Intentional parenting

Tag: preparation

  • 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.

  • Parenting support and services

    Support for Parents Who Want Calm, Confidence and Connection.

    Parenting is one of the most important roles we hold — yet many parents are left navigating it alone, unsure whether they’re doing “enough” or responding in the right way.

    Intentional Parenting was created to change that.

    I’m Fadzai, a parenting consultant, safeguarding lead and community builder. Through Intentional Parenting, I support parents who want to raise emotionally secure, resilient children while building calm, connected family life.

    This space is for parents who are not looking for perfection — but for clarity, confidence and practical support that fits real life.

    What Is Intentional Parenting?

    Intentional parenting is about making thoughtful choices, even in the middle of busy, messy family life.

    It’s about:

    Understanding behaviour rather than reacting to it. Strengthening communication and emotional connection. Parenting in line with your values, not pressure or fear. Creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive.

    At Intentional Parenting, support is compassionate, practical and grounded in real-world parenting challenges.

    How I Support Parents

    My work focuses on four key areas of parenting support:

    🌿 Emotional Wellbeing & Behaviour

    Helping parents understand emotions, manage challenging behaviour and reduce overwhelm at home.

    🗣 Communication & Connection

    Supporting stronger relationships through calm communication, boundaries and repair after conflict.

    🧭 Intentional Parenting & Family Life

    Helping parents move from reactive parenting to intentional routines, rhythms and values-led family life.

    🛡 Safeguarding & Family Safety

    Supporting parents to confidently protect their children’s wellbeing through everyday safeguarding and early support.

    These services are offered through 1:1 parenting coaching, group cohorts, community spaces and workshops.

    A Different Kind of Parenting Support.

    Intentional Parenting is not about quick fixes or one-size-fits-all advice.

    It is about:

    Walking alongside parents. Creating space for reflection and growth. Offering tools that work in everyday family life. Supporting parents before challenges become crises.

    Parents come for support at all stages — whether navigating early childhood, school transitions, adolescence, or simply wanting to parent with more intention.

    Join the Intentional Parenting Community

    Alongside coaching and services, Fadzai also offers community-based support through spaces such as The 6AM Collective — a reflective parenting community offering connection, prayer, learning cohorts and shared growth.

    You’re welcome to engage at your own pace, in a way that supports your family.

    Start Here

    If you’re ready to explore parenting support that feels grounded, respectful and practical, you’re in the right place.

    👉 Explore parenting coaching : here

    👉 Join the community :Whatsapp

    👉 Read the latest blog posts on this platform

    You don’t have to do parenting alone — and you don’t have to do it perfectly.

  • Safeguarding your children as a parent

    Understanding Safeguarding

    Safeguarding refers to the measures taken to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm. It involves promoting their welfare, ensuring they grow up in a safe environment, and taking action when there are concerns about their safety.

    Our founder and director Fadzai is a safeguarding consultant with extensive experience working at senior level in health and social care covering both public and private sector organisations. Full detail on her linkdn

    Key Safeguarding Responsibilities for Parents

    1. Recognising Signs of Abuse and Neglect

    Parents should be aware of potential signs of harm, which can include:

    • Physical abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures.

    • Emotional abuse: Low self-esteem, withdrawal, or fearfulness.

    • Sexual abuse: Inappropriate sexual knowledge, fear of a certain person, or secrecy. This includes sexting, where young people send inappropriate images to each other.

    • Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or lack of supervision, medical neglect.

    If you suspect abuse, contact your local safeguarding team, GP, school, or social services. You can also call the NSPCC (0808 800 5000) or Childline (0800 1111) for guidance.

    2. Online Safety Measures

    With increasing screen time, safeguarding children online is essential:

    • Use parental controls on devices and apps.

    • Monitor social media activity and set boundaries.

    • Teach children about online dangers, including cyberbullying and grooming.

    • Encourage open discussions so they feel safe reporting concerns.

    3. Supervision and Safe Environments

    • Always know your child’s whereabouts and who they are with.

    • Ensure they have a trusted adult to confide in.

    • Teach them about “stranger danger” while balancing the need to be polite.

    • Ensure babysitters, nannies, or carers are DBS-checked and reputable.

    4. Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

    Children’s mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Look out for:

    • Sudden changes in mood or behaviour.

    • Anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from activities.

    • Self-harm or talk of hopelessness.

