There was a time when I couldn’t tell the difference between a meltdown and defiance.
When our boys were very young, they would stomp or slam doors or throw something across the room when they were upset, my gut response was: How dare you? That's unacceptable!
Because that’s what I’d been taught to believe - about children, about behavior, and about what “respect” should look like.
But slowly, Jesus began softening my eyes.
When it comes to obedience, one of the biggest mindset shifts we can make is seeing it as more than just rule-following- it’s about relationship. In Peacemaker Parenting, obedience isn’t about control; it’s about connection, trust, and discipleship. In this post, we’re answering your biggest questions about obedience so you can move beyond power struggles and into a more peaceful, Jesus-centered approach.
One of the most frequently asked questions we get, when it comes to behavior challenges, is "What do I do when my child tries to hit me or their sibling?" The good news is: hitting is a very typical behavior for toddlers and early preschoolers. The bad news is: hitting is a very typical behavior for toddlers and early preschoolers.
If you're in the throes of hitting (do you see what we did there?), we know it is one of the most challenging moments to face. Whether it’s a sibling, a friend, or even us, hitting feels like a big deal, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But instead of reacting with frustration or anger, Peacemaker Parenting encourages us to approach these moments with calmness, empathy, and clear boundaries. In the heat of the moment, our kids need us to be the steady ones—teaching them not just how to stop hitting, but to understand and handle their emotions in a healthier way.
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If you've ever handed your child a carefully chosen gift, only to hear, “Is that all?” you’re not alone. As parents, we’ve all had moments when our kids seem more focused on what they’re getting than on the love or effort behind it. It’s easy to feel discouraged, especially in a culture where advertising and peer pressure scream that more is better, and "enough" is never enough.
But here's the good news: gratitude is learned. And as Christian parents, we have the unique opportunity to teach our children that thankfulness isn’t just about the gifts—it’s about recognizing the heart of the giver and the provision of a loving God who supplies all our needs.
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For many of us, emotions can feel like a mixed blessing—“positive” emotions give spice and vitality to life, while “negative” emotions are the obstacles that lead us into sin and thus are something to suppress. But what if emotions, both the delightful ones and the uncomfortable ones are a precious gift from God?
