CapCity Kidz

5 Things Parents Do To Destroy Their Kids Faith!!

2012-01-26T13:10:00.001-05:00

In the Book of Luke, we see children running to get in the presence of Jesus, but His disciples strongly warned them to keep their space and give Jesus some breathing room.

Check out what Jesus thought about this deal as it was going down…

Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” Luke 18:15-17

I believe this can also be taken as a strong warning to parents!! DON’T get in the way of your kiddos coming to Jesus!!

Here are 5 things that I believe parents do that keep their kids from coming to Jesus…

HYPOCRISY: This morning on the way to school, Team Sprad, had a really interesting conversation regarding hypocrisy. This could also be named the “do as I say – not as I do” syndrome. Do you struggle with this? Do you erupt in anger and coach your kids to walk in patience? Do you yell at your kids or spouse and get on to your kiddos for disrespect. There are a million examples we could talk through, but I encourage you to try this ACTION POINT. Sit down with your kids, talk through hypocrisy and give your kids permission to point out mom and dad’s areas of hypocrisy. Yeah, this is a bit dangerous but it’s one way to get out of your kid’s way to experiencing the person of Jesus.
WHAT YOU DO SCREAMS SO LOUD I CAN’T HEAR WHAT YOU SAY: You can continue to train, teach and preach to your kids…but do they see you up early in the Word of God, do they know that you have specific time set aside for prayer, during church worship do they see you distracted or engaging in intimate worship? Here is the point…I think parents should continue to train, teach and preach when it makes sense. However, I also believe that kids will emulate and follow their parents when they see their parents actually practicing what they preach. Parents, you can’t LEAD what your not living out.
UNBELIEF: There was a time in my life when I was really wrestling with the concept of tithes and offerings, therefore I didn’t teach my kids to give to God what was His first. I think you get the idea. My question for you is… do you really believe? Do you really believe God is the healer, that God is present in pain, that God can be trusted in your leaps of faith, that God’s promises can be stood upon? Parents, if you struggle with unbelief you WILL be a hindrance in your kids coming to Jesus.
THE SLIPPERY SLOPE OF OSMOSIS: Many of you have heard this from me before, but I believe that most parents try to deposit Jesus in their kids life by osmosis. So many of us are so busy that we hope that our kids pick Jesus stuff up just by being around us. I do believe that osmosis is a great way to communicate Jesus to our kids, but we must also spend strategic time teaching and training our kids about Jesus. I received an email from someone this week that is reading Christian apologetics to their kids before school, doing a Beth Moore study with her daughter in the evening as well as memorizing scripture with her kids throughout the week. Parents…set aside some time this week and create a calendar, write in specific days and times that you will teach and train your kids about Jesus. I am sure you have heard the phrase… “fail to plan – plan to fail”. I believe this is also true when passing Jesus on to our kids.
CHURCH: Seems simple, but I believe wholeheartedly in the power of and God’s mandate in the local church. I have several great friends that have not made church a priority in their kids lives. Now I don’t think kids should go to church for a check mark, but to experience the power of God and worship with their friends. I strongly believe that parents that do not make the discipline of attending church a priority for their family…the chances are greater that their kids will walk away from their faith in the future.

I read this blog post today and thought it was worth repeating. It was taken from the blog site, EpicParent.tv. Chris Spradlin is a very honest parent who shares his wins and wounds of parenting along the journey of life. Enjoy ...
PStaci

Lunch with Jessica

2012-01-23T17:42:00.000-05:00

I had lunch with Jessica on Friday. She ordered Wendy's, so we "had" to get Frosty's, too -- you cannot go to Wendy's without getting a Frosty! ;) I recently had lunch with Jessica and I asked her all of her favorite things, so today, I wanted to ask what her top 5 things to do in life were:
1. She would like to have a solar powered house.
2. She would like to own her own zoo.
3. She would like to get a scholarship for college.
4. She would like to visit her Fairbanks friends.
5. She would like to have good friends in high school.

I loved hanging out with Jessica!

Love you, Jessica!

PStaci

Lunch with Danny

2012-01-23T17:32:00.000-05:00

I had a wonderful lunch with Danny! He ordered McDonald's and I got to meet some of his friends, too ... and a couple of them he invited to movie night and they came! It was awesome to see them!

Here are a few things I learned about Danny:

Favorite baseball team: Clippers
Favorite Bible story: Joseph

Favorite book: Spiderwick

Favorite cake: chocolate

Favorite candy: lollipop
Favorite car: Bumblebee Yellow Mustang
Favorite cartoon character: Gregory from Wimpy Kid

Favorite church song: Back to the Manger

Favorite college football team: OSU

Favorite color: red

Favorite cookie: chocolate chip
Favorite dessert: ice cream

Favorite drink: coke
Favorite extra curricular activity: soccer

Favorite food: McDonald's

Favorite friend at church: Jelani

Favorite friend at school: Jordan

Favorite fruit: apple

Favorite game: Dance Praise (at church)
Favorite hockey team: Bluejackets

Favorite ice cream: chocolate

Favorite large animal: lion

Favorite movie: Harry Potter

Favorite number: 100
Favorite outside game: target practice
Favorite place you would like to go: Universal Studios
Favorite restaurant: Hunan Lion
Favorite sibling: Zack/MJ

Favorite small animal: puppy
Favorite sport: soccer
Favorite store: Walmart

Favorite subject in school: gym, OAA testing, Homework, Math and Reading (wow!!!)
Favorite summer activity: Boy Scouts/Day Camp
Favorite teacher: Mr. Dietry
Favorite TV show: Ninjago
Favorite vegetable: carrots
Favorite winter activity: snowball fights
Favorite word: incredible
What do you want to be when you grow up: 1.) Airforce Soldier, 2.) engineer, 3.) Run for Congress

Danny, I had a great lunch with you and I loved meeting your friends, too! For what you want to be when you grow up, I LOVE that you dream big ... I can actually see you running for Congress someday! Always put Jesus first in EVERYTHING you do!

Love you,
PStaci

Movie Night: January 20

2012-01-14T18:07:00.000-05:00

Movie Night for CapCity Kidz (PreK-Elementary) will be THIS Friday, January 20 from 6:00-9:00 pm. Please bring $3, a snack to share and LOTS OF FRIENDS!!! First time guests will receive a special prize!

Click here for a page you can download to share with your friends ...

Also, to fill out the online permission slip, please click here.

Please RSVP to let me know who will be coming!

Lunch with Amelia

2011-12-20T14:18:00.001-05:00

Amelia and PS

I had a great lunch with Amelia last Friday! She wanted McDonald's and we had such a great conversation, as always! I also got to meet a couple of her friends. One of them had come to movie night before, so it was good to see her and meet the other one!

Here are a few things I learned about Amelia:

Favorite baseball team: Cincinnati Reds
Favorite Bible story: Esther

Favorite book: Penderwicks

Favorite cake: chocolate

Favorite candy: chocolate
Favorite cartoon character: Phineas and Ferb

Favorite church song: Take It All

Favorite college football team: OSU

Favorite color: orange

Favorite cookie: chocolate chip
Favorite dessert: cookies

Favorite drink: Shirley Temple
Favorite extra curricular activity: dance

Favorite food: pasta

Favorite friends at church (in no particular order): Grace, Breanna, Taylor, Dylan, Bryce

Favorite friends at school (in no particular order): Alissa, Emma, Kayla, Anna, Allison, Elizabeth

Favorite fruit: strawberry

Favorite game: Clue

Favorite ice cream: cookies and cream

Favorite large animal: giraffe

Favorite movie: Muppets

Favorite number: 15
Favorite outside game: Foursquare
Favorite place you would like to go: Paris
Favorite restaurant: Chocolate Cafe
Favorite sibling: Sofia

Favorite small animal: Roxy (Maltese Yorkie)
Favorite sport: (to play) basketball/softball; (to watch) football/basketball
Favorite store: Claire's

Favorite subject in school: History/Science
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Murry
Favorite TV show: Phineas and Ferb
Favorite vacation spot: beach
Favorite vegetable: carrots
Favorite video game: iPod touch
Favorite winter activity: sledding
Favorite word: supercalifragilisticexpialidocious
What do you want to be when you grow up: actress

Meems, you are a sweetie! Thanks for being such a sweet young lady! I'm so thankful that you're in my life! God has big things in store for you! Can't wait to be a part of His plans!

Love you so,

PStaci

Lunch with Faith

2011-12-02T18:38:00.001-05:00

PS & Faith

I had a great lunch with Faith! She chose Arby's for me to pick up and bring to her at school -- another favorite of mine! On the way out of the church in "just" enough time to go to Arby's and get to the school 5 minutes early, my tire was completely flat! :( Pastor Brent was outside with a friend and they came and pumped it up and plugged it where the nearly 2 in steel screw had been! UUUGH! I made it just 2 minutes late! Thanks, Faithy for being so patient and waiting for me! :) I had a great lunch time with you!

Here are a few things I learned about Faith:

Favorite baseball team: Columbus Clippers
Favorite Bible story: Esther

Favorite book: Cam Jansen mysteries

Favorite cake: chocolate

Favorite candy: chocolate

Favorite car: mini-vans

Favorite church song: Shout Your Fame

Favorite college football team: OSU

Favorite color: blue-green

Favorite cookie: cinnamon

Favorite drink: lemonade

Favorite food: hamburger pie

Favorite friend at church: Lydia

Favorite friend at school: Claire

Favorite fruit: bananas

Favorite game: dodge ball

Favorite ice cream: cookie dough

Favorite large animal: red pandas

Favorite movie: Larry Boy

Favorite number: 3
Favorite restaurant: Papa John's

Favorite small animal: chinchilla

Favorite subject in school: Reading
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite teacher: Miss Copple
Favorite TV show: Phineas and Ferb
Favorite vacation spot: Myrtle Beach
Favorite vegetable: carrots
Favorite winter activity: catching snowflakes in my mouth
What do you want to be when you grow up: veterinarian

Faith, I loved getting to spend time with you! You are so special to God and to me! He has big plans for you and I'm so glad I get to be a part of your life!

Love you!
PStaci

Cars2: CapCity Kidz Movie Night

2011-11-21T17:29:00.000-05:00

We had a great night watching Cars2 -- and a GREAT turn-out of kids 3 up through 6th grade! Thanks to Liz, Kiersten, and Natasha for making the night run smoothly! Enjoy the show!

Personalize a free slideshow

Thriving Family Magazine

2011-11-21T16:49:00.000-05:00

A great site for families ... here!

Lunch with Ricky

2011-11-21T15:49:00.000-05:00

PS & Ricky

I had a wonderful lunch with Ricky on Friday! It was my first time to go to a middle school -- and I loved getting to meet Eric, Ricky's closest school friend. Listed below are some things I learned about Ricky ...

Favorite Bible story: all

Favorite book: 39 Clues

Favorite cake: all

Favorite candy: gum

Favorite car: all fast cars

Favorite church song: all

Favorite college football team: OSU

Favorite color: green

Favorite cookie: chocolate

Favorite dessert: candy

Favorite drink: soda

Favorite food: spaghetti

Favorite friend at church: Alex

Favorite friend at school: Eric

Favorite fruit: orange

Favorite game: Mario

Favorite ice cream: chocolate

Favorite large animal: whale

Favorite movie: Tron

Favorite number: 12

Favorite outside game: hockey

Favorite place you would like to go: Africa

Favorite sibling: Claire and Jackson

Favorite small animal: mouse/rat

Favorite subject in school: Science

Ricky, I think you are one special young man! I'm so glad God has allowed me to get to know you! He has AMAZING plans for you and I'm very happy to be a part of your life!

Love you!

GodTime: Week of November 20

2011-11-18T17:03:00.000-05:00

Click here for a downloadable copy for your frig! You can help your child with the weekly reading using this page -- and also find out what songs we've learned for "The Present is the Future" Christmas Musical.

