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 Flourishing Families: Insights from Amanda Erickson

Welcome to another edition of The Feast Life! Today, we're thrilled to bring you valuable insights from Amanda Erickson, the voice behind The Flourishing Family on Instagram. Amanda joined us to share her journey and wisdom on parenting, nurturing a flourishing family, and deeply connecting with our children. Read on for key takeaways and practical tips from our enlightening conversation.

A Journey of Faith and Family

Amanda Erickson and her husband David started their journey to family life after a long battle with infertility and foster care. Blessed with two children in quick succession, they soon found themselves overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting. Determined to find a nurturing and compassionate approach, Amanda and David began to explore new resources and parenting techniques, sharing their experiences on social media. What started as a personal endeavor blossomed into a thriving ministry known as Flourishing Homes and Families.

Flourishing vs. Surviving

One of the central themes of Amanda's message is the concept of flourishing. Rooted in Psalm 114:15, the idea of flourishing contrasts sharply with merely surviving. Amanda emphasizes that flourishing involves recognizing and embracing God's purpose for us, even during challenging times. Just as plants go through seasons of growth and dormancy, families too can flourish through different stages of life.

Abiding in Christ

A significant part of Amanda's parenting philosophy is the practice of abiding in Christ. For over a year, she focused solely on reading the Gospels to better understand Jesus and his teachings. This deep dive into scripture transformed her perspective, helping her to see Jesus as a compassionate and active presence in her life. Amanda encourages parents to immerse themselves in the Gospels, as knowing Jesus deeply can transform how we parent and interact with our children.

Modeling Desired Behaviors

Children often mirror their parents' behaviors and tones. Amanda highlights the importance of modeling the actions and words we wish to see in our children. Whether it's speaking kindly or managing anger constructively, our children learn by observing us. By embodying the values and behaviors we want to instill, we set a powerful example for our kids to follow.

Growth Over Guilt

It's easy to fall into a cycle of guilt and shame when we make mistakes as parents. Amanda urges parents to focus on growth instead. Mistakes are opportunities for learning and improving, not reasons for self-condemnation. Recognizing that Jesus does not condemn us, but rather seeks to nurture and guide us, can help shift our mindset from guilt to growth.

Connect Before You Correct

One of the most practical pieces of advice Amanda offers is to connect with your child before correcting them. Establishing a sense of safety and understanding helps children be more receptive to guidance and learning. This approach not only strengthens the parent-child relationship but also creates a foundation for effective discipline and long-term character development.

Practical Tips for Regulating Stress

Both parents and children experience stress, and managing it effectively is crucial for a harmonious family life. Amanda suggests simple, practical strategies such as staying hydrated, eating well, and moving your body. For children, it's important to recognize their individual needs and help them find healthy ways to cope with stress, whether it's through quiet time or physical activity.

Trusting God's Plan

Amanda's final piece of advice is a reminder that we are not solely responsible for our children's outcomes. While we play a vital role in their upbringing, it is ultimately God who guides and shapes their lives. Trusting in His plan and releasing the pressure to control every aspect of our children's development can bring peace and freedom to our parenting journey.

Amanda Erickson's insights on parenting and family life offer a refreshing and faith-filled perspective. By focusing on flourishing, abiding in Christ, modeling desired behaviors, and prioritizing connection, we can create a nurturing environment for our children. Remember, the goal is not perfection but growth, both for ourselves and our families.

About Our Guest:

Dr. David and Amanda Erickson are the founders of Flourishing Homes & Families, a ministry that educates, empowers, and equips Christian parents to lead their families through parenting principles that are rooted in the teaching of Jesus. With David’s background in theology and Amanda’s love for child development, they’re passionate about helping parents find harmony at the intersection of Jesus-centered theology and modern neuroscience. David previously served as a pastor and spent fourteen years as a seminary theology professor. In 2023 he became president of Jacksonville College, where he guides the faculty and staff in preparing students to lead Jesus-centered lives that transform churches, communities, and the world. A former foster mom and pastor’s wife, Amanda is an artist with a free spirit and can often be found watercolor painting, sipping coffee on her front porch swing, making up silly songs for her two boys and dogs, and hiking the woods near their home on a little farm in East Texas.

Connect with Amanda:

Website: Flourishing Homes and Families  

Instagram: @flourishinghomesandfamilies 

Facebook: @flourishinghomesandfamilies  

The Flourishing Family Book: Order Now! 

Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a flourishing family life. Until next time, keep abiding and growing in love and grace!