×
Get the Turning 18 Checklist!
Join the Parenting High Schoolers community and get the Turning 18 Checklist and a weekly newsletter of tips just for parents of teens!
Here is the thing about your teens. They might act all cool and aloof. But, here is the truth… They love everything you have ever done for the holidays. They love the traditions. Here are some great ideas for teens at Valentine’s.
So much in their world is stressful and difficult. They look forward to some of these things all year. If YOU are super stressed, ask them to rank their favorite things, and then ask if something can be dropped because everyone (or most everyone) put it toward the bottom of their list.
If you haven’t made a big deal about Valentines Day in the past, this would be a great time to start. After all, this holiday is all about LOVE! And, ASK FOR HELP! Your teen would probably rather do something for you themselves than give it up. This would be a win-win! *This post may contain affiliate links. My full disclosure policy is here.
Pin for later!
11 Advent Calendars for Valentines Day -Your Teen Will Love
They are a hit at Christmas, so why not continue the fun for this season as well?
Advent calendars are anticipation for a special event. There are so many fun advent calendars available! I decided that this would be a fun post, and my boys and a couple of their girlfriends helped me to find advent calendars that teens will love.
25 Movies for Valentine’s Day: Movies About Love
Valentine’s season is here, and it’s a great time to watch some movies about love. These are not all about romantic love, but love between friends and family as well. These are great movies to use as a springboard to some conversations about realistic love. Make a bowl of popcorn, and have a movie marathon!
Best Valentine’s Gifts to Give and Get For Teens
Valentine’s Day can be such a fun time for teens. Even for teens that do not have a special “other person”, giving gifts to a bestie or other friends can be fun! Finding the best Valentine’s gifts can be a lot of fun, and there are many great activities as well that I list at the bottom for fun!
Best Valentines Decor For A Dorm Room: 9 Fun Ideas
Valentine’s Day is such a fun holiday! Here is some great Valentines decor for a dorm room. A great way to get involved at college is for your teen to participate in a decorating contest!
A great way for your teen to create a homey spot for themself is to get into the holiday spirit, no matter the holiday! My boys never chose to do this, but I know that lots of students might choose to embrace these ideas!
Send a Sugarwish! So many sweet snack choices -savory too!
Do you need a date night with your special someone? Here are “date night in” boxes!
Here are great Valentine gift ideas for almost anyone!
Some pretty initial jewelry is fun to give.
Valentine Day clothing is always fun.
There are such great gifts here for any woman/girl that you know!
I hope you can use some of these ideas for teens at Valentines!
Gift Guide for a Teen’s Easter Basket
Inquiring Minds Want to Know: “What Are the Best High School Graduation Gifts”
Cinco de Mayo With Teens Can Be So Fun!
15+ Best Gift Guides for Teens!
Best Year Round Posts for Parenting Teens and Tweens: 50+ Titles
Visit my Facebook page, and follow me on Pinterest and YouTube! I look forward to seeing you again! And, finally, if you feel like this post was helpful, please share it on your favorite social media platform! Thank you so much!❤️
Pin for later!
The quote below is so true, and I am going to help you out this season to find some really great games to play with your teens!
Many people think that they only have time to play games on vacation or at the holidays. Unfortunately, we fall into that group a lot of the time. But, when we do take the time to actually play a game, it is always so fun!
Have fun with your teens on Game Night!
Let’s face it, time with our teens is so precious. We know that the times that they are with us is limited. They leave for college, and are home for vacations less and less. Also, even when they are still living under our roof, they get busier and busier with school and work. Plus, there are real benefits for everyone if you do this!
So, my resolution for time going forward, is that we are going to try to play a game on those weekends when my boys are randomly home from college, or when we are just bored and turn on the t.v. for another binge watching session. I know we will be glad once we have done this!
Pin for later!
Here is the list of games to play with your teens that my family and I have put together for you. Some we have played, some have been recommended to us, and some look too great to not mention! *This post may contain affiliate links. My full disclosure policy is here.
In case you also like puzzles, check out these!
Kids Against Maturity –Oh my goodness! We just came across this game at a friend’s house -hilarious! You have to know that a lot of the humor is geared towards teens, so farts are a part of this game. It is a game that is perfect to relieve any type of family tension!
Password -(This is the original version) I have many great memories of family and friends playing this hilarious game! You can play it so many different ways, and each way is fun!
Pick Your Poison -a modern day version of “Would you rather?” Super fun for all ages, and the answers just might surprise.
Trivial Pursuit -This is an oldie, but a goodie. Always fun to see what your people know-or not! There are so many versions, but the original is always a good choice. Here is the Star Wars version and the Harry Potter version.
Quelf -This game is sooooo much fun! You have to obey the card, and the commands can be super silly. The last time we played this, we laughed so hard. It is a more active game, and great for all ages–I’d say 12 and up.
“Some games are fun even when you lose. Even when you know you are going to lose before you start. It’s fun just playing them.“–Nevil Shute
Sequence -This is such a fun card game! It combines a board with a card game. It involves strategy, and can be played individually or with teams.
Wits and Wagers -Questions, guesses and bets. Great multi-generational game with all sorts of crazy questions and answers. I have only played this once at a friend’s house, but we had a great time!
Spontuneous -Do your kids quote movies or song lyrics like crazy? Then this is the game for them! Words are given, and then the race is one to blurt out a song with that word in it. You don’t have to sing, so no talent is required! I think that my teens will love this one. Goat Lords -This sounds like a crazy fun game. The goal is to become the Goat Lord. The way to do this is to have the biggest herd of goats (cards) at the end of the game. There is much magic and dueling involved!