Thanks,

PStaci

GodTime: Week of November 13

2011-11-12T12:13:00.000-05:00

Thanks,

PStaci

Parenting Tip: Three Basic Family Rules

2011-11-11T22:49:00.000-05:00

Rules are important in family life. They clarify expectations and provide opportunities for parents to teach about values. Some parents, however, rely too heavily on rules. They develop lists and family life boils down to a bunch of do's and don'ts.  

Remember that rules tend to focus on behavior and may miss the heart. But, if you use rules wisely and talk often about why the rules are helpful, you can teach your children a great deal about the values you want to pass on. As you begin setting rules for young children, we would suggest three simple rules:  

Obey
Show Honor
Be Kind  

Almost any infraction in family life can fall under one of these three. Having just a few rules is especially good for young children. These three become the basis for most other rules as children get older. Each of them represents an important character quality. These rules are simple and introduce young children to the fact that certain guidelines dictate what's expected in family life. Talk about them often as you teach and discipline your children. This will help you do heart work even at a young age.

Blog post taken from www.biblicalparenting.org .

CapCity Kidz Movie Night

2011-11-11T14:04:00.001-05:00

YOU ARE INVITED TO ...
WHAT? CapCity Kidz Movie Night (potty-trained 3’s - 6th grade)
WHEN? Friday, November 18, 6:00-9:00 pm
WHERE? Capital City Church, 1290 Old Henderson Road, Columbus
BRING? $3.00, snack to share

And yes, we'll be watching Cars 2!!! The younger kiddos will be downstairs in the Toddler Room watching their own age-appropriate movie! :) Those who want to stay upstairs may do so, but they have to stay in one spot -- no moving upstairs and then wanting to go downstairs! :)

Click here for the online permission form OR I'll have permission slips at the church for those of you who didn't fill one out online.

PLEASE RSVP to the Capital City Church Event page -- or email me.

Also, click here to download a page with 4 postcard sized invitations.

Lunch with Drew

2011-11-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

PS & Drew

I had a great lunch with Drew yesterday! He wanted Arby's -- another one of my faves! I had fun learning a little more about Drew ... check it out below!

Favorite baseball team: Reds
Favorite Bible story: Jonah
Favorite cake: vanilla
Favorite candy: smarties
Favorite car: green camaro with a white stripe
Favorite cartoon character: Bugs Bunny
Favorite church song: I am Free
Favorite college football team: North Carolina
Favorite color: white, green, purple, orange
Favorite cookie: sugar
Favorite dessert: ice cream
Favorite drink: Mt. Dew
Favorite extra curricular activity: video games
Favorite food: orange chicken
Favorite friend at church: Eli
Favorite friend at school: Cole
Favorite ice cream: vanilla with sprinkles
Favorite large animal: horse
Favorite movie: Transformers
Favorite number: 33
Favorite outside game: football
Favorite place you like to go: Kings Island
Favorite restaurant: Donatos
Favorite relative: Grandma and Grandpa
Favorite small animal: dog
Favorite sport: basketball, baseball, football, & nascar
Favorite store: Gamestop
Favorite subject: Reading
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Kerns
Favorite TV show: Sports Center
Favorite vegetable: french fries :)
Favorite video game: Madden 08
Favorite winter activity: sledding
What do you want to be when you grow up? athlete

Drew, I had a really good time getting to know you better! You have something special about you and I know that God has big plans for you! I'm so excited to be a part of your life and love being your Kids Pastor!

Love you!
PStaci

Parenting Tip: Taking Those You Love For Granted

2011-11-11T10:51:00.000-05:00

We tend to take for granted those we are closest to. It was Jesus who said "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor." If we're not careful, the family can be a place where people take each other for granted. The phrase, "Familiarity breeds contempt" says the same thing.

We believe that the solution to this dilemma is to continually grow in honor. Honor treats people as special and looks for ways to value others.

One day a man came home and found his house a disaster. The kids were still in their pajamas outside playing in the mud. Empty food boxes and wrappers littered the house. Dishes were on the counter, dog food was all over the floor and a broken glass lay under the table. Toys and clothes cluttered the playroom and a lamp was lying on its side. He headed up the stairs, stepping over toys, looking for his wife. He was worried that she was sick, or that something worse might have happened. He found her in the bedroom, still in bed with her pajamas on, reading a book. She looked up at him, smiled, and asked, "How was your day?"

"What in the world happened here today?"

She again smiled and answered, "You know everyday when you come home from work and ask me what I did today?"

"Yes. . . ?"

"Well, today I didn't do it!"

Take a moment and consider who in your family you've been taking for granted. Give a little time to show honor.

Blog post taken from www.biblicalparenting.org.

Lunch with Ryan

2011-11-05T22:08:00.001-04:00

PS & Ryan

I had a great lunch with Ryan! He wanted chicken nuggets, fries and a Sprite (with lots of ketchup packets!)

Here are a few things I learned about Ryan:

Favorite Bible story: Noah's Ark
Favorite book: Little Red Hen
Favorite cake: chocolate
Favorite candy: Snickers
Favorite cartoon character: Phineas
Favorite color: red
Favorite cookie: chocolate chip
Favorite drink: Mt. Dew
Favorite food: burgers
Favorite friend at church: the other Ryan (Ryan B)
Favorite friend at school: Dylan
Favorite fruit: apple
Favorite ice cream: chocolate/vanilla
Favorite large animal: great white shark
Favorite movie: Toy Story 3
Favorite number: 900
Favorite outside game: soccer
Favorite place you would like to go: Disney
Favorite restaurant: Wendy's
Favorite sibling: Roshan
Favorite small animal: lion
Favorite sport: soccer
Favorite store: Walmart
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Jones
Favorite TV show: Phineas & Ferb
Favorite vegetable: carrots
Favorite video game: Dragon Ball Z
Favorite winter activity: snowball fights
What do you want to be when you grow up? scientist

Ryan, I had a great lunch with you on Friday! You have a great school and friends! I loved meeting your teacher, too! God has big plans for you, Ryan -- and I'm so glad you are a part of CapCity Kidz!

Love ya!

PStaci

GodTime: November 6

2011-11-04T16:46:00.000-04:00

Click here to print a hard copy for the week of Sunday, November 6th for your frig! :)

Lunch with Alex

2011-11-04T14:07:00.000-04:00

I had lunch with Alex last week and had a great time getting to know him better! He wanted Subway -- one of my favorites!

Things I learned about Alex:

Favorite food: Subway
Favorite drink: Mt. Dew
Favorite color: red
Favorite sport: football
Favorite ice cream: vanilla
Favorite dessert: cake
Favorite candy: licorice
Favorite candy bar: Hershey
Favorite outside game: Capture the Flag
Favorite inside game: computer
Favorite movie: Rio
Favorite video: Halo 4
Favorite teacher: Mr. Hollinger
Favorite sibling: Bubba
Favorite best friend at school: Chris
Favorite best friend at church: Nicholas
Favorite bible story: Jonah
Favorite song at church: Shout Your Fame
Favorite winter activity: snowball fights
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite large animal: moose
Favorite small animal: dog
Favorite car: lamborghini
Favorite subject: Math
What do you want to be when you grow up? 1.) video game inventor; 2.) doctor; 3.) fireman

Alex, I had a great lunch with you and I'm so glad you are at CapCity! :) God has big things in store for you!

Love ya!
PStaci

The week of October 30th GodTime ... The Present Is The Future

2011-10-27T17:27:00.000-04:00

Click here to print a hard copy for the week of Sunday, October 30th for your frig! :)

Keys for Kids ... DELIVERED TO YOUR MAILBOX!!!!

2011-10-27T14:16:00.000-04:00

Dear Parents,

If you and your kids are enjoying "Keys for Kids" devotionals that I purchase every 2 months for your kids, there is a way to get them delivered right to your home! Click here if you'd like to sign up. If you have multiple children, you can only get one free devotional per email/address.

Thought this was a great thing for kids to get in the mail! :) I just ordered one for my niece!

Enjoy!
PStaci

P.S. Please let me know if you decide to do this as I'll order less in the bi-monthly subscription. Thanks!

The Present is the Future (dates and practice times)

2011-10-27T10:45:00.001-04:00

The Present is the Future Christmas Musical

DATES AND PRACTICE TIMES

Sunday, October 30, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, November 2, solo/speaker practice, 6:00-6:50 pm
Sunday, November 6, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, November 9, solo/speaker practice, 6:00-6:50 pm
Sunday, November 13, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, November 16, solo/speaker practice, 6:00-6:50 pm
Sunday, November 20, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, November 23, no Wednesday ministries due to Thanksgiving
Sunday, November 27, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, November 30, solo/speaker practice, 6:00-6:50 pm
Saturday, December 3, The Present Is the Future rehearsal ALL kids, 10:00-12:00 am
Sunday, December 4, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, December 7, everyone practice, 6:00-6:50 pm
Saturday, December 10, Breakfast with Santa, 10:00-11:30 am
***NOTE TIME CHANGE -- Saturday, December 10, The Present Is the Future rehearsal ALL kids, 11:30 am–1:30 pm
Sunday, December 11, The Present Is the Future practice, 10 am
Wednesday, December 14, everyone rehearsal, 6:00-6:50 pm
Saturday, December 17, EVERYONE final dress rehearsal, 9:00-noon + lunch
Sunday, December 18, The Present Is the Future (CapCity Kidz (1^st-6^th) be in room 210 by 9:30 dressed and ready to go!
Parents, THANK YOU for all you do and for getting kids to practices!

Lunch with Jessica

2011-10-21T14:20:00.000-04:00

PS & Jessica!

I had such a great lunch with Jessica today! I got to meet her teacher, and some of her friends at lunch, too. We had Subway - one of my favorite places to eat. I learned a lot about Jessica today, too. Read below!

Jess, you are a sweetheart and I'm so glad I'm your Kids Pastor! You have such a pretty smile and I see so much potential in you! So proud of who you are and who you're becoming! Always keep letting your light shine for Jesus!

Love you, PStaci

Favorite Bible story:	Samson & Delilah
Favorite book:	Heaven Is For Real
Favorite cake:	Ice Cream
Favorite candy:	smarties
Favorite cartoon character:	Sponge Bob
Favorite church song:	Let Your Light Shine
Favorite college football team:	Buckeyes
Favorite color:	purple
Favorite drink:	Sprite
Favorite extra curricular activity:	Math puzzles
Favorite food:	pepperoni pizza
Favorite friend at church:	Breanna
Favorite friend at school:	Samantha
Favorite fruit:	mandarin oranges
Favorite game:	Super Paper Mario
Favorite ice cream:	Mint Chocolate Chip
Favorite large animal:	elephant
Favorite movie:	To Save a Life
Favorite number:	13
Favorite place you would like to go:	the beach
Favorite restaurant:	Marcella's
Favorite sibling:	Zac (and then all the others!)
Favorite small animal:	cat
Favorite sport:	soccer
Favorite subject in school:	Math
Favorite summer activity:	sleepovers
Favorite teacher:	Mrs. Lopez
Favorite vacation spot:	Florida
Favorite vegetable:	carrots with ranch dip
Favorite video game:	pokemon
Favorite winter activity:	snowball fights
What you would like to be when you grow up:	vet, journalist, icecream test-taster

Soccer with Ethan

2011-10-19T15:05:00.000-04:00

YAY! I love being invited to watch my kids play sports or do anything extra-curricular! I had the privilege of watching Ethan play his last soccer game! He did a great job! Here are a few pics of the night!

It was a bit chilly!

Ethan & PS before the game!

GO, Ethan!

Ethan's coach giving them their last "after-game" chat!

