r/ChristianParentAdvice

Hey everyone, just looking for some honest advice or perspective from other parents.

My kids are getting older, and between school, sports, and screens, by the time bedtime rolls around we're all exhausted. I really want to build a consistent habit of talking about faith and values at home, but lately it feels like I'm forcing it.

Traditional storybooks and devotionals just aren't holding their attention anymore—they tune out after a couple of minutes, and I hate that it's starting to feel like "homework" for them.

For those of you who have managed to make bedtime chats or devotions something your kids actually look forward to—what made the difference?

Did you switch to discussion cards, hands-on activity kits, or something totally different? And how do you keep them engaged past the first week without it losing its novel feeling?

Would love to hear what's actually working in your homes (and what ended up being a waste of money). Thanks so much!

My husband and I have a 2 1/2 year old and baby due in the next couple weeks. We are struggling with boundaries with our non Christian family members. I am feeling very uneasy and scared to let my in-laws baby sit my toddler. They have directly went against my very simple rules, like not too much dessert, no swearing, and no sexual talk about or around our family. They have done all of these things and continue to do so. We also don’t see them often so I’ve never really experienced them interact with our toddler. I feel sad for my husband because I know he wants his mom in ours son’s lives. It also might be worth noting she just recently got married to someone who we both don’t really know. He’s more of the problem in this situation. I guess I’m looking for advice on how to move forward in a loving way.