    Encourage open conversations and seek professional support through your GP, school counsellors, CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), or charities like YoungMinds.

    5. Health and Medical Safeguarding

    • Keep up with childhood immunisations.

    • Store medications safely out of children’s reach.

    • Teach basic first aid and when to call 999 in emergencies.

    • Encourage a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and exercise.

    6. Safeguarding in Schools and Activities

    • Ensure schools have strong safeguarding policies and designated safeguarding leads (DSLs).

    • Check that clubs, sports teams, and extracurricular activities follow child protection policies.

    • Encourage children to report bullying or any uncomfortable experiences.

    What to Do If You Have Concerns

    If you suspect a child is at risk, take immediate action:

    1. Report concerns to the school’s DSL, GP, or local safeguarding team.

    2. Contact social services or the police (101 for non-emergency, 999 for urgent danger).

    3. Use national helplines like NSPCC, Barnardo’s, or the Local Safeguarding Children Partnerships (LSCPs)

    Final Thoughts

    Safeguarding is a shared responsibility among parents, caregivers, professionals, and the wider community. By staying informed, creating open conversations, and knowing where to seek help, you can play a vital role in keeping your child safe and supported.

    For further advice, visit:

    • NSPCC: www.nspcc.org.uk

    • Childline: www.childline.org.uk

    • UK Government Safeguarding Guidance: www.gov.uk

    If you need specific advice, advocacy, safeguarding concerns or challenges, feel free to ask. Get in touch with Fadzai here

    Remain intentional

    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

  • Praying for our sons and sons in law

    power of praying mum

    Praying for your son/ son in law is a meaningful practice rooted in biblical principles and examples. Here are seven reasons why it is important:

    1. For Wisdom and Guidance:
    • Example: King Solomon asked God for wisdom to lead his people, and God granted his request (1 Kings 3:9-12). Praying for your sons to receive wisdom and guidance helps them make godly decisions throughout their lives.
    • 2-Protection:
    • Example: Psalm 91 is a powerful prayer for protection, where the psalmist speaks of God’s protection over those who trust in Him (Psalm 91:1-2, 9-11). Praying for your sons’ protection is essential for their physical, emotional, and spiritual safety.

    3-For Strength and Courage:

    • Example: Joshua was encouraged by God to be strong and courageous as he led the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:9). Praying for your sons to have strength and courage enables them to face challenges and overcome obstacles with faith.

    4-For Faith and Spiritual Growth:

    • Example: Timothy’s faith was nurtured by his mother and grandmother, and Paul commended their influence on him (2 Timothy 1:5). Praying for your sons’ faith and spiritual growth ensures they develop a strong, personal relationship with God.

    5-For Character and Integrity:

    • Example: Daniel maintained his integrity and faithfulness to God even in a foreign land and under pressure (Daniel 6:4-5, 10). Praying for your sons’ character and integrity helps them to be honest, trustworthy, and morally upright.

    6-For God’s Favor and Success:

    • Example: Joseph found favor with God and man, leading to success even in difficult circumstances (Genesis 39:2-4, 21-23). Praying for God’s favor on your sons can open doors of opportunity and bless their endeavors.

    7-For Their Future and Purpose:

    • Example: Jeremiah 29:11 speaks of God’s plans for a hopeful future. Praying for your sons’ future and purpose aligns them with God’s will and helps them fulfill their God-given destinies.

    Each of these reasons highlights the importance of seeking God’s intervention and blessings in various aspects of your sons’ lives, grounding them in biblical truth and spiritual strength.

    Look forward to you joining us on this journey.

    Here is to standing in the gap for our sons

    Details to join are via this link

    Love and blessings

    Fadzi xx

  • 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 🌱

  • Mind the brain

    Parenting for purpose

    @bnparents

    The key to learning about brain development is to knowing and understanding that our children’s brains are not fully developed before they are 25 years🤓😬. Long time, I hear you say… it is indeed, so brace yourself for the journey!

    Hands up to those who became parents with under developed brains …. 🙋🏾‍♀️

    This isn’t to shame anyone but to create a place to reflect and think :

    So what does that mean to my parenting journey?
    How did my experience shape the relationship I have with my child/ren?

    Who else was/ is helping me in my transitioning and journey?

    How am I thriving in this space?

    What do I do with what I know now?