Fun at the Zoo

2011-10-14T15:24:00.000-04:00

So I got to go to the Columbus Zoo today with one of my little guys, Aaron, and his Mom, Charlene! We had a great time even though it was a little "blustery"! By the time we left, the sun had come out! Thanks, Aaron, for asking me to go with you to the zoo! :) I had a wonderful time!
Love you -- PStaci

Here are a few pics from our morning!

PS, Aaron, & Mommy (Charlene)

Aaron going down the slide near the Polar Bears!

Another cute shot of Aaron (wishing he had my camera!)

Aaron & PS

One of the baby monkey's with its Mom.

Aaron would look over at me and just reach for my hand to hold different times as we were walking. How cute is that!

Lunch with Joshua

2011-10-13T14:10:00.000-04:00

PS & Josh at his school

I had the privilege of bringing lunch to Josh today! I got to meet some of his friends and his teacher, too. We had a great lunch together! I even got to see his sister after we finished lunch. I learned a lot about Josh ... read it below!

Josh, you are a great friend to so many! I'm so glad I got to see you at school today! You are a very special young man and God has big things in store for you!

Love, PStaci

Favorite cake:	cheesecake
Favorite car:	flying car
Favorite church song:	On the March
Favorite college football team:	OSU
Favorite color:	green
Favorite cookie:	M&M
Favorite dessert:	cheesecake
Favorite food:	Kiwi
Favorite friend at church:	Jessica
Favorite friend at school:	Alex
Favorite fruit:	Kiwi
Favorite game:	MindCraft
Favorite ice cream:	cotton candy
Favorite large animal:	dog
Favorite movie:	To Save A Life
Favorite number:	9
Favorite outside game:	Tire wars
Favorite place he would like to go:	Mars
Favorite sibling:	all
Favorite small animal:	chameleon
Favorite sport:	basketball
Favorite subject in school:	Math/Science
Favorite summer activity:	computer
Favorite teacher:	Ms. Cook
Favorite vegetable:	potato
Favorite video game:	Super Mario Brothers Wii
Favorite winter activity:	snowball fights
What you would like to be when you grow up:	engineer or inventor

Lunch with Nicholas

2011-10-06T18:16:00.000-04:00

So, today, I had the privilege of bringing lunch to Nicholas at his school! He wanted Subway -- one of my favorites -- and he got a Turkey, olive and mayo, with BBQ chips and a coke. We chatted about a bunch of stuff and I learned a lot of things about Nicholas ... read on:
Favorite color: green
Favorite book: Three Good Deeds
Favorite movie: Milo and Otis
Favorite TV show: Sponge Bob
Favorite game: Bananagrams (love that game, too)
Favorite outside game: Freeze Tag
Favorite sport: soccer
Favorite subject: Reading
Favorite candy: Reece's Pieces
Favorite food: Salisbury Steak with mashed potatoes
Favorite store: Target
Favorite ice cream: coffee
Favorite winter activity: snowball fights
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite Bible story: Jonah and Joseph
Favorite church song: Shout Your Fame
Favorite cookie: peanut butter
Favorite extra curricular activity: Boy/Cub Scouts
Best friend at church: Bryce and Richard
Best friend at school: Trevor
Favorite dessert: banana bread
Favorite cake: ice cream cake
Favorite vacation spot: Michigan, Bahamas, Washington DC
Favorite donut place: Donut King
Favorite place he would like to go: Canada
Favorite baseball team: Columbus Clippers
Favorite college football team: Michigan State Spartans
Favorite hockey team: Columbus Blue Jackets and the Redwings
Favorite video game: Call of Duty Black Ops
Favorite sister: Katarina! (When I asked this question, he said, "I only have one -- and she's my favorite!" -- how cute!)
What Nicholas would like to be when he grows up: Professional wrestler -- Terminator, actor, soccer player

I got to meet his teacher and his Math teacher. They both spoke very highly of Nicky -- and what a very special young man he is. I was so pleased to hear that, and know it to be very true, as well! God has big things in store for Nicholas!
Thanks for having lunch with me!
Love you!
PStaci

Parenting Tip: Building a "Tape"

2011-10-06T16:12:00.001-04:00

Many times we, as parents, don't see the results of our discipline as fast as we'd like. The process is slow, at best, and change seems to be taking a long time. In those situations we need to focus on building a tape in our child's heart.

Think about some of the things your parents said over and over again that continue to play in your mind. "Turn off the lights before you leave the room." "Eat your vegetables." "Be nice to your sister," "Say excuse me." Did you heed their instructions then? Maybe not, but the tape still plays in your head.

It may not appear that your children are listening but loving and consistent reminders have a long-term effect. It's important what you say and how you say it, though, because children will remember. If your words have a pattern of being harsh and critical, that tape also will continue to play later on.

Simple observations repeated over and over can go a long way. If you have one son who is continually picking on another, he may have a character weakness in the area of kindness. Make statements and observations that add to the tape. "Johnny, you need to be kind." "Johnny, it looks like you're being selfish and not thinking of Billy's feelings." "Johnny, was that the loving thing to do?" "Johnny, let's not be hurtful."

As we repeat instructions and make observations, we're impacting the hearts and minds of our children, whether we see the results in their behavior or not. Change takes time. It's important to pray that God will use our words to make lasting changes in our kids. We may not actually see the results as fast as we would like, but we are building a tape that will last a long time. Take a moment and think about the tape you're creating in your child's heart. Is it the one you want remembered?

Consider what you'd like your child to say to himself or herself and begin to repeat those words throughout the day. In doing so you'll be creating a heart script to help your child mature.

This tip comes from the book, Home Improvement, by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

What are some constructive things you repeat to your child throughout the day?

Parenting Tip: A Peacemaker or a Troublemaker?

2011-09-17T12:46:00.000-04:00

A good way to help children overcome the problem of anger is to teach them how to be peacemakers instead of troublemakers. Anyone can get angry and most people do. Few are mature enough to be peacemakers.

Being a peacemaker helps to break down anger in one's self and in others. Peacemakers seek to bring people together in agreement and look for solutions where everyone wins. They think of the needs of others and try to make everyone feel good. A peacemaker honors others and promotes harmony, bringing joy into the family.

So, how can you help children become peacemakers? Here are a few practical ideas. Target your parenting so that children can learn to be peacemakers. Teach children to:

Look for things in common, not differences.

Try to agree, not disagree.

Work toward common solutions where everyone wins, not where one person wins and others lose.

Use love as a motivation, not anger or meanness.

Work to give your angry child a vision for being a peacemaker. It will open up new ways of thinking about offenses and provide opportunities to deal with anger in others as well. That's why Jesus said, "Blessed (or happy) are the peacemakers," Matthew 5:9.

Anger is one of the roadblocks to sibling harmony. Being a peacemaker is a demonstration of honor. To learn more about how honor can teach kids to get along, consider the book, Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes In You and Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Post taken from http://biblicalparenting.org/.

September (late) & October (early) Parent Link

2011-09-16T15:57:00.000-04:00

Well, the September Parent Link is here -- better late than NEVER, huh?! ;)

Here is the October one as well!

Enjoy! :)

Please let me know if I forgot a birthday or special date that you don't see on the calendars on page 4.

Thanks!

Parenting Tip: It's Hard to Raise a Leader

2011-09-13T09:56:00.000-04:00

Some children are born leaders. They want to control their parents, their siblings, their friends, and even people they don’t know. They have their own agenda and want everyone else to know what it is and how to fit into it. Leaders can be a real blessing in life but they sure are hard to raise.

One of the greatest gifts you can give to your budding leader is the ability to follow. To follow means listening to the needs and desires of others, submitting to someone else's agenda, and learning how to work cooperatively on a team. All good leaders need to know how and when to follow.

Although you will nurture the leadership gifts your child possesses, it's also your job to teach him or her how to work with others. The weaknesses of young leaders are demonstrated in negative ways like arguing, badgering, and being demanding or angry. Don't just brush off these weaknesses as inevitable. Take time to correct, but do it in a way that appreciates the child’s gifts. "Karen, I can tell you're going to be a leader someday, but remember that good leaders need to think about the needs of others." Or, "Jim, I like the way you take initiative with your brother. Remember, though, that a good leader is also a good listener."

As you guide the development of your young leader you’ll not only make family life easier now, but also you’ll be equipping him for the future. Your hard work will be worth it in the end.

What are some ways you've been able to direct a budding leader? Click here to tell us about it.

This parenting tip comes from the book Home Improvement, The Parenting Book You Can Read to Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Texting Lingo Every Parent Needs to Know

2011-09-13T09:30:00.000-04:00

Here is a very good article on texting. If your child has a cell phone and is texting, you might want to read this. Tolerance for texting varies, but almost no parent would knowingly permit their child to text crude, lewd or obscene messages.

But what if the messages were coded? Click here if you'd like a "text dictionary".

Light the Night Donations

2011-09-07T17:03:00.000-04:00

Fall is just around the corner and so is "Light the Night" which will be held on Monday, October 31. But we need your help! Donations of full-sized candy bars (no king-sized please) and individual hot chocolate packets are needed to hand out to children. We also need volunteers to help stuff the "treat" bags and volunteers who live in the Upper Arlington area who are willing to hand out the prepared "treats" to children in their neighborhoods. All donations should be dropped off in the bins which are located in the church lobby by Sunday, October 23. Thank you in advance for your help!

Please comment on this post if you are in the 43220/43221 zip code and you would be willing to be a "host home" for the treat bags.

Thanks so much!

CapCity Kidz Back to School/Bring a Friend Movie Night is ...

2011-08-24T18:11:00.000-04:00

... this coming Friday night! It is for kids in the PreK - K class and also for 1st-6th graders. We'll be watching ?? I have a few choices the kids will be able to choose from. (ie: Charlotte's Web, An Extremely GOofy Movie, 102 Dalmations, Vintage Mickey, Cheaper by the Dozen --original, The Best of the Cosby Show, America's Funniest Home Videos -- best of kids and animals, McGee & Me, Skeeter and the Mystery of the Lost Mosquito Treasure)

If you need a permission slip, please go here and fill out the form. The form comes directly to my inbox.

August: The Parent Link

2011-08-11T23:03:00.000-04:00

Click here for the August Parent Link newsletter and calendar with August events. If you have any questions, please feel free to email/text/call me!

Thanks, PStaci

Lunch with Jayden

2011-08-11T21:47:00.000-04:00

In July, I had the privilege of taking Jayden to lunch the week of Vacation Bible School! It was a busy week, but my lunch with Jayden was a very welcome break from VBS stuff! He wanted to go to Five Guys, so that's where we went!

Before he bit in!

Jayden eating the bacon cheeseburger with just HOT SAUCE!!!

All finished!

Here are a few things I learned about Jayden!

Favorite color: blue

Favorite food: nachos and cheese

Favorite sport: hockey

Favorite drink: Sprite

Favorite candy bar: Hershey's Cookies 'n Cream

Favorite candy: Peppermint Patty

Favorite dessert: brownie

Favorite ice cream: lime sherbet

Favorite class: history/literature

Favorite book: Box Car Children

Favorite card game: Uno

Favorite board game: Monopoly

Favorite video game: Sega Genesis, racing game

Favorite restaurant: Five Guys

Favorite roller coaster: Diamond Back, Kings Island

Favorite movie: Air Bud

Favorite TV: Cyber Chase

Favorite summer activity: swimming

Favorite winter activity: hockey

Favorite Bible story: Esther

Favorite song: Toby Mac, "Hold On"

Favorite kids song: "On the March"

Favorite afternoon activity: cardboard cutting

What do you want to be when you grow up?

1. F1 Racer

2. Hockey Player

3. FBI agent

Jayden, I loved hanging out with you and having lunch together! You're a very young gentleman and I'm proud of who you are!

Love you!

Pastor Staci

Lunch with Liliana

2011-08-11T21:29:00.000-04:00

So, I've got a little bit of catching up to do! The summer has flown by and I've have a few lunches to post!

