Intentional parenting

Tag: hope

  • The Esther Fast: A 3-Day Global Call for Mothers to Pray, Fast, and Rise (March 23–25, 2026)

    In a world filled with uncertainty, pressure, and rapid change, one question continues to echo across generations:

    “Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14

    At Intentional Parenting, we believe that this is not just a question for Esther it is a call to mothers today.

    From March 23–25, 2026, we are inviting mothers across the globe to join us for The Esther Fast—a powerful 3-day journey of prayer, fasting, and spiritual alignment for our children, families, and the next generation. This will happen via Whatsapp, you can join the community here

    Why Mothers Need to Rise in This Season?

    We are living in a complex global moment shaped by:

    Economic instability affecting households.

    Political uncertainty across nations. Cultural identity challenges for children.

    The growing influence of digital spaces on young minds.

    Migration and diaspora realities impacting family life.

    As mothers, we are not just raising children—we are raising a generation in the middle of all of this.

    And just like Esther we have been positioned for such a time as this.

    What Is The Esther Fast?

    The Esther Fast is inspired by Esther 4:16, where Esther calls for a fast before stepping into a moment that would change the destiny of her people.

    This is more than a fast from food—it is a time of:

    -Spiritual consecration

    -Intentional prayer for our children.

    – Seeking wisdom as mothers.

    – Standing in the gap for our families and communities.

    Our Journey Through the Book of Esther

    Here at Intentional Parenting, in our 6am prayers, we have been reading and praying through the Book of Esther together as a community since February.

    Through this devotional journey, we have reflected on:

    🙏🏽Courage in uncertain environments

    🙏🏽Wisdom in navigating complex systems

    🙏🏽The power of influence and timing

    🙏🏽The importance of intercession

    We have seen how God can use ordinary women in extraordinary moments to shape history.

    And now, we are stepping into that truth through this fast.

    Inspired by the courage of Esther, the 3-day fast is a call for mothers to rise in prayer, intercession, and spiritual authority for their children, families, and this generation.

    “Go, gather together all the Jews… and fast for me… I will go to the king…” – Esther 4:16

    ✨ PURPOSE OF THE FAST

    This is not just about abstaining from food.

    It is about:

    -Spiritual alignment.

    -Interceding for your children’s future.

    -Seeking wisdom in uncertain times.

    – Standing in the gap for your family and community.

    ⚠️ HOW TO FAST (GUIDELINES)

    Choose what is appropriate for your health and capacity:

    Option 1: 6am–4pm fast (water allowed)

    Option 2: Partial fast, may be skip just one meal eg breakfast finish fasting at 1 or 2pm, or one meal a day / Daniel-style

    Option 3: Social/media fast (reduce noise, increase focus)

    👉 Key principle: Replace what you remove with prayer, Word, and reflection.

    🕊️ POSTURE FOR THE 3 DAYS

    Be intentional (set prayer times)

    Be honest (bring your fears and burdens to God)

    Be expectant (God still responds to intercession)

    📌Create a quiet space daily.

    The goal is simple:

    👉 Create space for God to speak and move.

    Why This Fast Matters Now More Than Ever?

    In the story of Esther silence was not an option.

    Her courage changed the destiny of a generation.

    Today, mothers are facing different battles—but the calling remains the same.

    We are called to:

    🙏🏽Pray intentionally

    ✏️Lead courageously

    🌇Build legacy deliberately

    Join Mothers Around the World 🌏

    This is a global call.

    Whether you are in the UK, Africa, the US, or anywhere across the world—you are invited. You can join the praying community via this link

    Let us come together as mothers to:

    ✨ Pray for our children

    ✨ Stand in the gap

    ✨ Build legacy through faith

    Join the Esther Fast Community

    👉 Join us here

    Corporate prayer meeting

    We hope that you will spend the day in prayer and meditation. We will then meet corporately for corporate prayer at 9pm GMT via zoom. We ordinarily meet at 6am GMT Mondays- Fridays, and we are continuing with the book of Esther.

    9pm during this 3day fast is a time of intense intercession as we cry out for God’s perfect will to be established in our lives. Details of joining the prayer watch will be shared via this Whatsapp link

    Biblical prayer watches

    Final Encouragement

    You may not feel like Esther.

    You may feel tired, uncertain, or stretched.

    But your prayers matter.

    Your voice matters.

    Your motherhood matters.

    And just like Esther

    You may have been positioned

    for such a time as this.

    🔥 DAY 1: CONSECRATION & SURRENDER

    “Positioned Before Purpose”

    📖 Key Scripture:

    Esther 4:14

    Romans 12:1

    Focus:

    Before Esther spoke publicly, she prepared privately.

    Day 1 is about:

    Surrendering control

    Laying down fear, anxiety, and pressure.

    Realigning your heart as a mother and leader.

    Prayer Points:

    Lord, align my heart with Your will for my children. Purify my motives as a mother and leader.Help me release fear about the future. Strengthen my spiritual sensitivity

    🙏 Reflection:

    Where am I operating from fear instead of faith?

    🌍 DAY 2: INTERCESSION FOR OUR CHILDREN & GENERATION

    “Standing in the Gap”

    📖 Key Scripture:

    Esther 4:16

    Ezekiel 22:30

    Focus:

    Like Esther, we stand in the gap—not just for ourselves, but for others.

    This includes today’s global realities:

    Economic instability affecting families. Wars and conflicts shaping children’s futures. Cultural identity confusion. Digital exposure and mental health challenges.Migration and diaspora pressures

    Prayer Points:

    Cover your children spiritually (identity, purpose, protection).

    Pray for their future in an unstable world. Intercede for schools, communities, and nations.

    Pray for peace and justice in global conflicts.

    Ask God to raise children who will stand for truth.

    🙏 Declaration:

    “My children will not be lost in this generation. They will rise with purpose, clarity, and courage.”

    👑 DAY 3: COURAGE, WISDOM & ACTION

    “For Such a Time as This”

    📖 Key Scripture:

    Esther 4:16

    James 1:5

    Focus:

    Esther didn’t just pray—she acted.

    Day 3 is about:

    Courage to speak and lead.

    Wisdom in parenting decisions.

    Boldness in today’s socio-political climate.

    Prayer Points:

    Lord, give me courage to lead my family intentionally. Grant me wisdom in raising children in this culture. Help me use my voice for truth and justice. Show me where I need to take action.

    🙏 Declaration:

    “I am called, equipped, and positioned for such a time as this.”

    💡 PRACTICAL TIPS FOR MOTHERS

    🔑Involve your children (age-appropriate prayer moments)

    📝Journal what God reveals each day.

    🎵 Play worship music to stay spiritually focused.

    🤝Join with another mother for accountability.

    Break your fast with gratitude and prayer

    🌸 CLOSING PRAYER

    Heavenly Father,

    Like Esther, we choose courage over fear. In a time of uncertainty, raise us as mothers who will pray, speak, and lead with wisdom. Cover our children. Stabilise our homes.Give us discernment in a complex world. May our lives reflect Your purpose, and may our children become a generation that stands for truth.

    For such a time as this…

    Amen

    📣Join the Whatsapp community where we commune, share prayer points. devotion, zoom link and more.

    After 3 days of prayer and fasting, join us for the Esther Banquet—a beautiful evening of gratitude, testimonies, and community for mothers. More details about the banquet will be shared in the group.

  • February and March is an Esther Season: An Invitation to Pray as an Intentional Mother

    February often arrives quietly, yet it carries a weight many mothers feel deeply.

    The year has begun, expectations are high, and for many families, the realities of parenting in uncertain economic, social, and global times are settling in. It is in moments like these that faith is not just comforting — it becomes essential.

    This February and March we are inviting mothers to journey through the Book of Esther in prayer — not as a history lesson, but as a guide for intentional, faith-led motherhood for such a time as this.

    Why the Book of Esther Matters for Mothers Today?

    The story of Esther unfolds during a time of political tension, uncertainty, and real threat. She did not live in ease or predictability — yet God positioned her with purpose.

    Esther teaches us that:

    ☘️Preparation often happens in hidden seasons.

    🌿Courage is required when clarity is incomplete.

    🌱Faith sometimes looks like showing up anyway.

    For mothers today, this resonates deeply.

    We are raising children amid:

    -Economic pressure and rising costs.

    -Constant exposure to distressing news.

    – Cultural shifts that challenge values and identity.

    Like Esther, many mothers are quietly asking:

    How do I remain steady, faithful, and intentional in times like these?

    Parenting in Uncertain Times Requires Anchoring, Not Alarm.

    Intentional parenting is not about having all the answers.

    It is about being anchored — emotionally, spiritually, and relationally.

    When mothers pray, reflect, and gather in community:

    ✨Anxiety is replaced with discernment.

    ⭐️Fear gives way to wisdom.

    🌟 Parenting becomes purposeful rather than reactive.

    The Esther story reminds us that God works through women who are willing to pause, pray, and respond with courage — even when the outcome is unknown.

    Introducing the Esther Prayer Journey.

    Throughout February and March, Intentional Parenting is hosting a focused prayer journey for mothers, rooted in the Book of Esther.

    This prayer journey is designed to support mothers who want to:

    1.Begin their days grounded in prayer.

    2.Reflect on faith through the lens of motherhood.

    3.Connect with other women walking similar paths.

    4.Navigate this season with courage and intention

    What the Prayers Include:

    👸🏾Esther-inspired prayer themes

    📖Gentle daily prayer prompts

    🧘🏾‍♀️Community connection through the 6AM Collective Space to reflect, not perform. This whatsapp community is where the true growth happens!

    This is not about perfection. It is about presence.

    A Prayer Guide for the Journey: Called, Covered & Courageous™️

    To support this season of prayer, we have created a mini companion devotional.

    Called, Covered & Courageous™️: A mini Esther Devotional for Intentional Mothers.

    This digital devotional is designed to be used:

    🙏🏽Alongside the 6am prayers.

    🛐During quiet morning moments.

    🤔 As a reflective guide throughout the month.

    Inside the devotional, mothers will find:

    👑Short daily readings from Esther

    🙏🏽Prayers rooted in faith and courage

    😇Reflection prompts through an intentional parenting lens.

    💕Encouragement for mothers navigating uncertainty.

    Many mothers will be using this devotional as their February prayer guide, allowing Scripture and reflection to shape their parenting and perspective throughout the month.

    ➡️ The mini devotional is available to purchase via this link

    You Don’t Have to Walk This Season Alone!

    One of the most powerful lessons from Esther is that she did not act in isolation. She prayed, fasted, and stood supported by her community.

    Motherhood was never meant to be a solo journey.

    If this season feels uncertain,

    If you are carrying quiet questions…

    If you long to parent with faith rather than fear,

    If you are longing for a village,

    If you are equally happy and exited,

    You are invited.

    How to Join the Esther Prayers.

    Joining is simple:

    🌅 Connect with the 6AM Whtasapp community.

    📘 Use the Called, Covered & Courageous devotional as your prayer guide

    👉 Join the prayers via this link

    👉 Purchase the devotional to support your journey here

    For Such a Time as This.

    Esther’s story reminds us that God places women intentionally — within families, communities, and generations — to nurture courage, faith, and hope.

    This is not just another season.

    It is an invitation.

    📌To pray.

    📍To prepare.

    🔑To parent intentionally.

    For such a time as this.

  • Praying mothers

    Praying for yourself as a mother can be a profound way to seek God’s guidance, strength, and wisdom. Pray for your friends too that they thrive in their mothering journey. Pray that they will be a source of support, encouragement, companionship and more.

    Here are some specific prayers, each accompanied by relevant Bible verses to inspire and guide you:

    1. For Wisdom and Guidance:
    • Prayer: Heavenly Father, I ask for Your wisdom to raise my children according to Your will. Guide my decisions and actions as I nurture and teach them.
    • Verse: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).
    • 2-For Patience and Understanding:
    • Prayer: Lord, grant me patience and understanding as I face the challenges of motherhood. Help me to respond with love and kindness in every situation.
    • Verse: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2).

    3-For Strength and Endurance:

    • Prayer: Father, give me the strength to meet the demands of each day. When I am weary, renew my energy and spirit.
    • Verse: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).

    4-For Peace and Calm:

    • Prayer: Lord, fill my heart with Your peace. Calm my anxieties and worries, and help me to trust in Your perfect plan for my family.
    • Verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

    5-For Love and Compassion:

    • Prayer: Jesus, help me to love my children with the unconditional love that You have shown me. Let compassion and empathy guide my interactions with them.
    • Verse: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8).

    6-For Protection and Safety:

    • Prayer: Lord, I pray for Your protection over my children. Keep them safe from harm and guide them in Your ways.
    • Verse: “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (Psalm 121:8).

    7-For Faith and Spiritual Growth:

    • Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to grow in my faith and to be a spiritual example for my children. Guide me in teaching them Your truths.
    • Verse: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

    8-For Joy and Gratitude:

    • Prayer: Lord, fill my heart with joy and gratitude for the blessing of motherhood. Help me to cherish each moment with my children.
    • Verse: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Psalm 126:3).

    By incorporating these prayers and verses into your daily routine, you can seek God’s guidance and strength in your journey as a mother, trusting in His presence and provision for you and your family.

    I hope you find these helpful. Let me know in comments.

    For all things intentiona parenting, check out other blog posts

    Why not join our growing community? Check out our socials for an opportunity to see us in action 😍, click here

    Every blessing.

    Fadzai 🌱

  • Five tips for demonstrating love to your children as a Christian parent:

    1. Spend Quality Time Together:
    • Tip: Dedicate undivided attention to your children by engaging in activities they enjoy and creating meaningful memories together.
    • Example: Have regular family devotionals, play games, go on nature walks, or simply listen to them share about their day.

    2-Model Christlike Behavior:

    • Tip: Exhibit the qualities of Jesus in your daily interactions with your children, including patience, kindness, humility, and forgiveness.
    • Example: Apologize when you make a mistake, show patience during stressful times, and speak kindly and respectfully.

    3-Teach and Live Out Biblical Principles:

    • Tip: Incorporate biblical teachings into your family life and make Scripture a central part of your home.
    • Example: Read Bible stories together, pray as a family, and discuss how biblical principles can be applied in everyday situations. Show love, affection, compassion and forgiveness. As Christian parents we are called to demonstrate the fruit of the spirit, read Galatians 5:22

    4-Encourage and Affirm:

    • Tip: Regularly encourage and affirm your children, highlighting their strengths and expressing confidence in their abilities.
    • Example: Praise their efforts in school, sports, or hobbies, and affirm their unique qualities and God-given talents. You can look at our affirmations challenge here
    • 5- Show Unconditional Love and Grace:
    • Tip: Demonstrate unconditional love and grace, mirroring God’s love for us, by loving your children without conditions or expectations.
    • Example: Offer forgiveness freely, reassure them of your love even when they make mistakes, and support them through their challenges without judgment. Love for children is spelt as TIME. Spend quality time with your children away from distractions. Create family traditions and memories.

    What else can you add to this? Would love to hear from you.

    Remain intentional

    Yours

    Fadzai x

  • Hello August

    August represents the peak of summer, warmth, fun and long summer days.

    Here in the UK it’s right at the peak of school summer break. A time to make memories, rest and bond with children. It can also be a very stressful time to sort childcare. I pray that you have an awesome summer.

    Let us pray:

    Heavenly Father,

    We come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the gift of this summer season. As we enter the month of August, we ask for Your blessings and guidance in all our activities and endeavors.

    Lord, Your Word says, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you” (Numbers 6:24-25). We pray that Your blessing and protection surround our family throughout this month. Keep us safe in our travels, adventures, and daily activities.

    As we enjoy the beauty of summer, we remember Your creation and give thanks. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1). Help us to appreciate the wonders of nature and spend quality time together, making lasting memories.

    Lord, we seek Your wisdom in our decisions and plans. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5). Grant us discernment to make choices that honor You and bring joy to our family.

    May our home be filled with love, peace, and harmony. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). Help us to support and encourage one another, growing closer as a family.

    We pray for opportunities to rest and rejuvenate. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Let this summer be a time of refreshment for our bodies, minds, and spirits.

    Father, we also ask for Your provision and care. “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Meet our needs and bless us with Your abundance, so we may share with others and be a light in our community.

    Thank You, Lord, for Your unending love and faithfulness. We place this month of August into Your hands, trusting in Your perfect plan for our family.

    As we spend together as families, grant us the grace to make memories that last a lifetime.

    In Jesus’ name, we pray,

    Amen.

    Remain blessed

    Yours,

    Fadzai

  • Dear son/ daughter in law

    I am praying for you. Yes I know it will be a while before we meet you. However I am excited and expectant at the prospect of you joining our family. I also want you to know that I am doing the ground work in your future spouse. I am praying and having lots of introspective conversations.

    It is my prayer that you both thrive in this. Below is my prayer for you. I will be praying this over you now and always.

    Lord I thank you for my future son/ daughter in law.

    I come before You today with a heart full of hope and trust in Your perfect plans. I lift up in prayer the future spouse of my child. I ask for Your guidance and blessing upon their life even now, as they journey towards the time when they will meet and join our family.

    Lord, I pray for their character:

    “Create in them a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within them” (Psalm 51:10). May they grow in integrity, kindness, and love, reflecting Your nature in all they do.

    Guide their steps, Lord

    “I ask that they trust in You with all your heart and lean not on their own understanding; in all thier ways submit to You, and You will make their paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Direct their choices and lead them on a path of righteousness.

    Bless their relationships:

    “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). Surround them with friendships that encourage and uplift, and help them to grow in love and understanding.

    Strengthen their faith:

    “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15). Draw them close to You, that their faith may be firm and their trust in You unshakeable.

    Prepare their hearts for marriage:

    “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). Teach them the true meaning of love and equip them with the qualities that will make them a wonderful spouse.

    Grant them wisdom and discernment:

    “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5). Help them to make wise decisions that honor You and bless their future marriage.

    Thank You, Lord, for hearing my prayer. I trust in Your timing and Your plans, and I look forward to the day when we will welcome this special person into our family.

    In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    If you have prayed or are praying, do share in comment section below. I want to join my faith with your regarding the future of our children.

    God bless you.

  • Men’s mental health week

    What can we do as mothers to support our son’s mental well being?

    Maintaining good mental health is essential for overall well-being. Here are seven tips for that mothers can role model to their sons to support and improve their mental health:

    1. Open Up About Your Feelings:
    • Talking about your feelings isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a way to take charge of your well-being. Whether it’s with friends, family, or a therapist, sharing your thoughts and emotions can relieve stress and provide new perspectives.

    2.Stay Active:

    • Regular physical activity boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves overall mental health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, running, or team sports can be particularly beneficial.

    3.Maintain a Healthy Diet:

    • Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can positively impact your mood and energy levels. Avoid excessive sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.

    4.Build Strong Relationships:

    • Investing time in building and maintaining relationships can provide a valuable support network. Social connections are crucial for emotional support and can help combat feelings of isolation. You can join our facebook community here

    5.Set Realistic Goals:

    • Setting achievable goals provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate your progress along the way.
    • 6.Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation:
    • Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and increase your ability to stay present in the moment. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.

    7.Seek Professional Help When Needed:

    • If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can provide strategies and support to navigate difficult times.

    Prioritizing mental health can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Remember, it’s important to address mental health proactively, just as you would physical health.

  • Fruit of the Spirit

    At intentional parenting we run a 6am club where we share the WORD and encourage one another to walk in its TRUTH, demonstrating the love of God to those near and dear to us. One of the ways we do this is through studying the books of the Bible. This October, November and December we are in the book of Colossians.

    We are continuing reading and praying through the book of colossians. As Christian parents we are encouraged to live a life that honours God, in our conduct and actions with our children.


    Below is an inventory I have drafted taken from the fruits of the spirit scripture in Galatians 5:22. These fruits demonstrate to us as Christian parents that we are in union with the Spirit.

    I am inviting you to take stock/ inventory. Of these fruits which ones are you strong in? Which ones do you need to develop some stamina?

    You may find that there are seasons and moments when you are able to demonstrate these. Reflect on those seasons, what is happening? Why do you think you are able to be kind, patient and loving to your children sometimes and struggle in others? Jot these down under notes section.

    Below are tips/ways to develop and cultivate these qualities in your life:

    1. Prayer and Reflection: Regularly pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in developing these virtues. Reflect on your actions and attitudes in light of the fruit of the Spirit. Have someone hold you accountable to your growth.
    2. Study Scripture: Delve into the Bible to understand the teachings and examples that embody the fruit of the Spirit. Seek wisdom from scripture to apply these principles in your daily life. The Intentional Parenting monthly bible study through the 6am club will help you with this. You can join the whatsapp group via this link
    3. Embrace Love: Actively practice love by showing kindness, forgiveness, and empathy toward others especially your children. Love is foundational to the other fruits of the Spirit. Demonstrate this with your children. Let the sisterhood of faith hold you accountable in walking in love. Love compels us to look out for each other in prayer, sharing of tips/ knowledge and ideas. Join our facebook community via think facebook page
    4. Cultivate Joy: Focus on gratitude and find joy in your relationship with God. Choose to rejoice in both good and challenging circumstances, trusting in God’s plan. The gratitude jar is also a wonderful concept. Have you tried it before?
    5. Pursue Peace: Strive to be a peacemaker in your relationships with your children. Seek resolution rather than conflict and trust God’s peace to guide your decisions. Apologise to your children when you have gotten things wrong.
    6. Exercise Patience: Develop patience by understanding that God’s timing may differ from your own. Exercise restraint in difficult situations and trust God’s plan to unfold.
    7. Practice Kindness and Goodness: Actively look for opportunities to be kind and do good to others. Let your actions reflect the kindness and goodness that God has shown you. Extend this to your children. Our whatsapp and networking community offers opportunity to interact and grow with other mothers, giving you a safe space to grow.
    8. Be Faithful: Demonstrate faithfulness by staying committed to your relationship with God, your promises, and your responsibilities. Trust in God’s faithfulness as your example. I cannot over emphasise this. There is such a rise in social isolation in our generation as people develop mis-trusting relationships. As parents of faith, loving and fellowshipping with other believers is highly commended. We believe and strive to do that in our pursuit of intentionalparenting.Why don’t you join us at the next networking event. Join our Facebook page to kept up to date
    9. Cultivate Gentleness: Approach others with gentleness and humility. Avoid harsh judgment and strive to understand different perspectives.
    10. Exercise Self-Control: Practice self-discipline in your thoughts, actions, and emotions. Seek the Holy Spirit’s help to overcome temptations and cultivate self-control.

    Remember that developing the fruit of the Spirit is a lifelong process. Continually seek God’s guidance and rely on His strength to grow in these virtues, knowing that it’s through a relationship with Him that these qualities can flourish in your life.

    Remain intentional 🌱

  • Day 12 Affirmations challenge

    In todays challenge we are reminding our children that ‘You mean a lot to our family’. It’s important these words are meaningful and substantiated by actions. Would your children agree that they feel special and mean a lot? What are the things and actions that demonstrate that?

    Below are tips that you can apply to demonstrate to your child that s/he is important.

    1. Active Listening: Pay full attention when your child speaks. Show that their thoughts and feelings matter by actively engaging in conversations. Make an effort not to use the phone or screens.
    2. Quality Time: Dedicate focused, quality time to spend with your child regularly. This reinforces the importance of your relationship in their life. This could be dinner time, school run time. Normalise having connecting time with no distractions. Some parents enjoy having 1:1 dates and it does not have to be expensive.. coffee dates, etc
    3. Celebrating Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements, whether big or small. This reinforces their value and accomplishments. You can cook their favourite meal if they have been helpful in the week. Be clear what you are celebrating and refrain from celebrating academic achievement ONLY. Celebrate other virtues such as being kind, helpful, thoughtful etc.
    4. Personalized Attention: Provide individualized attention, addressing their unique needs and interests. This demonstrates that you understand and appreciate their individuality. Spend 1:1 time with your child doing the things they love.
    5. Express Affection: Regularly express affection through hugs, kisses, and verbal affirmations. Physical and verbal expressions of love emphasize their importance to you. You may not be comfortable with this if you did not grow up doing this, I would encourage you to lean onto your discomfort. You can start by hugging your child on specific times, eg when they leave home for school, when they come home, when you meet after a period of separation. You then build it up by cuddling them when on the couch together watching tv and so forth. Hugs and physical touch are good for us, they lower heart rate and blood pressure.
    6. Attend Events: Attend your child’s school events, performances, and activities. Your presence at these events communicates your active involvement and support. Negotiate with your employer so that you can attend key events and if you cannot, explain to your child in a way that they understand.
    7. Encourage Communication: Create an open and encouraging environment for your child to share their thoughts and concerns. Make it clear that their voice is heard and respected.
    8. Prioritise Safety: Ensuring your child’s safety is a tangible way of demonstrating their importance. Establishing a secure environment fosters trust and a sense of significance.
    9. Routine Check-Ins: Regularly check in with your child about their day, experiences, and feelings. It shows that you are genuinely interested in their well-being. Again the kitchen/ dining table is key for these discussions. For working parents, you can schedule a face time or video/ phone call to check on.
    10. Involve Them in Decision-Making: Include your child in age-appropriate decision-making processes. It empowers them and emphasizes that their input matters.
    11. Celebrate Special Days: Make a big deal out of their birthdays and other special occasions. Creating memorable experiences on these days reinforces their significance in your life.
    12. Create Traditions: Establish family traditions that involve your child. These can be simple routines or special activities that contribute to a sense of belonging.
    13. Display Their Artwork: Proudly showcase your child’s artwork or creations. This demonstrates that their efforts and creativity are valued. Let them know how proud you are of their creativity.
    14. Share Stories: Share stories about their childhood or family history. It fosters a sense of identity and importance in the family narrative. How about a family tree event. Talk about your own childhood. What did you enjoy the most? Who were the important people in your life . Why did you migrate?
    15. Encourage Individual Goals: Support and encourage your child in pursuing their personal goals and interests. It communicates that you believe in their potential.
    16. Celebrate Uniqueness: Embrace and celebrate the unique qualities and talents of your child. This reinforces that they are valued for who they are.
    17. Be Reliable: Be a reliable and consistent presence in your child’s life. Dependability creates a sense of security and importance.
    18. Apologize When Necessary: Acknowledge and apologize if you make a mistake. This teaches your child that their feelings and perspectives are respected.
    19. Listen Without Judgment: Create a non-judgmental space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of criticism.
    20. Offer Encouragement: Provide regular words of encouragement. Positive reinforcement reinforces their self-worth and importance. The affirmations challenge is key here to support those. More details on this

    Remember, it’s the combination of these actions that truly conveys to your child that they are cherished and important in your life.

    For more information, on upcoming masterclass and vision board workshop, do join the facebook page to be kept up to date.

    For parenting support, contact Fadzai via this link

    Remain intentional 🌱

  • You are enough

    When you’re feeling like you’re not enough, it’s important to practice self-compassion and employ strategies that help build your self-worth. Here are some strategies you can try:

    1. Practice self-care: Take time for activities that make you feel good, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
    2. Focus on your strengths: Remind yourself of your accomplishments and the unique qualities that make you who you are.
    3. Set realistic goals: Break down big tasks into smaller, achievable steps, and celebrate each milestone you reach along the way.
    4. Surround yourself with supportive people: Spend time with those who appreciate and value you for who you are, and who encourage your personal growth. We have an intentional parenting whatsapp group or facebook you can join here
    5. Challenge negative thoughts: Replace self-doubt with positive affirmations and remind yourself that everyone has moments of self-doubt.
    6. Help others: Volunteering or supporting others in need can help shift your focus away from self-doubt and boost your sense of purpose.
    7. Seek professional help if needed: Consider speaking with a therapist, parenting coach or counselor who can provide guidance and support for improving your self-esteem and self-worth.

    Remember, building self-worth is a gradual process, so be patient and kind to yourself as you work through these strategies.

    If you want to discuss some of this further with Fadzai, do contact via this link

    Remember You are enough!