Catan -This is the game that my boys still look forward to playing when they are all at home! Here is the extension so that more can play!
Taboo -This game will make you laugh so much. Get your teammate to guess the word, but the trick is to not use certain words which makes this challenging. This is fun to play with big family groups or friends. Here is the Midnight version, for older teens and adults. Apples to Apples -Our boys love this game. We’ve played for hours with their cousins and my sisters. Some very funny red apple cards have been thrown down to describe the green apple card. Their is also a junior version and a Disney version!
Holidays are a great time for good family fun. Let me know if you have any favorites that I didn’t list. I can always add more later! Remember that playing a game with your family is always a good idea!
Toys and Games for Teens with ADHD: 27 Great Finds
Budget Friendly Ideas for the Holidays
Movies to Watch with Your Teens for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
15+ Best Gift Guides for Teens
Best Year Round Posts for Parenting Teens and Tweens: 50+ Titles!
Make sure to visit my Facebook page, and follow me on Pinterest and YouTube where I share lots of helpful info for parents of tweens and teens! And, finally, if you feel like this post was helpful, please share it on your favorite social media platform! Thank you so much!❤️
Pin for later!
Movies are a great way to enjoy sports! There are so many motivating moments and life lessons to learn… Here are the best sports movies for teens to enjoy. Many of these movies are wonderful sports movies for families and sports movies for kids.
I told my boys that I was writing a Best Sports Movies for Teens post, and they helped me to come up with this list. They are grouped by sport for the most part. At the end, there is a short list of sports movies that are for older teens.
I tried to keep most of these family friendly, but of course, you decide which movies are right to show to your teens. IMBD is great for checking out specifically why movies are rated what they are. Here is our list of the best sports movies ever!
Pin for later!
Almost all of these movies are based on true events and/or people. All are uplifting. Many have great lessons about persistence, hard word, and dedication to name a few. I hope you will enjoy them! Most of these choices are family friendly for all ages, so this list could also be titled, best sports movies for kids! *This post may contain affiliate links. My full disclosure policy is here.
Remember the Titans -(PG) Based on true events. Loved Denzel as a coach with a lot to overcome!
Friday Night Lights -(PG-13) Based on true events. Great characters and a great story about the pressures of high school football.
The Blind Side -(PG-13) Based on true events. Inspiring story about love and doing the right thing.
When The Game Stands Tall -(PG) True story about a winning coach that tries to keep the streak going.
Brian’s Song-(the original) (G) Based on true events. Not going to lie, this is a tear jerker, but such a great story about love and friendship during some tough situations.
Invincible -(PG) Based on true events.The amazing story of Vince Papale. My middle son owns this movie, and he watches it all the time!
We Are Marshall -(PG) Based on the heartbreaking true story of the loss of an entire football team and the coach that rebuilt the team and the community.
Greater -(PG) Based on true events. This was a sleeper about the greatest walk-on in history who played for the University of Arkansas.
Rudy -(PG) Based on true events. Talk about determination.
Hoosiers -(PG) Based on true events. This is an awesome story with an amazing cast! Gene Hackman is one of my favorites!
Coach Carter -(PG-13) Based on true events. This is a story of a controversial coach who values education.
Glory Road -(PG-13) Based on true events. Great story about a coach who led the first all-black team to the NCAA national championship.
The Winning Season -(PG-13) Not based on true events. Called The Bad News Bears of girl’s basketball. Cute movie!
Hoop Dreams -This is the real life stories of two inner city kids making it big in professional basketball, will inspire anyone that wants a career based on their own natural talent.
The Last Dance -(TV-MA) I walked through the living room a couple of times while my boys were watching this series. They loved it!
The Natural – (PG) Not based on true events. Awesome movie with Robert Redford, ’nuff said.
A League of Their Own -(PG) Based on true events. This is such a fun movie about the short-lived women’s baseball league during WW2. The cast is fabulous, and so many great one-liners and lessons to take away.
8 Men Out -(PG) Based on true events. I remember really liking this movie, even though it is about a team throwing their season back in 1919. Great cast and great lessons to be learned.
The Bad News Bears-(the original) (PG) Not based on true events. This movie was great when I was a kid, and my boys all love it as well. I am speaking about the original.
Moneyball -(PG-13) Based on true events. This movie is about statistics, money, and how they affect the game of baseball. I have never thought about statistics in such a positive way before…
The Sandlot -(PG) Not based on true events. This movie has been a favorite in our house for years. Great movie about baseball, friends and growing up!
Field of Dreams -This inspirational movies is all about people discovering their purpose and the meaning of life.
42 -(PG-13) Based on the life of Jackie Robinson. Such a great story!
The Rookie -(G) Based on true events. I love this movie! The story about a coach who makes a bet with his team, and he ends up having to live up to his side when they have a winning season.
61* -(TV-MA) Based on true events. I have not seen this one, but it’s about the summer of 1961, and two baseball players competing to break Babe Ruth’s record for home runs.
For Love of the Game -(PG-13) Not based on true events. Kevin Costner in another great baseball role. It all takes place during one game while the protagonist is on the mound against the Yankees in a series of flashbacks. Another great cast.
Million Dollar Arm – (PG) Based on true events about converting cricket players to baseball players.