I had lunch with Liliana back on June 30th! We had a great time -- she chose Donatos to eat, so we had pizza, delicious pizza! :)

Here are a few things I learned about Lili during our lunch!

Favorite color: turquoise
Favorite food: enchiladas
Favorite drink: pink lemonade
Favorite candy: chocolate
Favorite candy bar: snickers
Favorite dessert: brownies
Favorite ice cream: kiwi sherbet
Favorite class in school: Math
Favorite book: Twilight series
Favorite game: tag
Favorite board game: Candy Land
Favorite restaurant: Olive Garden
Favorite place: Magic Mountain
Favorite roller coaster: Fairly Odd Parents
Favorite movie: Rio
Favorite TV show: Victoria's
Favorite summer activity: swimming
Favorite word: why
Favorite Bible story: Joseph's Life
Favorite song: Taylor Swift, "Mean"
Favorite church song: Take It All
Favorite small animal: Pomeranian
Favorite large animal: elephant
What do you want to be when you grow up? vet

Liliana, I had such a great time with you! Always know just how special you are to me and to Jesus! So proud of the young lady you are!

Love you!
Pastor Staci

Listen Slowly

2011-07-31T22:21:00.000-04:00

“Teach them to your children.” Dt 4:9 NKJV

Being a parent is: (1) A privilege. So you must convince your children that they’re more important to you than a succesful career or acquiring material things. Never miss a chance to tell them you love them. Be there! (2) A responsibility. God doesn’t hold the government or the school system responsible for your children, He holds you responsible! “Do not forget the things your eyes have seen…Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” (3) A limited opportunity. If you neglect them long enough, your children will conclude they’re not as important to you as the things you keep sacrificing them for. When that happens you’ve effectively lost them. Is that a price you’re prepared to pay? If not, rearrange your priorities. In his book Stress Fractures, Charles Swindoll writes: “I vividly remember some time back being caught in the undertow of too many commitments and too few days. It wasn’t long before I was snapping at my wife and our children, choking down my food at mealtimes, and feeling irritated at those unexpected interruptions through the day. Before long, things around our house started reflecting the pattern of my hurry-up style. It was becoming unbearable. I distinctly recall after supper one evening the words of our younger daughter, Colleen. She wanted to tell me about something important that had happened to her at school that day. She hurriedly began, ‘Daddy-I-want-to-tell-you-something-and-I’ll-tell-you-really-fast.’ Suddenly, realizing her frustration, I answered, ‘Honey, you can tell me…and you don’t have to tell me really fast. Say it slowly.’ I’ll never forget her answer: ‘Then listen slowly.’”

**Although I'm not a parent yet, this is a great reminder for me to slow down and listen to others -- not only children, but everyone who comes in my path.

June Parent Link -- for ALL parents!

2011-05-27T17:12:00.000-04:00

Click here if you'd like to download June's Parent Link. This is a great monthly read for ALL parents. The 4th page has the calendar of events and birthdays. If for some reason, I do not have your child's birthday and it's this particular month, please let me know.

Thanks!!
PStaci

Lunch with Taylor

2011-05-26T14:39:00.000-04:00

Taylor & PStaci

I had such a fun time at lunch today with Taylor! She chose Subway for her lunch -- one of my favorite places to eat! We sat with some of her friends, too -- plus, I got to see some of the other CapCity Kidz who attend that school.

Here are some fun facts I learned about Taylor:

Favorite color: turquoise

Favorite food: sub sandwiches

Favorite drink: lemonade

Favorite candy: Reeces Peanut Butter Cups

Favorite movie: The Suite Life on Deck (the movie)

Favorite book: The Bible :)

Favorite ice cream: cotton candy

Favorite cartoon character: Phineas & Ferb

Favorite recess game: Four Square

Favorite class at school: Writing

Favorite Bible story: all

Favorite TV show: Phineas & Ferb

Favorite number: 20

Favorite board game: Sorry

What do you want to be when you grow up? a gymnastics teacher and an artist

Taylor, I had such a great time eating lunch with you today! Thanks for praying for our meal and time together! So proud of you and your love for Jesus!

Love you!

PStaci

Water Baptism: May 15, 2011

2011-05-19T21:51:00.000-04:00

5 of my students were baptized on Sunday, May 15th. CapCity Kidz came downstairs to cheer them on in their next step as they follow Jesus. I think it's important that those who get baptized know we love and support them in their decision. So very proud of these 5! Here are a few pics of before and after baptism.

Taylor

Bryce

Eli

Joshua

Danny

Baby Dedications (May 8, 2011)

2011-05-19T21:45:00.000-04:00

Our team had the privilege of dedicating 4 babies on Mother's Day this year. This day is one of my favorites -- a day when we get to partner with parents as they raise their children in the ways of God. Here are a few pictures of the sweet, little ones who were dedicated.

Chace

Brody

Elliana

Parker

Parents, thank you so much for the opportunity to dedicate your sweet children. I am looking forward to the privilege of serving with you as we lead them to love Jesus with all their hearts.

Love, Pastor Staci

CapCity Kidz Movie Night: Tangled

2011-05-19T17:27:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow night, Friday, May 20, is CapCity Kidz Movie Night from 6:00-9:00 pm. We are opening it up for Preschoolers-5th grades. So if you have a child/children that age and are able to come, please let me know who will be coming! I'm really looking forward to having the preschoolers be a part of this fun evening! Special thanks to Mrs. Jen, Miss Kiersten and Miss Rachel for helping out with the PreK class kids and Miss Melody for helping me with the elementary aged kids!

We'll be watching the movie "Tangled". Click here for the movie review from Plugged In Online.

Please bring this permission slip, $3, your friends and a snack to share, if you'd like. I'll provide the popcorn and drinks (water, sprite, cream soda).

Email me and let me know who will be coming or sign up on the Facebook event page.

Hope to see you there!

PStaci :)

Parenting Tip: Some Tips for Helping Kids Deal with Anger

2011-05-19T17:03:00.000-04:00

Anger damages relationships. We help parents every week in our office deal with anger in their families. Here are several guidelines we've found helpful for anger management in a home. When parents and kids work on these things, anger episodes are reduced. Make these a regular part of your routine and you'll see tremendous progress.

1. Never argue with children who are angry. Have them take a break and continue the conversation later.

2. Identify the anger cues that reveal your child is about to lose control. Point them out early and stop the interaction. Don’t wait for explosions before you intervene.

3. Help children recognize anger in its various disguises like a bad attitude, grumbling, glaring, or a harsh tone of voice.

4. Debrief after the child has settled down. Talk about how to handle the situation differently next time.

5. Teach children constructive responses. They could get help, talk about it, or walk away. These kinds of suggestions help children to have a plan for what they should do, not just what they shouldn't do.

6. When angry words or actions hurt others, individuals should apologize and seek forgiveness.

By doing these things you will teach your children to do what James 1:19 says, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Are there some ways you've seen these or similar tips help in your family?

This tip comes from the chapter on sibling conflict in the book, Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes, In You and Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Lunch with Savannah & Luke

2011-05-13T13:03:00.001-04:00

I had the privilege of bringing lunch to Savannah and Luke today at their home. I had a great time eating with them and getting to know them better. Here are a few pics and things I learned from each of them:

Savannah & PS

Favorite color: pink
Favorite food: spaghetti
Favorite drink: Dr. Pepper (me, too!)
Favorite candy: 3 Musketeers
Favorite movie: Tangled
Favorite book: Barbie and the 3 Musketeers
Favorite ice cream: chocolate
Favorite cartoon character: Babs, the Bunny (from Bugs Bunny)
Favorite game: Skip-bo
Favorite Bible story: The Easter Story
Favorite school subject: Math
Favorite TV show: iCarly
Favorite summer activity: swimming in the pool
Favorite song: This is the Stuff by Francesca Battistelli
Favorite animal: zebra
Favorite car: black mini-van
Favorite flower: red rose
Favorite vacation: Disney
Favorite fast food: Wendy's
Favorite teacher: Mom
Favorite activity: taking Tap, Ballet and Jazz classes
What do you want to be when you grow up? pastor

Luke & PS

Favorite color: blue
Favorite food: salad
Favorite drink: cherry coke
Favorite candy: Laffy Taffy
Favorite movie: NinjaGo Lego Movie
Favorite book: Bear Wants More
Favorite ice cream: cookies and cream
Favorite cartoon character: Wally and Eve
Favorite game: GoGo Crazy Bones
Favorite Bible story: The Easter Story
Favorite school subject: Reading
Favorite TV show: NinjaGo
Favorite summer activity: dodgeball
Favorite song: Devil Go On by Toby Mac
Favorite animal: penguin
Favorite car: silver jeep
Favorite flower: "blooded" heart (bleeding heart)
Favorite vacation: Disney
Favorite fast food: Taco Bell
Favorite teacher: Mom
Favorite activity: taking swim lessons
What do you want to be when you grow up? Ninja

Savannah and Luke, I had a great time learning more about you and getting to hang out with you today! You guys are great and I'm so glad I'm your Kids Pastor!

Love you!

PStaci

Parenting Tip: Encouraging Moments

2011-05-12T15:57:00.000-04:00

Encouraging Moments

Kids have a way of speaking words of encouragement that create heart moments in a parent that are more significant than those children ever imagined. And God knows that we need that kind of support. Parenting is hard work, and hope is a cherished commodity that keeps parents moving forward when they feel like things are falling apart either in themselves or in their kids.

Children also have the ability to turn the things parents teach them into lessons for others, including you. On the one hand, it’s quite encouraging to see that your child is getting it, but on the other hand, it can be difficult to receive a rebuke from your child. Children have an uncanny way of sensing truth and proclaiming it. Maybe that's why God likens our own spiritual growth to be like a child growing up.

Even though parents are always learning and growing, understanding God's grace in its various forms is a challenge for even the most mature person. God uses hardship and trials to develop the character in a person's life. Romans 5:3-4 says, "Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." The struggles parents face within themselves and with their children are part of God's refining process.

God has many ways of sending parents messages of hope. They sometimes come through a scripture passage or a pastor's message. A husband or wife can be a great source of encouragement in family life, but there's something about God's use of a child that has the ability to go straight to your heart. It's those moments that parents can look back on and cherish during the difficult times.

How has God used your child to bring encouragement into your life?

This parenting tip comes from the book Family Heart Moments, True and Inspiring Stories by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Lunch with Aaron

2011-05-08T20:37:00.000-04:00

Aaron & PS

On Thursday, I had lunch with Aaron. We had a great time! His Mom brought us lunch! It was delicious -- she even made me a blueberry muffin, a WARM blueberry muffin, right out of the oven! YUMMY! Thank you!!!

Here's a few things I learned about Aaron while we ate together:

Favorite color: aquamarine

Favorite food: chips

Favorite movie: Despicable Me

Favorite animal: all

Favorite drink: pop

Favorite game: tag

Favorite TV Show: Penguins of Madagascar

Favorite car: Mercedes Benz

Favorite veggie: carrots

Favorite fruit: banana

Favorite school subject: Science

Favorite candy: chocolate bar from Meijer

Favorite Bible story: David -- all of the stories about David's life

Favorite song: Jesus Loves Me

What do you want to be when you grow up? an inventor

Here are the flowers Aaron and Ethan brought me -- how very thoughtful of them!

Aaron, I had a great time getting to know you better and I'm so glad I'm your kids pastor! God has great things in store for you and I'm excited to see Him work in your life!

Love you!
PStaci

10 Ways to Bond with Preschoolers by Wayne Stocks

2011-05-01T23:18:00.000-04:00

This is an amazing post by my friend, Wayne Stocks! If you'd like to read it, click here. He is posting on the website "Ministry-to-Children.com". If you'd like to download the pdf version of this post, click here.

Enjoy!! PStaci

God to the Rescue!

