September 2020
Your greatest contribution may not be something you do but someone you raise."
— Andy Stanley
VBS 2020 - VIRTUALLY!
We just finished our first virtual VBS! We used a super fun program called Faith Labs @ Home. It's an at home VBS with five sessions - once you signed up you had access to all sessions. This allowed parents to work it into their schedule, instead of scheduling around it. West Side chose to implement it with one session each Monday in August... continue reading
Address Rebellion with Love
(From www.group.com; Parenting Christian Kids Newsletter)

After a summer of “freedom” and relaxed rules, September’s return to school and schedules often poses a challenge for children. On top of that, 2020 has been filled with new restrictions and limits that are tough for everyone to comply with and comprehend.  

As the pandemic drags on, kids are likely to have more questions about why they need to stay home or wear masks, and why they can’t enjoy certain activities or venues that are temporarily shut down. Read more
Back to School Plan

Like us, you’re probably wondering: When did summer start? Did summer even happen? What month is it? What day of the week is it?

Well, believe it or not, it’s time to go back to school. And whether your kid is going to school face-to-face or face-to-screen, this school year will be unique. 

For the past few months, you and your family have probably found yourselves with a little more “together” time than you’re used to (and for some of you, it’s been a bit too much “together” time...) Either way, there’s one thing we can all agree on—life happens, and when we’re not intentional with our time, it slips through our fingers.

The past few months have been survival. And that’s okay. But going back to school means a new rhythm for your family. A fresh start. An opportunity to create intentional moments for you and your family to connect. 

That’s why we’ve designed a resource to help you make a plan for the things that matter to your family during the 2020-2021 school year. So grab your calendars, bribe your family with some delicious snacks, and sit down together to create your personalized 2020 Back-to-School Plan!
Games, Podcasts & Apps
(From www.group.com; Parenting Christian Kids Newsletter)

Jump Rope Challenge 
This simple Nintendo Switch game, inspired by pandemic-related lockdowns, is free on the eShop until Sept 30. Using the Joy-Con, players make a bunny jump in time with them. Jump Rope Challenge makes a noble yet limited attempt to get gamers moving. 

Music Box 
Using interactivity, this music-education podcast teaches children about fundamentals in fun ways. Episodes explore concepts such as meter and pitch, songwriting basics, and what different instruments sound like. Host Faith Murphy and special guests introduce listeners to a wide range of musical styles. 

WideOpenSchool
From the nonprofit Common Sense Media, this app offers a vast, organized collection of educational resources. Parents new to online learning or home-schooling will appreciate all the subject matter—for pre-K through grade 12—from sources such as Scholastic, National Geographic, and PBS. 


Just call me GMA!!! 

Introducing Joshua and Jess’s new son James!

Born August 9, 2020

What a special gift
from God!!