Invictus -(PG-13) Based on true events. The wonderful true story of Nelson Mandela using the game of rugby to unite the country of South Africa. (I have a great friend from South Africa who lived through this happening, such an awesome story and movie!)
Bend It Like Beckham -(PG-13) Not based on true events. Great story about a young Indian woman who rebels against her parents to play soccer.
United -(PG-13) Based on true events. Manchester United comes back after a tragic plane crash. I have not seen this one, but a friend said he loved it.
Pele: Birth of a Legend -(PG) Based on the life of Pele. Tells the story of his childhood up through him playing soccer for Brazil. Amazing story. One of my boys watched this at a friend’s house back when he played soccer a couple of years ago. He loved this movie!
The Miracle Match -(PG) Based on true events. This is the “miracle” story of the US men’s soccer team in the 1950 Brazil summer Olympics. This is another one that we haven’t seen, but the boys want me to order it. I will keep you posted:) (This was not available in Prime)
Rocky -(PG) Not based on true events. Best underdog story. I don’t even like boxing, but this is a must-see. I did not realize that Sylvester Stallone wrote this! There are tons of sequels, but none as good as this first.
Million Dollar Baby -(PG-13) Not based on true events. I loved this movie, not so much for the boxing, as the characters, especially Morgan Freeman. I also loved how the girl never gave up!
Real Steel -(PG-13) Not based on true events. My boys insisted that this be included in the list for boxing movies even though, it’s not “people” boxing. It is a unique story which we all really liked. I hadn’t even thought of it, but the boys said to add this to my list. If you haven’t seen this, give it a try.
The Power of One -(PG-13) Not based on true events. This is an amazing movie about growing up in complicated times. An orphan boys in South Africa during apartheid learns some really difficult lessons. He not only overcomes them, but is able to use his skills as a boxer to take on the system and help change a way of life.
Cool Runnings -(PG) Based on true events. This is such a fun movie. Lots of memorable characters.
Miracle-(PG) Based on true events. I remember watching this in real time, and the movie does a great job showing the whole story. One of our family favorites!
Eddie the Eagle -(PG-13) Based on true events. Eddie is so determined, and what a fun movie. My youngest watched this one every day for awhile.
Unbroken -(PG-13) Based on true events. Louis Zamparini was an amazing young man who not only runs in the Olympics, he goes to hell and back during WW2. Amazing story of survival. Watch with Race.
The Cutting Edge -(PG) Not based on true events. Still a fun movie about pairs ice skating. The pair come together in an unusual way, and cannot stand each other, but need each other to compete. Great rom-com!
The Greatest Game Ever Played -(PG) Based on true events. A young golfer has dreams of challenging the top golfer of his day. Great underdog story!
The Legend of Bagger Vance -(PG-13) Not based on true events. Great movie about a golfer after WW2 who is looking to find and forgive himself, and to move forward. Golf is the vehicle for this transformation and life lessons learned. Wonderful cast.
Tommy’s Honour –(PG) Based on true events. This is the story of the development of the game of golf by a father and son.
Bobby Jones, Stroke of Genius -(PG) Based on true events. This movie is a bit slow, but so interesting about a young man, Bobby Jones, battling many difficulties, including chronic pain in his spine, who has record-breaking success in 1930.
Secretariat -(PG) Based on true events. I loved this movie! Such a great horse. Such a great story!
Seabiscuit -(PG-13) Based on true events. A small horse and a jockey team up with the trainer and a businessman for a great race. I think that I secretly always loved horses because this was another one I loved!
Dreamer -(PG) Based on true events. Such a sweet movie about a dad and daughter and a horse.
Hildago -(PG-13) Based on true events. This is such an amazing story about a 3,000 mile race through the Arabian Desert. Man and horse and all the elements–so good!
Chariots of Fire -(PG) Based on true events. 1924 Olympics. Two men competing to prove more than who is faster. Classic!
McFarland, USA -(PG) Based on true events. Loved this movie! Another great underdog story. We watch it all the time:)
Race -(PG-13) Based on true events. This is the story of Jesse Owens and the 1936 Olympics. Watch with Unbroken.
Breaking Away -(PG) Not based on true events. A young man who is obsessed with Italian cyclists. He also likes a girl… A great coming of age movie. (Only available on Prime Video.)
The Karate Kid-(the original) ( PG) Not based on true events. You probably have seen this, but if you have only seen the remake, this one is worth watching!
Ford vs. Ferrari – (PG-13) Based on true events. Not available for purchase yet. We all loved this true story about fast cars and friendship. (Only available on Prime Video for now).
Touching the Void -(R) Based on true events. Read this book last fall, and I had no idea that there was a movie. The events that occurred on this mountain in Peru are nothing less than amazing. The re-enactment will have you on the edge of your seat. (This is rated R, but mostly for language, and the horror of the accident.)
The World’s Fastest Indian -(PG-13) Based on true events. A man and his motorcycle go fast. I loved this movie because it is such a great story. Great cast!
Soul Surfer -(PG) Based on true events. I just saw this for the first time the other day. It was really great. You would never find me going back into that water again. This girl is amazing for many reasons-that only being one of them!
Battle of the Sexes -(PG-13) Based on true events. I almost put this on the older teens list for a couple of reasons. This was a great movie, and I loved the way the movie showed how much women had to do to get any sort of equality on and off the tennis court. Wow, I had no idea that was happening when I was a kid!
The Last American Hero -(PG) Based on true events. This is an oldie and a bit clunky-definitely not a smooth modern-day racing movie. The cast is great, and it shows the story of Junior Johnson becoming a racetrack driver after delivering moonshine. My boys loved all the old cars. (The link is for Amazon prime video.)
The Gabby Douglas Story -(NR) Based on true events. I have not seen this one. My friend who has a daughter/gymnast says it is a great family movie. There is now one about Simone Biles!
Free Solo -(PG-13) Based on true events. A man climbs the face of a mountain with no ropes, nothing… Incredible story!
Wildcats -(R) Not based on true events, but still a great movie! Goldie Hawn stars as wanna-be coach who ends up with a job that no one wants. I loved this because all she wants to do is coach like her dad did. She finally gets to live her dream. This is rated R, but mostly for language.
Major League -(R) Not based on true events. This movie is a fun look at a losing team who somehow figures out that their owner wants them to lose so that she can move the team.
Ali -(R) Based on true events. My boys all loved this one. I have not seen this one.
Tin Cup -(R) Not based on true events. Down and out golfer wants to make it to the US Open and get the girl. Great cast.
This was my list of the best sports movies for teens. The post was really fun to write with my boys, and we have been watching a ton of these lately. I have always loved sports, and I also love movies. This is one of my favorites genres I think! If I have missed any that you love, let me know!
Blue-tooth projector -I really want one of these after seeing it work at a friends house.
Do you have tween or teen? Here is a parent survival kit for helping your teen through high school
Middle school is a great time to try new things -including sports!
Scholarship Tips and Tricks: You Can Start in Middle School!
49 Movies to Watch for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas
29 Ways to Prepare for College
College Bound: Get Ready for College with Conversations
Best Year Round Posts for Parenting Teens and Tweens: 50+ Titles!
Make sure to visit my Facebook page, and follow me on Pinterest and YouTube where I share lots of helpful info for parents of tweens and teens! And, finally, if you feel like this post was helpful, please share it on your favorite social media platform! Thank you so much!❤️
Have I missed any best sports movies for teens? What are your favorites? Post them in the comments below.
Pin for later!
Here are the best year round posts for parenting teens and tweens!
These are the best year round posts for parenting teens. There are holiday and birthday gift guides. New driver. Graduation. Budgeting for college. Scholarship search. Ways to prep for college and adulthood. There are also posts that are helpful for different times of the year.
Raising teens can be a challenge. I am here to make gift giving easier. If there is one thing that I know, it is that with the expense of raising kids, we want the money we spend on them to make sense. To be the best choices for out kids. To not be a waste.
That’s where I come in. I have spoken to parents about what their teens have liked and what has not gone over well. I have researched and have found answers to the issues that we all face as parents of teens.
The other posts come from hours of research and real life experiences with our boys that will hopefully help you along the way.
This is all with the goal to help YOU with timely help by month that will make YOUR parenting journey easier.
*This post may contain affiliate links. My full disclosure policy is here.
Pin for later!
How To Plan a Budget for College Next Year
15+ Best Gift Guides for Teens for Events Year-Round
Ideas For Parents in January: 10 Timely Tips
25+ Movies for Valentine’s Day All About Love!
Advent Calendars for Valentine’s Day
Decorate a Teen’s Room/Dorm Room For V-Day
49 Ideas for Teens at Valentine’s
Ideas for Parents in February: 10 Timely Wins
Ideas for Parents in March: 10 Timely Tips
Dorm Room Decor For Springtime: 11 Easy Ideas!
7 Helpful Ways to Help Your Student Prepare for Finals -Midterms Too!
Parents: Are You Asking Yourself, “How Will We Pay For College Next Fall?”
Gift Guide for a Teen’s Easter Basket
When You Have An 18 Year Old: Information You Need To Know
Self-care: Give Yourself the Gift of 4:15
5 Easy Ways to Improve Communication With Your Teen
Ideas for Parents in April: 10 Timely Tips
Gifts for a Teen’s Easter Basket
Stressed Out Teens? 15 Simple Ways Parents Can Help
The Ultimate List of Conversations to Help Your Teen Through High School
5 Easy Ways to Improve Communication With Your Teen
What Are The Best Subscription Boxes For Mom? 25+ Great Ideas
Ideas For Parents in May: 10 Timely Tips
The Best Books to Give At Graduation: 29 Great Choices
Give Yourself the gift of 4:15
Mom Time Out: Ways to Make It Happen
Gifts For Dad That Teens Can Afford
Don’t Lose Your Cool With Your Teen (for the summer)
Ideas for Parents in June: 10 Timely Tips
First Kitchen Essentials for an Apartment (start looking now to have it all by the end of summer)
The Truth About Student Loan Debt
Best Social Justice Books For Teens: 30+ Great Choices
Ideas For Parents in July: 10+ Wins
Backpack Essentials for College and High School (get organized now for the upcoming school year)
Essential Tech Your Teen Needs for College
Mom and Son Book Club: 9 Books to Enjoy With or Without Your Teen
Ideas For Parents in August: 10+ Timely Wins
High School Survival Kit for Parents
What Will My Teen Need in the Dorm?
Good Study Habits Equals Good Grades
Advent Calendars for the Holidays (order now to have for December 1)
Tips for Making a Great College Care Package
Best Movies for Teens for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
Timely Tips for Parents in October
Advent Calendars for the Holidays -order now to be there before December 1
Timely Tips for Parents in November
11 Ways to Bond Over The Holidays With Teens
25 Days For a Teenage Christmas
Help Your Teen Prepare for Finals
147 Jolly Holiday Ideas to Enjoy with Your Teens
Your Teen is Turning 18, What You Need To Know!
Stressed Out Teen? Easy Ways Parents Can Help
Sleep for Teens is So Important
7 Things to Know If You Love a Teen
5 Easy Ways to Improve Communicating With Your Teen
29 Ways to Prepare For College!
Good Study Habits Equals Good Grades
How To Help Your Teen Get Scholarships
How To Keep Your Teen Safe At College
7 Best Books for Parenting Teens
65+ Great Sports Movies To Watch With Your Teen
Best Social Justice Books for Your Family
13 Great Books for Teens (and Parents)
27 Great Books For A Young Adult to Read For Success
Parenting High Schoolers -15 Favorite Books from 2021
Ways to Keep Your Child Safe at College
Travel Safety Ideas for Your Teen
Tips to Help Your Teen With Stress
How To Say No To Your Teen, You Can Do It
7 Things To Know If You Love A Teenager
Toys and Games for Teens with ADHD
Best Workout Equipment for a Dorm Room
I have been writing these posts since 2016. They are all updated at least once a year. Let me know if you have a topic that you want me to write about in the future!
Visit my Facebook page, and follow me on Pinterest and YouTube! I look forward to seeing you again! And, finally, if you feel like this post was helpful, please share it on your favorite social media platform! Thank you so much!❤️
Pin for later!
I have not written a book post in awhile, and thought it would be fun to round up my favorite books from 2021 as a way to share with you. I am always reading something, and I try to vary my choices. The following list includes fiction and non-fiction books divided for your convenience.
Have fun reading! Be sure to check out my other book posts listed at the bottom.? *This post may contain affiliate links. My full disclosure policy is here.
Pin for later!
“Wherever I am, if I’ve got that book with me, I’ve got a place I can go and be happy.” -JK Rowling
Fantasy is not usually a genre that I enjoy that much. But, this was such a great story! I was spellbound from the start -no pun intended…
Here is the description:
Where does the story of the Owens bloodline begin? With Maria Owens, in the 1600s, when she’s abandoned in a snowy field in rural England as a baby. Under the care of Hannah Owens, Maria learns about the “Nameless Arts.” Hannah recognizes that Maria has a gift and she teaches the girl all she knows. It is here that she learns her first important lesson: Always love someone who will love you back.
When Maria is abandoned by the man who has declared his love for her, she follows him to Salem, Massachusetts. Here she invokes the curse that will haunt her family. And it’s here that she learns the rules of magic and the lesson that she will carry with her for the rest of her life. Love is the only thing that matters.
“The ability to read awoke inside me some long dormant craving to be mentally alive.” -Malcolm X
This was one of my favorite books from last spring. WW2 has always been a favorite time period for me to read about, and I love all the converging story lines.
Here is the description:
New York socialite Caroline Ferriday has her hands full with her post at the French consulate and a new love on the horizon. But Caroline’s world is forever changed when Hitler’s army invades Poland in September 1939—and then sets its sights on France.
An ocean away from Caroline, Kasia Kuzmerick, a Polish teenager, senses her carefree youth disappearing as she is drawn deeper into her role as courier for the underground resistance movement. In a tense atmosphere of watchful eyes and suspecting neighbors, one false move can have dire consequences.
For the ambitious young German doctor, Herta Oberheuser, an ad for a government medical position seems her ticket out of a desolate life. Once hired, though, she finds herself trapped in a male-dominated realm of Nazi secrets and power.
The lives of these three women are set on a collision course when the unthinkable happens and Kasia is sent to Ravensbrück, the notorious Nazi concentration camp for women. Their stories cross continents—from New York to Paris, Germany, and Poland—as Caroline and Kasia strive to bring justice to those whom history has forgotten.
Fun fact is that Laura McHugh’s youngest daughter was in my preschool class as she wrote her first wonderful book! I finally had a chance to read this fourth suspenseful book -she writes this genre so well!
Here is the description:
Seventeen-year-old Sarabeth has become increasingly rebellious since her parents found God and moved their family to a remote Arkansas farmstead where she’s forced to wear long dresses, follow strict rules, and grow her hair down to her waist. She’s all but given up on escaping the farm when a masked man appears one stifling summer morning and snatches her out of the cornfield.
A week after her abduction, she’s found alongside a highway in a bloodstained dress—alive—but her family treats her like she’s tainted, and there’s little hope of finding her captor, who kept Sarabeth blindfolded in the dark the entire time, never uttering a word. One good thing arises from the horrific ordeal: a chance to leave the Ozarks and start a new life.
Five years later, Sarabeth is struggling to keep her past buried when investigator Nick Farrow calls. Convinced that her case is connected to the strikingly similar disappearance of another young girl, Farrow wants Sarabeth’s help, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get it, even if that means dragging her back to the last place she wants to go—the hills and hollers of home, to face her estranged family and all her deepest fears.
This was a great read. I started this book thinking it was something else, but ended up really enjoying it anyway. Coming of age, wrestling with personal faith, love, and friendship are all wrapped together in this wonderful story.
Here is the description:
Lucy Hansson was ready for a perfect summer with her boyfriend, working at her childhood Bible camp on the lake and spending quality time with her parents. But when her mom’s cancer reappears, Lucy falters–in her faith and in her ability to cope. When her boyfriend “pauses” their relationship and her summer job switches to a different camp–one for troubled kids–Lucy isn’t sure how much more she can handle.
Attempting to accept a new normal, Lucy slowly regains footing among her vibrant, diverse coworkers, Sundays with her mom, and a crush on a fellow counselor. But when long-hidden family secrets emerge, can Lucy set aside her problems and discover what grace really means?
This was a book that I read out loud to each of my ELA classes last year. We all enjoyed it so much, and my classes started out so much better when I read this first thing! It’s sad and funny and heartwarming.
Here is the description:
Arthur T. Owens grabbed a brick and hurled it at the trash picker. Arthur had his reasons, and the brick hit the Junk Man in the arm, not the head. But none of that matters to the judge—he is ready to send Arthur to juvie forever. Amazingly, it’s the Junk Man himself who offers an alternative: 120 hours of community service . . . working for him.
Arthur is given a rickety shopping cart and a list of the Seven Most Important Things: glass bottles, foil, cardboard, pieces of wood, lightbulbs, coffee cans, and mirrors. He can’t believe it—is he really supposed to rummage through people’s trash? But it isn’t long before Arthur realizes there’s more to the Junk Man than meets the eye, and the “trash” he’s collecting is being transformed into something more precious than anyone could imagine. . . .
This book was a great departure for me. I couldn’t put it down because I wanted to know more. Deya wants to know more, and what she finds out is surprising…
Here is the description:
Palestine, 1990. Seventeen-year-old Isra prefers reading books to entertaining the suitors her father has chosen for her. Over the course of a week, the naïve and dreamy girl finds herself quickly betrothed and married, and is soon living in Brooklyn. There Isra struggles to adapt to the expectations of her oppressive mother-in-law Fareeda and strange new husband Adam, a pressure that intensifies as she begins to have children—four daughters instead of the sons Fareeda tells Isra she must bear.
Brooklyn, 2008. Eighteen-year-old Deya, Isra’s oldest daughter, must meet with potential husbands at her grandmother Fareeda’s insistence, though her only desire is to go to college. Deya can’t help but wonder if her options would have been different had her parents survived the car crash that killed them when Deya was only eight. But her grandmother is firm on the matter: the only way to secure a worthy future for Deya is through marriage to the right man.
But fate has a will of its own, and soon Deya will find herself on an unexpected path that leads her to shocking truths about her family—knowledge that will force her to question everything she thought she knew about her parents, the past, and her own future.
This series has become a favorite of mine over the last year. I have read the first three books, and cannot wait to read some more! I recommended these to my mom, and she has read all 17!
Here is the description:
Maisie Dobbs got her start as a maid in an aristocratic London household when she was thirteen. Her employer, suffragette Lady Rowan Compton, soon became her patron, taking the remarkably bright youngster under her wing. Lady Rowan’s friend, Maurice Blanche, often retained as an investigator by the European elite, recognized Maisie’s intuitive gifts and helped her earn admission to the prestigious Girton College in Cambridge, where Maisie planned to complete her education.
The outbreak of war changed everything. Maisie trained as a nurse, then left for France to serve at the Front, where she found—and lost—an important part of herself. Ten years after the Armistice, in the spring of 1929, Maisie sets out on her own as a private investigator, one who has learned that coincidences are meaningful, and truth elusive. Her very first case involves suspected infidelity but reveals something very different.
I went back this past year and reread this old Stephen King classic. The last time I read this was 24 years ago when I was pregnant with my oldest son, and boy did I have strange dreams! This time around, I still had dreams, but not as strange or intense. I remember liking this so much, and it is a great book to reread in today’s times. A great good v. evil story…
Here is the description:
A patient escapes from a biological testing facility, unknowingly carrying a deadly weapon: a mutated strain of super-flu that will wipe out 99 percent of the world’s population within a few weeks. Those who remain are scared, bewildered, and in need of a leader.
Two emerge—Mother Abagail, the benevolent 108-year-old woman who urges them to build a peaceful community in Boulder, Colorado; and Randall Flagg, the nefarious “Dark Man,” who delights in chaos and violence.
As the dark man and the peaceful woman gather power, the survivors will have to choose between them—and ultimately decide the fate of all humanity.
I read this early on in 2021, and I remember being intrigued immediately. Again, I was on a WW2 kick! I loved all the interconnected story lines and the codes, and especially that it was women who were at the forefront of taking care of the Nazis.
Here is the description:
1940. As England prepares to fight the Nazis, three very different women answer the call to mysterious country estate Bletchley Park, where the best minds in Britain train to break German military codes. Vivacious debutante Osla is the girl who has everything—beauty, wealth, and the dashing Prince Philip of Greece sending her roses—but she burns to prove herself as more than a society girl, and puts her fluent German to use as a translator of decoded enemy secrets. Imperious self-made Mab, product of east-end London poverty, works the legendary codebreaking machines as she conceals old wounds and looks for a socially advantageous husband. Both Osla and Mab are quick to see the potential in local village spinster Beth, whose shyness conceals a brilliant facility with puzzles, and soon Beth spreads her wings as one of the Park’s few female cryptanalysts. But war, loss, and the impossible pressure of secrecy will tear the three apart.