2011-04-24T23:05:00.000-04:00

So, we finished up our series on "God to the Rescue" today during CapCity Kidz! We read the entire account of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus from John 19-20. The kids were riveted by the story they heard from God's word.

We have had a blast following Rescue Rangers Reggie, Roger and Rachel over the past several weeks. They have taught us so much -- and our key verse that we'll continue to memorize next week is taken from Acts 4:12 NIV.

One of my students went home today after the service and made a LEGO creation -- a cross with Jesus on it. He gets it ... and I'm so thankful! We had a great day today celebrating that God sent Jesus to our rescue!

Thank you for sharing, Joshua!

CapCity Kidz, love you so much!

PStaci

Lunch with Maggie

2011-04-19T13:41:00.000-04:00

Maggie & PS

Today, I had the privilege to eat lunch with Maggie! She chose Subway and I absolutely LOVE to get food from there! She loves ham and cheese with Doritos and Sprite! YUMMY! We sat across from her friends, so it was great to see them again!

Here are a few things I learned about Maggie today:

Favorite color: blue

Favorite food: Subway ham and cheese

Favorite drink: Sprite

Favorite candy: Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

Favorite movie: Ramona & Beezus

Favorite book: Junie B. Jones series

Favorite ice cream: chocolate

Favorite TV Show: Big Time Rush

Favorite recess game: Tag

Favorite Class at school: Reading

Favorite Bible Story: the birth of Jesus

What do you want to be when you grow up? soccer player, dentist, or doctor

Maggie, you are such a sweet young lady full of so much potential and I'm so glad I am your Kids Pastor! God has big plans in store for you!

Love you,

PStaci

Parenting Tip: Recognizing Foolishness

2011-04-19T13:31:00.000-04:00

One of the greatest sources of sibling conflict is foolishness. Children often don't recognize the future consequences of their present actions. Billy trips his younger sister. Karen teases her brother until he cries. These are examples of children not anticipating the consequences of their actions.

Foolishness is one of the three roadblocks to sibling harmony. Honor offers the solution. Honor teaches wisdom in relationships

One of the ways that you can recognize foolishness is to listen for the flags. Excuses like, "I was just kidding" or "I didn't mean it" or "I was just playing around" or "I didn't do anything wrong" are all cues that a child is not taking responsibility for foolish behavior. Children often evaluate life in terms of black and white and when they do something foolish the behavior may not have been wrong. These children don't recognize that a good behavior can sometimes be wrong because it leads to something bad.

The first solution is to help children learn to take responsibility for their part of the problem. This is hard for many children who view mistakes as a sign of weakness. Help children take responsibility for foolishness and you will go a long way to teach them about wisdom.

You might ask, "What could you have done differently to avoid this problem?" This question helps children look at an offense a little differently. Instead of evaluating it based on right or wrong, now the behavior is judged based on its foresight and wisdom.

Of course the solution for foolishness is to help children learn wisdom. You want to help them anticipate the consequences of their actions. Tell stories of people who didn't see what was coming. And of course pray with your children because God says in James 1:5, "If you lack wisdom, ask God."

What are some ways you've been able to teach honor to siblings? Click here to tell us about it.

This tip comes from the book Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes in You and Your Kids, by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Taken from http://www.biblicalparenting.info/

Parenting Tip: Some Helpful Working Definitions

2011-04-19T13:28:00.000-04:00

We want to be practical with children. That means that we give specific instructions about what we want them to do, not just what they shouldn't do. One way to be practical as we help children develop character is to use working definitions. We use these a lot in our counseling to help children understand life more. Here are some examples, but you can be creative and think of many more.

Obedience is doing what someone says, right away, without being reminded.

Honor is treating people as special, doing more than what's expected, and having a good attitude.

Perseverance is hanging in there even after you feel like quitting.

Attentiveness is showing people you love them by looking at them when they say their words.

Patience is waiting with a happy heart.

Self-discipline is putting off present rewards for future benefits.

Gratefulness is being thankful for the things I have instead of grumbling about the things I don't have.

You don't have to use them all. Just choose the one that your child needs right now and teach how to put that character quality into practice. Put them up around the house. This is a very positive way to give kids a vision for what you want.

Do you have a practical definition you use with your child to help build character? Click here to tell us about it.

This tip comes from the book, Home Improvement, The Parenting Book You Can Read to Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Taken from http://www.biblicalparenting.info/

Lunch with Joshua

2011-04-15T14:15:00.000-04:00

Today I had the privilege of having lunch with Joshua! He wanted a Wendy's Kids Meal with nuggets, fries, and lemonade -- oh, yeah, and ketchup! We had a great time together! Some of his friends were eating around us, too!

Here are some things I learned about Joshua today:
Favorite color: blue
Favorite food: watermelon
Favorite drink: rootbeer float
Favorite sweet: vanilla wafers
Favorite movie: Despicable Me
Favorite book: The Crayon Box That Talked
Favorite ice cream: Chocolate Madness
Favorite cartoon character: Johnny Test
Favorite recess game: Despicable Me Tag (hmmm, never heard of that one!)
Favorite Bible story: Joshua and the battle of Jericho
Favorite class at school: Writing
Favorite church song: I'll Give It All To You
What do you want to be when you grow up? He said, "I'm still working on that one!" (awesome!) But then I asked if he could think about maybe the top 3 things. Diver, pet sitter & teacher were the three he said!

Joshua, I had a wonderful time with you at lunch and getting to learn more about you! You are an amazing boy and I'm so glad I'm your Kids Pastor!

Love you,
Pastor Staci

Tutoring Boys

2011-04-15T14:00:00.000-04:00

Here are the 3 boys I tutored on Fridays since September. They will be taking their tests after they back from Spring break, so I had to stop tutoring 2 weeks before that time. Today is a weird day because it's the first day that I'm not tutoring them. Do GREAT on your test, guys! I'm praying for you!

April & May 2011, Parent Link

2011-04-12T18:07:00.000-04:00

April 2011 Parent Link

May 2011 Parent Link

JBQ State Meet

2011-04-03T22:45:00.000-04:00

JBQ State Team, 1st place in the Achiever 2 Division

Quizzing

Aaron received the 1st place award in his division!

Way to go, CapCity Kidz JBQ Team -- and to the coaches and parents, thank you ALL so much for a great season! Looking forward to all that God has in store for us as we continue to hide God's word in our hearts!

~PStaci

Extreme Veggies 2011

2011-04-03T22:29:00.000-04:00

Once again, we had a great time at Extreme Veggies this year! We had oh, so much pizza, veggies, snacks and yummy goodies! We played some games -- the Larry Roll (relay race where kids rolled a cucumber on the floor with their nose/head) and the Bob Hop (relay race where kids put a red balloon between their knees and hop down and back). We also watched Veggie Tales the entire time! Most of all, the kids brought their friends to this event! So proud of them! Enjoy the slide show!
~PStaci

Top Ten Parenting Resources

2011-04-03T19:44:00.000-04:00

Dear Parents,

Click on this link to go to the blog post. The post "Ten Parenting Resources" was written by Keith Tusing and is hosted on www.cmbuzz.com.

Enjoy!

~Pastor Staci

Baptisms: March 6, 2011

2011-04-01T09:56:00.000-04:00

Once again, I had the privilege of baptizing 2 of my kids: Faith and Trinity! I'm so proud of them both for the stand they took for Jesus -- to live the rest of their lives for Him! Here are a few shots of that special day!

Love you girls! Thanks for loving Jesus!

~PStaci

Parenting Tip: The Most Common Parenting Question of All

2011-03-14T22:11:00.001-04:00

The question we're probably asked the most often in our parenting seminars and radio interviews is, "What do I do when my kids act out in the grocery store?" We all have stories from our own families and we've observed other children throw tantrums, run away, whine, complain, or disobey in the store. We may write a booklet someday called, "How to Parent in Public." Then we could all carry around these booklets and hand them out to frustrated parents in public places.

At least part of the answer is that you don't practice your discipline strategies in the grocery store. That's the final exam! You practice in the kitchen, bedroom, laundry room, and backyard. Children need to learn how to handle disappointment at home so they can accept a no answer in the check out line. Our kids need to learn to come when they're called so that they'll respond in public. Children who haven't learned how to accept correction at home without a bad attitude will miserably fail the test when they have an audience.

Look for ways to reproduce the grocery store situations at home, at the park, and in other places so that children can learn positive routines to use in public. Talk about how to act at the bank, the library, and the store. Teach your children the "No Touch Rule" and the "Don't be Wild Rule" and practice them often.

It won't be long before you'll be able to take your young children into the Hallmark store with all those dangerously beautiful things waiting to be broken. If you've practiced then your kids will do fine and people will say, "Oh what nicely behaved children you have." Of course those people don't realize how much work you've done to help your children develop the character to handle these temptations.

Then the grocery store will be easier. That doesn't mean you won't ever have a problem. In those times you have to do as best as you can, get what you need and get out of there, but the difficult times will be far fewer than the successful ones when you take time to practice at home.

What are some ways you've been able to teach your children self discipline at home?

Taken from Biblical Parenting.

Parenting Tip: Immediate Affirmation Produces Results

2011-03-11T13:59:00.001-05:00

Immediate praise for work well done is very motivating. It's important to catch your children doing something right. Not only do you want to affirm behavior but also you want to encourage the character development that you see growing. Use words like, "You're becoming very cooperative." Or, "I like the way you are learning to be kind." Praise goes a long way to build good habits.

When my (Joanne) son Timothy was four years old, we had a problem with him complaining at mealtimes. No matter what I served, he moaned. So I created a "Good Attitude at Mealtime" chart. It wasn't fancy or elaborate, just a piece of construction paper. I told him that when he saw what was for the meal, he could either say something positive or say nothing at all. If he did this then he'd get a star on his chart. If he complained, no star that meal. I drew cute little stars with different colors. I put faces on them and hats. Timmy loved it. He had so much fun with his chart that he would eagerly ask what was for each meal, just so he could respond rightly and get a new and different star. I told him that if he got 12 stars, I would give him a treat. The star chart helped us break the bad habit of complaining.

Look for ways to praise your children whenever possible. Don't just focus on a child's weaknesses. Praise goes a long way to develop a positive attitude in our kids about the changes they need to make. Remember to not just focus on behavior though. Tell kids what you like about the character they're demonstrating through those positive behaviors.

This idea is not just for young children who seem to eat up our praise. Teens need praise too. Often the faults of older children are glaringly obvious and quite scary for us as parents, but determine to catch your teens or young adults doing something right and praise their character and maturity. You'll be surprised at the results.

Are there some ways you've been able to affirm the character developing in your child?

This tip comes from the book, Home Improvement, The Parenting Book You Can Read to Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Post taken from www.biblicalparenting.org.

Kids Answers -- a great website

2011-03-09T14:37:00.003-05:00

Parents,

Answers in Genesis (http://www.answersingenesis.org/kids) is an apologetics (i.e., Christianity-defending) ministry, dedicated to enabling Christians to defend their faith and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ effectively. They focus particularly on providing answers to questions surrounding the book of Genesis, as it is the most-attacked book of the Bible. They also desire to train others to develop a biblical worldview, and seek to expose the bankruptcy of evolutionary ideas, and its bedfellow, a “millions of years old” earth (and even older universe). Learn it here so you can teach and equip your kids to know truth!

~PStaci

Parenting Tip: Teaching Character to Three-Year-Olds

2011-03-07T13:02:00.000-05:00

Different character qualities can be emphasized at different developmental stages. A newborn, for example, learns about love, trust, and a positive view of the world because of the loving care given by parents. As children grow and develop, new character qualities are added to the picture.

Preschoolers are at a strategic age to learn so much about life. Creativity, compassion, patience, confidence, and cooperation are just a few of the many new qualities that begin to develop during these years.

Two character qualities, in particular, become a focus in the parent/child relationship: Self-discipline and responsiveness to authority. But please don't think that teaching these qualities requires harshness, demandingness, or an authoritarian approach. Rather, these qualities can be taught with a loving firmness that prepares children for greater success in life.

Preschoolers learn self-discipline skills by coming when called instead of running away. These children also learn about a bedtime and how to hold a parent's hand in a store or out in public. Children resist these attempts to help them learn to give up their agenda, but that's what self-discipline is all about. Even adults resist a diet, staying on a budget, or an exercise program. If we can teach children self-discipline when they're preschoolers, they'll begin to develop significant tools for when they get older.

Talk about self-discipline with preschoolers. They may not understand the term yet, but they'll grow into it. We can teach self-discipline through a number of family rules. When we go into a store, we have the "No Touch Rule." When in a library or bank, we may use the "Don't be Wild Rule." When you first teach rules like these, start by making them fun. Teach the rules like a game, then put them into practice in life and enforce the new rules with repetition and practice.

"But my kids won't do these things," you may say. And maybe they won't unless you practice. But the preschool years are an excellent time to build some character qualities that will last a long time in a child's life.

What are some ways you've been able to teach character to your preschooler?

This tip comes from the CD Series, Parenting Toddlers, Developing Healthy Patterns from the Start by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Post taken from www.biblicalparenting.org.

Parenting Tip: Stop the Intensity in Conflict

2011-03-02T16:12:00.006-05:00

Sometimes a child's stubbornness or defiance is obvious. In those moments, stop dealing with the issue at hand and talk about the process of how you're relating. "I can tell you're upset and it's not good for us to continue until you settle down. You need to take a break and come back when you're ready to continue talking about this." Have the child sit in the hall or on the top step or some other boring place. After the child has settled down, then he or she needs to come back to you and talk about the problem.

If your child comes back without having a heart change, then send the child back again. One dad told the story of seven-year-old Sarah who was yelling at her brother. "I called her upstairs to talk to me about it and she began yelling at me. I told her that was inappropriate and to take a break for a bit and settle down.

About a minute later she came back but was obviously not changed. Her head was tilted down, her posture was slumping and her bottom lip was sticking out. I didn't even have to talk with her. I just told her what I saw, "Sarah, I can tell you're not ready yet. The way you're standing and the expression on your face all tell me that you still have a problem in your heart. I want you to go back until you're ready to come out with a changed heart.

"This time she stayed away for about 20 minutes and when she returned she was obviously different. In fact, I took her head in my hands and looked deep into her eyes and said, 'I can see your heart in there. It looks pretty nice right now. It looks like you're ready to talk about this.' Sarah giggled and then we continued to talk about the problem. I explained to her that she could not yell at her dad. That is disrespectful even if she is angry. We also talked about the right responses she could have if she was angry with her brother."

By enforcing a break, this dad helped Sarah change her heart. Don't allow conflict to escalate into a battle. Stop the intensity with a break. It will not only help you stay calm but it will help your children develop some maturity about dealing with conflict.

What are some ways you've seen the Break work in your family?

This tip comes from the book, Home Improvement, The Parenting Book You Can Read to Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Post taken from: www.biblicalparenting.org.

www.capcitykidz.org --> www.capcitykids.com

2011-03-02T14:22:00.001-05:00

To Whom It May Concern:

Please take note: www.capcitykidz.org is changing to www.capcitykids.com. The .org site "looks" like the CapCity Kidz website, BUT it is not the same. The last post on the .org site was January 29, 2011. I have made several posts since, but they are showing up at the .com site. So when you check for updates, I just wanted you to go to the "right" site. I apologize for the confusion. :(

Thanks so much for understanding!
~PStaci

Lunch with Amelia

2011-02-18T23:11:00.000-05:00

Meems & PS

Anna, Amelia & PS

What a great day as I had lunch with Amelia! She chose to have McDonald's. I picked up her McDouble, small fry and sprite with McDonaldland Cookies, too! I have to be honest, I took 3 of her fries on the way to her school! They were quite delicious! Thanks, Meems!

Here are a few things I learned about Amelia:
Favorite color: orange
Favorite food: pasta
Favorite drink: smoothies
Favorite candy: Twix
Favorite movie: Despicable Me
Favorite book: Penderwicks
Favorite ice cream: vanilla
Favorite cartoon character: Goofy (mine, too!)
Favorite recess game: Mancala
Favorite Bible story: Daniel in the Lion's Den
Favorite class at school: Social Studies
Favorite animal: giraffe
Favorite TV Show: Arthur
Favorite song: Let Your Light Shine
Favorite sport to watch: football & basketball
Favorite sport to play: softball and basketball
Favorite friends at school: Anna, Alyson, Kayla, Mallory, Emma, Elizabeth, Alissa
Favorite friends at church: Grace, Dylan, Breanna, Faith Bl.
Favorite activity: dancing (ballet/tap)
What do you want to be when you grow up? an actress (yes, I can see it!)

Amelia, you are a very special young lady and I'm so proud of the way you shine for Jesus! Thanks for loving me and for always being so respectful and kind -- and thanks for your hugs!

Love you!

March Parent Link Newsletter and Calendar

2011-02-18T10:48:00.000-05:00

Parents, the CapCity Kidz March Calendar and Newsletter is here if you'd like to click on it.

Parenting Tip: Look for Positive Qualities Misused

2011-02-17T14:28:00.000-05:00

All children have good character qualities that, when taken to the extreme, have a negative side. One child may be quite organized, but if not careful, may become inflexible in a less structured situation. It's like the saying, "your strength can be your greatest weakness."

One mom told about her son who had a genuine sensitivity to others' needs. He was compassionate and cared for others and often felt things deeply. "I remember one time when he was younger, he began to cry when he saw an ambulance speeding down the road because he knew that someone was hurt inside. He's very caring. Unfortunately, sometimes this sensitivity can cause him to become moody or overly emotional, pouting or crying over the least little problem." So the positive quality is sensitivity but it can have a negative side of being moody or being prone to emotional outbursts.

Another mom saw that her son had the ability to work hard at a task without being distracted. "He focuses intensely, with real determination to succeed." This quality of being persistent can be a real asset, but sometimes it would show itself as stubbornness.

As you look at your children's weaknesses, look for a positive character quality they may be misusing. Look for ways to balance it with other character qualities. Give praise for the positive quality and encourage practical ways to bring balance. Envision a positive future for your child based on those qualities. Encourage small steps of adjustment to bring them in line.

Focusing on character is one of the ways to touch a child's heart and bring about lasting change.

What is a positive character quality you can affirm in your child? Take some time to talk about it with your child.

Click here to tell us the story.

This tip comes from the book, Home Improvement, The Parenting Book You Can Read to Your Kids, by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Paying it Forward: 4 Free Bible Games

2011-02-16T18:23:00.000-05:00

Click the following link for some great "free" Bible games to play!

http://www.christianitycove.com/free-bible-games/810/

Lunch with Faith

2011-02-11T08:31:00.004-05:00

I had such a fun time with Faith yesterday! She wanted Subway -- and boy, was it good! We talked the entire lunch time, too. I met some of her teachers and the Librarian walked us into lunch, so that was nice.

I learned a little more about Faith today and here's what she said.

Favorite color: green
Favorite food: brats with a side of sauerkraut (really?!)
Favorite drink: water
Favorite candy bar: Kit Kat
Favorite movie: Despicable Me
Favorite book: Humphrey series
Favorite ice cream: oreo
Favorite cartoon character: Sponge Bob/Bugs Bunny
Favorite recess game: drawing
Favorite Bible story: David & Goliath
Favorite class at school: Art
Best friends: Demi, Kathrine, Raina
Favorite church song: Tell the World
Favorite animal: Penguin
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Lamont-2nd grade
Favorite summer activity: rollerblading with neighborhood friends
Favorite winter activity: snow ball fights
Favorite place to eat: Subway
Favorite vacation: Florida
What do you want to be? an AT-95 designer for my parents or a vet
Something Faith wanted me to know: In 2 months, she hopes to get a non-shedding dog!

Faith, I had a great time with you at lunch. You are such a sweet girl and I'm so proud of you! I'm glad I'm your Kids Pastor!

Love you!

February 6, 2011: BGMC- Taiwan

2011-02-05T20:44:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is BGMC Sunday! The kids will be learning about Taiwan with Ms. Sara and Winnie the World. Click here for the BGMC Wordsearch with the memory verse words to find and a chance to get 500 ticket points to use in the Prize Locker on the 4th Sunday.

February's Parent Link

2011-02-05T20:34:00.000-05:00

For February's Parent Link, click here.

Parenting Tip: Be Firm Without Being Harsh

2011-02-04T17:09:00.002-05:00

Some parents believe that the only way to be firm is to be harsh. Firmness says that a boundary is secure and won't be crossed without a consequence. Harshness uses angry words and increased volume to make children believe that parents mean what they say. Some parents have assumed that firmness and harshness must go together. One mom said, "The thought of separating the two is like listening to a foreign language—it sounds nice but doesn't make any sense."

How do you make the change? Two things will help you remove harshness from your interaction with your children: Dialogue less and show less emotion. In an attempt to build relationship, some parents spend too much time dialoguing about instructions. They try to defend their words, persuade their children to do what they're told, or logically explain the value of obeying. This is often counterproductive. Parents then resort to anger to end the discussion, complicating matters further.

"But," one mom said, "I thought talking and showing emotion are signs of a healthy family, leading to closeness in family life." And that is true when they are used in the right way. Unfortunately, when added to the instruction process, these two ingredients confuse children and don't give them the clear boundaries they need. These are two good things, just in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Firmness requires action, not anger. Having a toolbox of consequences is important to help move children along in life. It's not optional. Some parents use anger as their consequence. These parents need more tools that will help their children make lasting changes.

If you find yourself being harsh, take time to reevaluate your response. More action, less yelling can go a long way to bring about significant change.

What are some ways you've been able to remove harshness from your parenting? Click here to tell us about it.

This tip comes from the book, Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes In You and Your Kids, by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN. In chapter 6 you'll find more honor-based parenting skills.

TOMORROW: Super 5th Sunday

2011-01-29T18:14:00.002-05:00

Parents, here are the 2 songs we are opening with on Sunday, January 30! Be upstairs in the kids room by 9:30 and we'll be able to run through them at least once.

Parenting Tip: Teach Children How to Listen

2011-01-29T18:12:00.000-05:00

A very important skill that children will need as adults is the ability to listen. Listening isn't easy. Most people would rather talk. Children interrupt, yell, and talk over each other, often resulting in misunderstanding. Teaching children how to listen can be a way to help them become less selfish.

One mom told how she taught her children to listen. "I use this technique whenever my boys are in conflict over a toy. I sit them down with the toy on the table and say, 'You can play with the toy as soon as you both agree on a plan.' I encourage them each to share an idea and listen to the other's idea.

I teach them about compromise, working together, and sharing, but I let them work it out. Sometimes they'll both be stubborn and I'll have them stay there until they can agree on a plan. I coach them along when they need it. They must always report back to me before continuing to play, providing an opportunity for me to affirm unselfishness and cooperation."

It can be fun to teach a five-year-old how to persuade a two-year-old, or help two eight-year-olds negotiate a solution. Conflict is turned into cooperation through listening.

I (Scott) like to joke with children, "Do you know why God made lips for your mouth but not for your ears?" or, "Why do you think God gave you one mouth and two ears? It's because God wants you to quiet your mouth sometimes, so you can listen."

James 1:19 gives children very practical advice. "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." As a parent, you have many opportunities to teach this valuable skill.

What are some ways you've been able to teach your children to listen to each other?

Blog taken from Biblical Parenting.

Lunch with Trinity

2011-01-27T15:20:00.000-05:00

Today, I had lunch with Trinity! We had a great time eating Arby's. I was rushing due to a terrible accident right at the exit I needed to get off on. At any rate, I'm thankful I got there just 2 minutes late and I wasn't really even late as her recess is first and then lunch. We had great lunch conversation, too.

PS and Trinity

Back: Trinity and her friend, Alex

Front: Amelia (AKA Meems) and her friend Allyson

Here are all the lunch buddies!

Here are a few things I learned about Trinity:

Favorite color: lime green

Favorite food: chicken

Favorite drink: rootbeer

Favorite candy: starburst

Favorite movie: Princess Diaries 2 (where they race mattresses)

Favorite book: Mandy series

Favorite ice cream: rainbow sherbet

Favorite cartoon character: Bugs Bunny

Favorite recess game: "fake money"

Favorite Bible story: Noah's Ark

Favorite class at school: Daily 3

Favorite TV show: 2 Stupid Dogs

Favorite sport: soccer

Favorite things to collect: candy wrappers and bobble heads

Favorite song in Kids church: Shout Your Fame

Favorite church activity: praise and worship

Favorite Saturday activity: sleeping in

Favorite teacher: Miss I (art teacher)

Favorite fast food: Arby's

Favorite car: Mom's -- it's awesome!

Favorite place to visit: mall (Easton/Polaris)

Instrument you'd like to play: flute

Best friends: Alex & Maddies, Madison & Dakota, and my church friends

Place you want to live when you grow up: California

What do you want to be when you grow up? Artist

So there you have it! We had a L-O-N-G lunch time (as you can tell by all the things we talked about!).

Trinity, you're a great girl and I'm so proud of the you and the way you love Jesus!

Love you!

Parenting Tip: Teaching Children When You Mean Business

2011-01-24T16:16:00.000-05:00

When we teach parents to avoid responding to their children in anger we get a common reaction, "But my kids won't obey unless I get angry."

And you're probably right, but only because you've taught your children to wait until you're angry before they have to obey. You give your kids cues to know when you mean business. Those cues tell your child that it's time to respond because your action point is coming next.

There is a definite connection between action point and anger. Many parents use the energy from anger to finally take action. When parents learn to tighten up their action point, then they don't have to use anger as the motivator. In fact, anger can often be a flag that your action point isn't tight enough.

If you find that you've relying on anger to motivate your children, then it's time to make a change. First, though, you need to develop a new plan. What signals do you want to use to indicate that it's time to clean up, or it's time to go? Maybe you'll use the child's name and obtain eye contact and use the word "now" in the instruction.

When you're ready to make the change, talk with your children. Explain that you have been wrong in teaching them to wait until you get angry before they start obeying. From now on you are going to tell them once, then comes the action. If your child doesn't respond to the new cues then move right to a consequence.

You may use a warning at first as your children are learning to respond to new cues. This helps them see that you mean business, but don't add several warnings or you defeat the purpose. Develop a routine with your kids so that they know when discussion or delays are over and obedience is required.

We don't encourage parents to always demand obedience. Children also learn from negotiation, compromise, and cooperation, but there is a time for children to respond whether they like it or not. Your kids need to know when that is and clarifying your action point will help them learn it.

Excerpt taken via Biblical Parenting by Joanne Miller

Super 5th Sunday

2011-01-24T15:55:00.000-05:00

Parents, here are the 2 songs we are opening with on Sunday, January 30! Be upstairs in the kids room by 9:30 and we'll be able to run through them at least once.

Elliana

2011-01-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

I had the privilege of meeting the newest member of CapCity Kidz today! Elliana was born on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 12:41 am and weighed 7 pounds 10 ounces and was 20.5 inches long! She has a head-full of blonde hair and is absolutely adorable!

When I texted her Daddy to see if I could come see her today, he said, "You had better hurry up and get here. Elliana wants to meet her Children's Pastor!" Oh, boy! I LOVE what I do and I love the families and children I get the privilege of leading and loving!

Pastor Staci meets sweet Elliana

Daddy giving Elliana a kiss.

Sweet family

Mommy kissing Elliana.

Thanks, M & M, for having Elliana -- and for giving me the joy of being her Children's Pastor. I'm honored!

Love you, sweet girl!

Ryan's Basketball Game

2011-01-23T19:59:00.002-05:00

I went to one of my student's basketball games on Saturday morning. He plays on an Upwards League.

Ryan and his friend, Connor, when they are not playing.

Ryan as the "point guard" dribbling away.

Ryan takes a shot, but misses -- maybe next time, Buddy!

Great game, Ry -- you were awesome!

Love you!

Sunday, January 23, 2011 -- CapCity Kidz

2011-01-23T19:37:00.000-05:00

Deal With It: Why Can't We Be Friends?

MAIN FOCUS: We must learn to disagree with others without fighting with them.

POWER VERSE: “In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing.” (Philippians 2:14)

BIG IDEA: If eye to eye you can’t see, you’ve gotta learn to agree to disagree.

Click here for this weeks wordsearch. Your kids can finish this page (front and back) for an easy 500 ticket points to use towards their prizes in the Prize Locker on 4th Sundays!

Lunch with Dylan

2011-01-23T19:34:00.000-05:00

I had a great lunch with Dylan on Friday! He wanted McDonalds and his school has one of the fastest lunches (11:20-11:35)! We had a great time!

Here are a few things I learned about Dylan:

Favorite color: all

Favorite food: cheese pizza

Favorite movie: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Favorite Bible story: Jonah and the whale

Favorite book: The Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Favorite candy: Milky Way

Favorite class at school: Math

Favorite sport: soccer

Favorite recess game: Four Square

Favorite ice cream: strawberry

Favorite board game (I think he thought I meant "bored"): golf (haha)

Favorite TV show: Bakugan

Favorite song at church: Shout Your Fame

What do you want to be when you grow up? a doctor

So, yeah, I had a great time at lunch with you, Dylan! You are a great kid and I'm so thankful for you!

Love ya!

Lunch with Jeffrey

2011-01-13T15:08:00.000-05:00

PS and Jeffrey

Jeffrey and his friend, Tim

I had lunch today with Jeffrey! We had a nice time and I got to meet some of his friends, too. Jeffrey wanted a Taco Bell bean burrito and a soft taco with a coke.

Here are a few things I learned about Jeffrey:

Favorite color: blue

Favorite food: pizza

Favorite drink: coke

Favorite candy: gum

Favorite movie: anything with baseball :)

Favorite book: Jackie Robinson

Favorite ice cream: vanilla

Favorite cartoon character: Sponge Bob

Favorite recess game: kickball

Favorite Bible story: Noah's Ark

Favorite class in school: Math

What do you want to be when you grow up: professional baseball player (Jeffrey informed me that he would like to play for the New York Mets and his favorite Ohio baseball team is the Cincinnati Reds!)

Jeffrey, you are a great kid and I loved having lunch with you and meeting your friends. Keep loving Jesus and telling your friends about Him!

Love ya ...

Parenting Tip: Look Out For Boasting

2010-12-26T22:16:00.009-05:00

One of the three causes of sibling conflict is that children want to be first or best. In fact, they often want to exalt themselves and put others down. When a child boasts a lot, it should be a flag that this area needs some attention. Kids say things like, "I know how to do that" or "I can do that better than you." Children try to feel good about themselves by focusing on their own accomplishments. They seem to say, “I feel good about myself if I can tell you how much better I am.” Sometimes children think that just because they did it faster or neater, than they're more valuable, but that’s not the way to measure importance.

Talk to children about how to measure their value and worth. It's not good enough to find people that you are better than. God’s solution to feeling good about who you are is to please him; and it all starts with being a humble servant.

A servant attitude directly addresses the problem of boasting. A servant’s reward is the statement, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Children must learn not to compete with others but to do the best job they can, comparing themselves only to themselves and the standards and goals appropriate for them.

When you hear boasting, or see a child elevating himself or herself while putting another down, take time to point out the mistake your child is making. It's best to point it out in private or at a later time by saying something like, "I have noticed something about the way you think that concerns me. It seems that you are measuring how good you are by comparing yourself to others. You seem eager to boast and point out ways you are better. I think you're going to be an unhappy person if you keep that up.

“When you see another person accomplish something good, I want you to say something nice about that person, not about yourself. Would you please think about that? If I hear you boasting, I'll try to point it out to help you see it. I'd like to help you think in more mature ways than that."

After all, James 4:16 says, "As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil."

What are some things you've done to teach your children about servanthood?

[**from Biblical Parenting by Joanne Miller]

Just a reminder:

2010-12-24T16:53:00.000-05:00

There will not be Sunday School on Sunday, December 26. We will have church only at 10:00 am. We'll have a Christmas party in CapCity Kidz and watch the musical, too. CCKidz, bring a snack to share! See you Sunday. Have a very, Merry CHRISTmas!

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-24T16:46:00.001-05:00

Modern Cranberry Noir Christmas

Shop Shutterfly for beautiful photo Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Here's the Christmas/New Year's Card I made on Shutterfly. Enjoy!

December 2010

Dearest Family & Friends,

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! I pray this finds you doing well & enjoying life. 2010 was a great year! In June during Missions Extreme (an in-state missions trip for 5th/6th graders), our team served in Painesville, OH & was privileged to work with Convoy of Hope for the culminating outreach at the end of the week. One of my biggest dreams is to drive a semi truck. Although I didn’t get to drive it, I did get to sit in the seat of the Convoy of Hope semi & even honked the horn! I LOVED that! For the first time, I had the opportunity to speak at Kids Camp this summer on the topic of going into all the world. I served with a great team of leaders & some of my kids got to go to camp, too. The Easter Egg Hunt is always a highlight! This year CapCity Church stuffed 10,000 eggs with candy & had a record attendance for the event. I attended 2 children’s ministry conferences this year, one in St. Louis, MO & the other in Murfreesboro, TN. I learned a lot at both! I was able to take 2 trips to FL--the first trip in January was terrible! It was so cold, with the highest temperature being just 59 & I only got to be in the sun for 5 hours! :( My time in FL during May was much better & was a much-needed break before all the summer activities began. I got to see Ty, Kelly & Marissa while there, too! What an honor it was for me when my good friends, James & Anitha, asked me to fly to Wisconsin to dedicate their baby in August. Also in August, I turned the big 4-0 & celebrated with a huge party with balloons animals, a bounce house, a cupcake-decorating station, a scrapbook page-making station, carnival games, great food, & so many special people! Ty, Kelly, & Marissa came up for a short trip in November (middle left: Marissa in the leaves, age 5; middle right: Kelly, me, Marissa, Ty & Gram, who turned 90 this year!). December 19 was the Christmas musical, Back to the Manger (top right: cast of Back to the Manger). Dad, Mom, & Gram came down to watch (bottom right). I am still living in Plain City with Joe, Lori & their dog, Bailey (top left). I continue to LOVE where God has called me to serve, Capital City Church. I LOVE my CapCity Kidz & the entire church family! I enjoy connecting with CapCity Kidz during weekly services, monthly movie nights, & weekly lunches at their schools/homes. Phew--what a great year! I’m looking forward to a great 2011 & wish you all a very happy & blessed New Year!

Love & prayers to you & yours, Staci

www.stacinskeep.com; www.capcitykidz.org; www.facebook.com/stacinskeep

Back to the Manger, December 19, 2010

2010-12-21T10:54:00.000-05:00

CapCity Kidz were amazing on Sunday! They did a wonderful job singing, ringing bells, and performing Back to the Manger. I'm so very proud of them! Thank you for all of your hard work, CapCity Kidz! Parents, thank you for your participation in helping your kids, too!

CapCity Kidz -- "Back to the Manger" cast

CapCity Toddlers (as sheep) and CapCity Preschool/K (as the nativity) singing "Away in a Manger."

CapCity Preschool/K ringing their handbells to "Joy to the World" and "Away in a Manger".

Have a Merry Christmas!

Love you all,

Don't Forget to Say Thank You!

2010-12-21T10:36:00.000-05:00

Gratefulness is an important life quality because it helps us to be thankful for what we have instead of complaining about what we don't have. Gratefulness is a lifestyle but it starts by saying "Thank you" to others who bless us.

Begin now to prepare your children for receiving gifts. Talk about the importance of the giver, not just the gift. Teach children to look at the nametag first so they can be thinking of the person who gave the gift while they open it. Encourage children to express thanks to the giver, even if that person is not in the room at the time. A phone call to extended family or a thank you note to a distant friend can mean a lot.

Gift receiving sometimes provides that awkward moment when we want to ask, "What is this?" or discover that we already have one of these. Play a "What if" game with children to help them anticipate how they might say thank you in those times.

Opening gifts can happen fast and then children are off playing with new toys and games. Helping them to take time to express gratefulness can extend the true meaning of Christmas past the few hours of Christmas Day. And don't forget to take time to thank the Lord for his special gift in Jesus Christ for us.

What are some things you've done to teach your children about gratefulness?

Blog post taken from here.

Lunch with Bryce

2010-12-16T16:35:00.002-05:00

PS and Bryce at his school

Well, today's lunch was great fun! Having lunch truly is one of the highlights of my week! Bryce chose Raising Cane's Chicken -- good choice! I found the cafeteria after having to go through a new-to-me check-in system (notice the sticker with my pic on it!-- pretty fancy!). Bryce was patiently waiting and before we ate, he asked the blessing over our food and the rest of our days! I got to see some of Bryce's friends who've been at movie nights before, Jaylen and Colton.

Here's what I learned about Bryce today:

Favorite color: black

Favorite food: pepperoni pizza

Favorite drink: Mt. Dew

Favorite candy: Reece's

Favorite movie: Jaws (!!) and Black Beauty

Favorite book: Dangerous Book for Boys (Thanks to his Wed. night small group leader, Paul!)

Favorite ice cream: cookie dough

Favorite recess game: Wall Ball

Favorite Bible story: Noah's Ark

Favorite class at school: Math

What do you want to be? Architect
Who are your closest friends? Colton, Jaylen, Harrison

We had a great day! Bryce, keep loving Jesus! Looking forward to the time I can beat you at ping pong! :) Oh, one last thing, as we were leaving the cafeteria, a student dropped his water bottle from his tray and Bryce picked it up for him! You're a keeper, Bryce -- thanks for your politeness!
Love you!

Lunch with Eli

2010-12-09T15:04:00.000-05:00

PS with Eli at his school

I had a great time at lunch with Eli today! He ordered a Wendy's cheeseburger (ketchup only), fries and chocolate milk. I also got to meet his teacher, some of his friends, and I got to see his awesome classroom with the smart board!

Here are a few things I learned about Eli today:

Favorite color: orange

Favorite food: ribs

Favorite drink: rootbeer

Favorite candy: Hershey chocolate bar

Favorite movie: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Favorite book: 7th Harry Potter

Favorite ice cream: chocolate

Favorite recess game: four square and soccer

Favorite Bible story: Noah's Ark

Favorite class at school: Gym -- then Social Studies

What do you want to be? architect

Eli, thanks for using such good manners and for being so polite. You are very special to me!

Love you!

Parenting Tip: Being a Servant at Christmas

2010-12-09T14:56:00.000-05:00

Sometimes children believe that the whole world revolves around them. Parents, at times, contribute to a child-centered mentality and further reinforce this misconception. Kids can get the impression that parents, siblings, and even the family pets are there simply to make them happy. The result is children being demanding and having an unpleasant attitude.

One of the ways to counteract this tendency is to teach children to be servants and Christmas is a great time to start. Planning and giving gifts, preparing food treats for others, setting the table, and cleaning up Christmas messes are all ways to demonstrate servanthood. You might have your children take turns giving out the gifts that are under the tree instead of just finding their own and opening them up.

Listening to others, watching family members open gifts, saying thank you, sharing, and looking for ways to help are all ideas for kids to demonstrate a servant attitude at Christmastime.

Use the word "servant" and teach children about its positive meaning in life. Talk about how being a servant is really a gift to others. After all, Jesus became a servant by becoming a man and coming to earth as our Savior (Philippians 2:5).

What are some things you've done to teach your children about servanthood?

(**Blogpost taken from Biblical Parenting)

"He's Here" and "Light of the Whole World"

2010-12-08T14:04:00.000-05:00

These are excerpts from The Jesus Storybook Bible. Here it is with the audio CD's. And here is just the Bible without the audio CD's.

Enjoy!

Parenting Tip: Drawing the Line on Tattling

2010-12-07T14:31:00.005-05:00

Tattling is one way that children point out problems rather than trying to make things better. It's important to teach children what offenses they should report to a parent and what they should try to resolve on their own or just ignore.

Parents need to know when property or people are in danger, but much of the daily infractions or mistakes made fall into a gray area requiring discernment on the part of a parent and child. You don't want to remove all reporting of offenses because sometimes you'll rely on one child to help you know when another is in danger or in trouble.

Sometimes a child should overlook an irritation and not be so easily provoked. If a child has tried to resolve the problem, and the offense isn't one to drop, then the child should report it to an adult. This isn't tattling. It's following a biblical model of conflict management. The Scriptures teach that if a problem can't be resolved between two people, then one should get another person involved in the process (Matthew 18).

The way the offense is reported and the motivation behind the report is important. If you sense that your child is just trying to get the other child in trouble, then that report is motivated by selfishness and is considered tattling.

As a parent, you have to be careful that children don't use you to get the upper hand in their arguments with each other. Tattling is often an attempt to draw you in to rescue the victim, and the way the story is reported to you often makes the urge seem irresistible. Unfortunately victims aren't always as innocent as they make it seem. You can use tattling to teach children how to report offenses in an honoring way, without exaggeration or coloring the truth, and admitting their own part of the problem.

Like many issues in family life, tattling can be a great teaching opportunity.

What are some ways you've helped your child demonstrate honor with brothers and sisters?

**Blogpost taken from Biblical Parenting by Joanne Miller

Parenting Tip: Christmas, A Time to Teach Generosity

2010-12-02T15:12:00.001-05:00

Christmas is a highlight in the life of most children, but much of the benefit is focused on what they get. Of course one of the blessings of Christmas is giving, so look for ways to teach children generosity this year.

Here are some ideas:

Involve kids in your gift giving strategy or help them develop their own. Planning, shopping, and wrapping can each provide ways for children to think about blessing others.

Anticipate with your children the delight others will experience when the gifts are opened. Help your child enjoy the fun others will have when receiving gifts.

Ask children the question, "What are you doing this year to make Christmas special for others?" This question alone can help teens think of others instead of just themselves. A short discussion can help move kids from selfish tendencies to generosity.

And most importantly, remind children of the generosity of God by sending us a special gift in his Son.

How have you been able to help teach your kids generosity?

*** Taken from http://www.biblicalparenting.info/

Lunch with Ryan

2010-12-02T14:23:00.001-05:00

Today, I had lunch with Ryan at his school. He wanted a McDonalds Happy Meal with a cheeseburger, fries and a lemonade. Of course, he liked the toy he got, too! I got to meet his teacher and some of his classmates. One little girl asked right away if I had my Christmas tree up! :) haha

Ryan and PS at lunch

I have been trying to get in the habit of asking the kids some of their favorite things. Here are Ryan's answers.

Favorite food: pizza

Favorite color: green

Favorite book: Dr. Seuss

Favorite drink: lemonade

Favorite class at school: Bible

Favorite movie: How To Train Your Dragon

Favorite candy bar: candy cane

Favorite ice cream: chocolate

Favorite cartoon character: Star Wars

Favorite recess game: dodgeball [which he thought I could stay to play with them! :)]

Favorite Bible story: David & Goliath

Who's your best friend? Dominic, but he moved away, so Elijah's next.

What do you want to be when you grow up? policeman

Ryan, I had a great lunch with you! Love you so!
CAPS

That's What Christmas Is All About

2010-11-28T20:34:00.000-05:00

Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Lights please...

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flocks by night, and lo the angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid, and the angel said unto them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a savior, tis Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger."
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

Truly, as the hustle and bustle begins, I pray that we all remember what Christmas is truly all about.

Parenting Tip: Explain New Rules Before You Start

2010-11-24T09:50:00.000-05:00

One of the ways to change patterns of behavior in children is what we call a Parent/Child Evaluation Meeting. Parents can call this meeting when they see unwanted patterns and are about to focus on change.

The purpose of the meeting is to explain to the child how things are going to be different and ways that parents are now going to change their behavior to address some critical issues in the child. Here are some things that make Parent/Child Evaluation Meetings successful.

1) Announce in advance that you (both parents if possible) will have a meeting alone with your child. “John, Mom and I are going to have a meeting with you after dinner this evening.” The anticipation raises the felt level of importance to the meeting. Making this announcement in advance with teens and even giving a preview of the topic is also an honoring thing for parents to do since it allows everyone to come to the meeting prepared.

2) Meet with each child alone. You may want to do this with all of your children, but do it with them one at a time. Children have a way of hiding behind each other or defusing the importance of the meeting when others are present.

3) At the meeting share at least three things that the child is doing well or that you’ve appreciated lately. Share positive character qualities you see developing. “I like how responsible you’ve been with the dog lately. You’re doing a good job. I also like how diligently you do your homework. It’s been fun to watch you grow this year. I’ve also noticed your kindness with the baby, playing with her when she’s fussy. You’re growing up.”

4) Then share one concern you have which will hinder your child’s success if not addressed. “I have one concern I’d like to share with you...” Prepare what you will say in advance to give your child a vision for change by explaining why the change will be helpful. Always give specific suggestions for appropriate behavior. Ask the child to work on changing and agree to get back together the next day or in a few days to talk again.

Sometimes making observations in this formal way is enough to motivate children to think about their actions and make changes. More often than not, however, you’ll need to gently point out the dishonoring behavior when you see it, in order to help your child recognize it. Consequences may also be needed. The meeting actually helps children understand the new rules of play so they're not surprised by the changes.

How have you been able to help get kids to want to change? Click here to tell us about it.

This parenting tip was taken from the book, Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes, In You and Your Kids, by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

[taken from www.biblicalparenting.org]

The Story of Jonah

2010-11-24T09:45:00.001-05:00

Truly a must-see! SO CUTE! This delightful little girl will bring a smile to your face as she tells the most enchanting, fascinating and educational story of Jonah ever told! :) What a blessing!

**Video from Corinth Baptist Church

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T17:08:00.000-05:00

Just wanted you all to know how thankful I am for each of you! May God continue to bless you richly this Thanksgiving season!
Love,

Lunch with Jenson

2010-11-22T15:03:00.000-05:00

What a fun time I had today bringing lunch to Jenson! He wanted his meal from Wendy's. He and I had made a deal that we'd surprise his brother and Mom with a special chocolate treat as he wanted to "share" his lunch time with them! What a sweet boy! Lots of fun topics were covered at the lunch table, but mainly we stayed on the topic of fast cars (of which I know nothing about!). I learned about the Bugatti Veyron.

PS and Jenson

Right before I left, Jenson noticed that my front left tire was flat -- well, it was low, now flat. So I asked the boys if they would like to help me pump it up. So we got out the air compressor and away we went. Jayden took the cap off and I plugged in the pump. He turned it on and Jenson turned off the compressor when Jayden asked him to as the gauge was to the correct number. Thanks for your help, boys! So glad it didn't get any flatter!

Jenson and Jayden pumping up PS' tire.

All in all, I had a wonderful lunchtime with Jenson and his family! Thanks, Jenson -- love you!

Free Veggie Tales MP3 Available

2010-11-22T07:22:00.000-05:00

Charlene, over at "My Frugal Adventures" found where you can get this CD for free. Click here to find out the details! I already have this one ... it's a great kids Christmas CD and to think, you can get the MP3 downloads for FREE!

ENJOY!