    In many non western cultures of the global majority, a village/ community is there to help raise a child hence some of the challenges of having children young were mitigated. The turbulent teen years were dealt with by a community so the nuclear family did not feel it that much. For those of us who grew up in Zimbabwe in the 90s and beyond we know how the christian values and beliefs shaped us even for those whose parents didn’t actively practice christianity. Gospel songs were everywhere and pretty much what we listened to especially in public places eg in commuter buses, shops and malls. So imagine the impact that had on our minds and well being!

    Fast forward to now, where families are dispersed and all over… what does that mean to be a PARENT in this fast paced world?

    How are you minding your child’s brain?

    What sort of things can you do as a parent to support positive brain development? How can you look after yourself during what is sometimes termed ‘turbulent teen years’?

    For this and more… Be sure to subscribe to this blog for the upcoming masterclass on intentionalparenting©️ starting in Autumn/November 2023.

    More details to follow…

    For now, remain intentional 🌱

  • Diaspora diaries: My children and their education-supporting exam time.

    Webinar

    Below are the tips we shared on supporting your children.

    God has called us into a *living* relationship with Him and those around us especially our families, children in particular.

    By investing time, we are able to be effective in supporting their journey into their growth.

    – Loving them despite and beyond the grades is key.

    – Love propels us to invest time in prayer for them.

    – Supporting them with their studies throughout the year is more important than exam day.

    – Speak to their teachers, be involved at school.

    – For most of us, the education system is a whole new experience. Seek to learn from others, ask questions, be open and willing to learn.

    – Let’s be sensitive and empathetic towards other parents who may seem to be struggling at school.

    –

    Here are seven effective strategies:

    1. Create a Study-Friendly Environment

    •Why: A quiet, organized space helps concentration and reduces distractions.

    •How:

    • Dedicate a specific area for studying, free from noise and clutter.

    • Provide good lighting, comfortable seating, and necessary stationery.

    • Encourage short, focused study sessions using the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of work, 5 minutes of break).

    2. Establish a Study Routine

    •Why: A consistent routine reduces anxiety and builds productive habits.

    •How:

    • Work together to create a realistic revision timetable, balancing core subjects and weaker areas.

    • Include regular breaks and time for relaxation to prevent burnout.

    • Monitor progress and adjust the plan if needed.

    3. Manage Phone and Social Media Usage

    •Why: Phones and social media can be major distractions during study time.

    •How:

    • Agree on “phone-free” study times and use apps like Forest or Focus Booster to block distractions.

    • Designate times for social media use, ideally during breaks or after study sessions.

    • Lead by example by minimizing your own screen time during family hours.

    4. Encourage a Balanced Lifestyle

    •Why: Physical activity, sleep, and a healthy diet improve focus and reduce stress.

    •How:

    • Promote regular exercise, such as walks, yoga, or sports.

    • Ensure they get 8-9 hours of sleep each night by setting consistent bedtimes.

    • Provide nutritious meals and encourage hydration, avoiding excess caffeine or sugary snacks.

    5. Offer Emotional Support

    •Why: GCSEs can be stressful, and children need to feel supported and understood.

    •How:

    • Listen to their concerns without judgment and offer reassurance.

    • Avoid comparing them to peers or siblings.

    • Celebrate small achievements to boost their confidence and motivation.

    6. Encourage Active Revision Techniques

    •Why: Passive studying is less effective than active learning.

    •How:

    • Suggest methods like mind maps, flashcards, practice exams, and teaching concepts to others.

    • Use online resources, such as GCSEPod, BBC Bitesize, or Seneca Learning, to diversify study approaches.

    • Discuss difficult topics together to help them articulate their understanding.

    7. Model a Growth Mindset

    •Why: A positive attitude can reduce anxiety and encourage perseverance.

    •How:

    • Emphasize effort over results: “It’s about doing your best, not being perfect.”

    • Share examples from your own life where persistence led to improvement.

    • Remind them that setbacks are learning opportunities, not failures.

    Bonus Tip: Stay Involved

    Regularly check in on their progress and well-being without micromanaging. Balance support with independence to build their confidence in managing their responsibilities.

  • Brethren

    Stumbled upon this verse and I have to admit, I was astounded!

    Astounded maybe because of my inadequacies, my flawed inability to stand long enough together with fellow bethren to see their prayers answered. Yet the Lord commands us to ‘stand together UNTIL”.

    When was the last time you stood in faith with someone for those things that He answered in your own life?

    #purpose

    #bethrenhood 🙏🏽❤