particularly helpful?Fostering a love of learning is crucial for young readers. Does reading aloud happen regularly in your home? What are some favorite books in your family? Have you ever tried listening to audiobooks together? Is this an area you can grow in as a family? Resources:Welsley’s book, Teach Me to Read: https://amzn.to/4d1lJAeFollow Little Literacy Nook! @littleliteracynookMore resources on Welsley’s website: https://littleliteracynook.comSold a Story podcast on flawed reading instruction: https://features.apmreports.org/sold-a-story/ The reading crisis among elementary students in America: https://edtrust.org/blog/the-literacy-crisis-in-the-u-s-is-deeply-concerning-and-totally-preventable/#:~:text=Last%20year%2C%20the%20National%20Assessment,a%20proficient%20level%20in%20reading.Love Every Reading Skills Set: https://lovevery.com/pages/the-reading-skill-setCome hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/eventsJoin our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

Today Karen is answering questions from moms juggling packed schedules, managing family commitments, and trying to make a little time for themselves! From balancing kids' activities with family time to learning when to say no, in this episode you’ll hear practical advice to help you protect your energy and prioritize what matters most. Pop in those earbuds or grab a basket of laundry to fold and let's figure out what your best "yes" is for this season.Episode Recap:- 3:57 Survival Guide to Motherhood is now available as an online course! Register today- 6:14 My schedule is packed and I was recently asked to lead a group at church. I want to say no, but how can I?  - 8:37 I’m conflicted about travel sports - help! - 12:31 I’m exhausted, how do I stay connected to my husband in this season of parenting?- 15:42 How can I set boundaries now to avoid overcommitment in the future? Scripture for Reflection:Matthew 6:33 (NIV) "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”Questions for Discussion:How do you evaluate whether a commitment is a “best yes” for your family? What criteria do you use to make sure your commitments support your family’s well-being?How can you ensure that your marriage remains a priority amidst the busyness of life? Is this easy for you or is it a struggle? Karen talks about dividing your time into three categories: essentials, non-negotiables, and bonuses. How do you currently categorize your commitments? What activities or priorities fall into each category in your life? Are there any adjustments you feel called to make after reflecting on this concept?What strategies can you implement to create intentional rest and unstructured family time in your weekly routine?Resources:Register for Survival Guide to Motherhood today: www.boaw.mom/SGTM Use coupon code THRIVE for your exclusive Wire Talk listener discount.Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/eventsJoin our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

Today Karen and Emily dive into the dynamics of marriage and parenting, reminding us that we are not our husband's Holy Spirit! Karen talks about letting go of the urge to control her husband's spiritual journey, addresses differences in parenting styles, and offers practical wisdom for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with doing life together. Lean in for practical advice rooted in love and respect, remembering that it is God who ultimately guides our growth.Episode Recap:5:15 How do I let go of my husband’s lack of a quiet time? 7:41 Our job is to love and respect our husbands8:00 My husband is harsh when he disciplines, what do I do? 11:29 How can I get my husband to take more initiative?15:55 My husband’s moodiness brings me down! Scripture for Reflection:1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 (NIV): "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."Questions for Discussion:Can you relate to the feeling of wanting to control your husband's spiritual walk? When has this happened in your own marriage, and how have you handled it?In what ways have you seen differences in parenting styles between you and your spouse? What strengths does your husband’s style bring to the family? What strengths does your style bring? Do you think you make a good team or is there a lack of balance?Do you ever struggle with resentment or feeling overwhelmed in your role as a wife and mother? What steps have you taken to address these feelings, and how did your husband respond?When your husband is in a "blue mood," how do you typically react? Have you found any strategies that help both of you during those times, and how do you maintain your own emotional balance?Reflecting on the idea of giving space in your marriage, how have you or your husband used space to deescalate tensions? What are some practical ways you’ve implemented this in your relationship?Resources:Check out BOAW’s curriculum Parenting Together (from Preschool to Prom): https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/studies/products/parenting-together-digital-videoCome hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/eventsJoin our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms