Thoughts for the Journey 

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting I can still picture it: one of my kids melting down in the grocery store aisle while I felt every...

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting The other day, one of my grandkids grabbed a toy from his little cousin and he burst into tears. My...

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting It starts small. A laugh. A squeal. A happy shriek from the other room. And then, before you know...

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting I originally wrote this post at the start of COVID, but its message holds true anytime we find...

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting If there’s one parenting topic guaranteed to stir up strong feelings, it’s screens. Are they ruining childhood? Are we ruining our kids if we let them have "too much"? Is it even possible to parent today without them? Let’s start with this: you’re not failing if your kids use screens. Screens are woven into modern life — and sometimes, you hand your toddler the iPad just to make dinner, finish a work call, or catch your sanity for a few mi

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting Parenting is sacred—and sometimes overwhelming. In a world flooded with social media sound bites and endless advice, it’s easy to feel like you’re doing everything wrong. But here’s the truth: Most parents don’t need more “tips.” They need a solid foundation—a way to parent with connection, clarity, and confidence. Here are 7 guiding principles to help you parent with purpose — not panic . 1. Connection Before Correction Kids are more lik

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen1 Parenting Parenting is full of joy—but also full of lies we’re tempted to believe. Lies about our worth, our kids, and even about God. Left unchecked, these false beliefs can rob us of peace and purpose. The good news? God's Word cuts through the noise and reminds us of what's true. Here are 5 common lies—and the truth that sets us free: Lie #1: “I’m failing as a parent.” Truth: "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in lo

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen 1 Parenting In our part of Michigan right now, as winter has finally arrived in all its glory, we're on our...

I originally wrote this during the early days of COVID, when so many parents unexpectedly found themselves in the role of teacher at...