1947. As the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip whips post-war Britain into a fever, three friends-turned-enemies are reunited by a mysterious encrypted letter–the key to which lies buried in the long-ago betrayal that destroyed their friendship and left one of them confined to an asylum. A mysterious traitor has emerged from the shadows of their Bletchley Park past, and now Osla, Mab, and Beth must resurrect their old alliance and crack one last code together. But each petal they remove from the rose code brings danger–and their true enemy–closer…
“Let’s be reasonable and add an eighth day to the week that is devoted exclusively to reading.” -Lena Dunham
I was given the wonderful opportunity to read this book before it was released this past summer. I loved this story about this family and their dog, Riley. He is everyone’s dog: silly, smart, gross, loving, and this makes the book so relatable. It’s reduced by 75% on Kindle for January 2022 as a new release! If you like dogs at all -grab this book and read it with your kids/teens -it would be a fun read aloud because if you have any pets, it will spark conversations of funny and similar memories.
I love the way Riley is a “person” in their home. That is the way it is here with our dogs! “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble” is a #1 New Release on Amazon! Get your copy today!
**I am just one of many bloggers reviewing Barking At The Moon, so check out the other awesome blogs with book reviews at the bottom of this post!
Here is the description:
When Riley comes into her family’s life, award-winning humor columnist Tracy Beckerman realizes she got a lot more than she bargained for. From tracking wet cement through the house to shredding the family’s underwear, Riley is a one-dog wrecking ball. Yet this lovable retriever also brings joy, laughter, and a renewed sense of wonder into the household.
At times hilarious and heartwarming, Barking at the Moon speaks to life’s growing pains, and to mothering children both human and furry. With Beckerman’s trademark wit and heart, she reminds us that no matter what stage of life we’re in, we can learn a lot from the dogs who teach us how to stop and enjoy the ride.
I came across Tami Matheny as I was searching for something else. I love her message, and am anxious to read more of her stuff! Here are YouTube videos I did on her book: Part 1 and Part 2.
Here is the description:
Adversity is often seen as a bad thing. Something to avoid. But to accomplish anything worthwhile adversity is necessary. It is what separates the great from the mediocre, the champions from the contenders.
The difference is in how you look at adversity. Success comes from learning to see it, think about it, and respond to it in a positive or productive way. Creating a “this is good” mindset will allow you to do this.
This is a story within a story. It is how an African folk lore transformed a college soccer team to reach heights they didn’t know they could. You will follow their journey and the lessons along the way that enable them to cultivate a new way of thinking.
This was a great book that I read for both myself, and my blog. I did a YouTube video on this, and was happy to share some of her ideas.
Procrastination is one of my faults, and I have three boys with ADD, so I am pretty sure that they get it from me… Here are great tips for both you and your teens.
Here is the description:
Procrastination is especially tough for young adults. Getting started is overwhelming, it’s hard to get motivated, not knowing how long things take messes up planning, and distractions are everywhere. We are all wired to put things off, but we can learn tools and techniques to kick this habit.
This book is a user-friendly guide to help teens get their tasks done. Simple, straightforward, and with a touch of humor, it’s packed with practical solutions and easily digestible tips to stay on top of homework, develop a sense of time, manage digital distractions, create easy-to-follow routines, and get unstuck.
In her breezy, witty style, internationally recognized academic and parenting coach Leslie Josel opens the door to a student’s view of procrastination, dives deep into what that really looks like, and offers up her Triple Ts―tips, tools and techniques―to teach students how to get stuff done…now.
Last year this was a book assigned to me for professional development. For once, I loved this assignment!
Here is the description:
Forced to take the bus to work, George meets a unique kind of bus driver and an interesting set of characters (passengers) that over the course of 2 weeks share the 10 rules for the ride of his life…and attempt to help him turn around his work and team and save his job and marriage from an almost inevitable destruction.”
In the mode of other best-selling business fables, The Energy Bus takes listeners on an enlightening and inspiring ride that reveals 10 secrets for approaching life and work with the kind of positive, forward thinking that leads to true accomplishment – at work and at home. Everyone faces challenges. And every person, organization, company, and team will have to overcome negativity and adversity to define themselves and create their success.
No one goes through life untested, and the answer to these tests is positive energy – the kind of positive energy consisting of vision, trust, optimism, enthusiasm, purpose, and spirit that defines great leaders and their teams. Drawing upon his experience and work with thousands of leaders, sales professionals, teams, nonprofit organizations, schools, and athletes, Gordon infuses this engaging story with keen insights, actionable strategies, and a big dose of positive, infectious energy.
“The best advice I ever got was that knowledge is power and to keep reading.” -David Bailey
Lamb writes a great book for parents. I know Miranda from the blogging world, and she is such a great writer. She incorporates her knowledge as a mom, a counselor, and a writer to create this short, concise guide to setting boundaries for teens.
Here is the description:
Set Boundaries for Teens. Build Character. Strengthen Your Family.Wish you could spend more time enjoying your teen and less time nagging? Feeling overwhelmed by your teenager’s disrespect and lack of responsibility?
In Responsible and Resilient Teens: 10 Secret Parenting Solutions That Work, discover how to set healthy boundaries and creative consequences in your home. Learn simple parenting solutions that hold your teen accountable in the present and also positively shape your teen’s decision making skills going forward.
Rachel has also become an online friend as well, and I appreciate her taking this tough topic and breaking it down for parents so that they can help their teens out into the real world. She has a great podcast, here is the episode where she and I had a chat about communicating with your teen –Raising Confident Teens
Here is the description:
In I Am Not Your ATM: A Practical Plan for Teaching Your Teen to Manage Money, Rachel Murphy shares the knowledge and tools to help you teach your teen. You will gain the know-how and confidence to teach your teen how to handle money even if no one taught you.
The teen years can be a great opportunity to teach your young person money skills. Instead of money being a point of contention and stress like it is for many parents and teens, you can become a team working together to help your teen build a strong foundation for the future.
Best Books for Mom and Son Book Club
Best Books for Parenting Teens
Best Social Justice Books For Teens
Best Year Round Posts for Parenting Teens and Tweens: 50+ Titles
And, a link to Amazon where I have an ever going list of my favorites for teens and adults!
1/3 – www.notasupermom.com
1/5 – www.lightheartedlife.org
1/6 –www.parentinghighschoolers.com (that’s me!)
1/8 – www.lizzielau.com
1/9 – www.cottageinthecourt.com
1/11 – www.kimscrazylife.com
1/12 – www.chiilmama.com
1/14 – www.goodgirlgoneredneck.com
1/15 – website for Jeanette Smith
1/16 – www.annebardsley.com
1/18 – www.staceygustafson.com
1/20 – www.carolcassara.com
1/22 – www.carolowens.com
1/23 – www.nerdfamily.com
1/24 – www.serenitywithglenda
1/26 – www.aboomerslifeafter50.com
1/27 – www.decodingcreativity.com
1/29 – www.themiraclechild.org
1/30 – www.biggreenpen.com
Visit my Facebook page, and follow me on Pinterest and YouTube! I look forward to seeing you again! And, finally, if you feel like this post was helpful, please share it on your favorite social media platform! Thank you so much!❤️
Pin for later!
“Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin. Beginning makes the conditions perfect.” –Alan Cohen
It’s the first day of the 2022! How is that possible?
My plans for today include watching Baylor play Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl and relaxing on my last weekend off from school. What about you?!
Did you have any time off? I have had a week so far, and I have filled it with some deep cleaning, watching movies, reading, and hanging out with my boys -not every moment perfect, but a perfect break from our regular schedules.
I have got some great new blog posts in the works, especially around Valentine’s Day! Stay tuned…
What was your favorite gift? I hope not a robe! Have you seen that SNL skit with Kristen Wiig? Mine was a box with 2 things from my boys -and they were really thoughtful things: a flippy and a new skillet!
Read on for so much more!
I have a new group on Facebook just for creating connections. The group is pretty quiet so far, but my wish is that everyone on there share things that are working in their relationship with their teens. Ideas that people can adapt and make their own. A place of positivity for encouragement.
I am in many FB groups that are very negative, but I stay there to find out questions and issues that are affecting other parents that either I haven’t or maybe I have forgotten or not thought about. That is one way I gather ideas for creating new content to write about or video.
But, I want my group to be a fun place to gather. If you haven’t checked it out, head over there now!
I have a dream scholarship –One “dreamer” in our I Have a Dream Scholarship Scholarship will receive $1,500 to help make his or her educational dream come true.
Applicants must:
Must be 14 years of age or older at time of application.| Must be a legal U.S. resident.| Must be a resident of one of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia.| This award is for U.S. students. | Due by January 31, 2022
Submit an online written response to the question:
“We want to know… what do you dream about? Whether it’s some bizarre dream you had last week, or your hopes for the future, share your dreams with us for a chance to win $1,500 for college.” (250 words or less)
•Are you looking for fun ways to get your teens outside? Here are some fun activities for outside that they can do alone or with a group with different themes.
•My friend and partner, Laura at Almost Empty Nest has just made our summit page live! If you have not joined one of our other two summits, you are in for a treat! Next Phase Parenting is a place for parents of tweens, teens, and young adults as well as parents moving or already in the empty nest years, hence the name, Next Phase Parenting!
We have 18 speakers lined up to speak on parenting teens, college and life prep, and empty nesting. Each day will have a theme, and we are super excited to get together again to help parents at this stage in their lives! Our summit is January 24-27 with a live kickoff on Facebook the evening of the 23rd. Sign up here?
•I just read The Names They Gave Us -by Blake -so good! It’s about a teenage girl who has a predictable summer planned, but events occur that throw her for a loop. What she thinks will be a terrible summer ends up being just what she needs, and so much more than she expects.
•What I am now reading, Atomic Habits -by Clear -Here is the description: full of great ideas, helpful advice and brilliant strategies to make changing your life and work habits easy, doable and downright pleasant that it can be difficult to sort it all out and make an actionable plan. It might even cause a case of overload / overwhelm which can inhibit action. I am so easily overwhelmed by everything I need to do, I cannot wait to get this read!
•Have you heard of hygge? Here are some great ways to add this into your winter…
•Here is great news about monarch butterflies!
•Some thought-provoking ideas for this next year… What is the difference between wisdom, knowledge and insight? I hope that we all learn that…the truest form of knowing is in acquiring all three, and understanding how they each enhance the quality and experience of life.
I recently saw a conversation in a group on Facebook about the fact that our teens don’t have phone skills, and little wonder since phones as we know them have changed so much over the past 20 years. Here is a video I made a while back addressing this issue, and what we can do to help our teens!
•Are you choosing a word or phrase for the new year? I cannot decide. I usually do a word, but honestly, I have no idea what my word even was. I am going to give this some more thought. I would love some ideas about what you have chosen!
•Need to start some conversations about college and career planning? It’s never to early or too late!
Thanks so much for being a part of my life, I am such a fan of parents of teens -we need to stick together!
Here’s to a great 2022!
❤️
Mel