August 2026
AUGUST 2026
THE MAGAZINE THAT BATON ROUGE FAMILIES LIVE BY
BOOKED, BUSY & BURNT OUT
THE PRESSURE TO PERFORM
AFTER-SCHOOL Adventures Await
Wheels down at BTR. Be there before bedtime.
They stayed up waiting for you.
Where locals fly. Book online at flybtr.com.
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CONTENTS August 2026 • Issue 433 in each issue
The Mama Files Community Education Book Corner Dad Next Door
6 8
10 12 14 16 18 52 60 62
Thrive Faith
Things to Do Things We Love
Snapshots
features
2025–26 Cover Kid Paige W.’s kind heart, compassionate spirit, and joyful personality make her a delight to be around. Whether she’s dancing ballet, creating arts and crafts, or exploring her love of beauty, she approaches everything with creativity, dedication, and determination.
ACHIEVEMENT KIDS & ACTIVITY CULTURE Examine how overscheduled lives, youth sports, and achievement pressure are impacting kids’ mental, physical, and family well-being. 24 THE OVERSCHEDULED CHILDHOOD Between practices, lessons, and packed calendars, are today’s children thriving or simply trying to keep up? 28 WHAT TEACHERS WISH PARENTS KNEW IN 2026 What’s really happening inside today’s classrooms? Local teachers discuss the challenges, misconceptions, and hopes shaping education in 2026. 32 37 AFTER THE BELL: LOCAL AFTER-SCHOOL FUN From dance and drama to coding and karate, discover the local after-school programs helping Baton Rouge kids learn, grow, and thrive beyond the classroom. THE COVER KID EVENT IS BACK—NOW WITH A SENSORY-FRIENDLY HOUR! The Cover Kid Event returns with a more inclusive experience featuring a new Sensory-Friendly Hour designed to help every child shine. 44
PHOTOS BY THE DINNER DETECTIVE AND MAGNIFIC.COM
what’s on the web
AUGUST FAMILY BUCKET LIST Fun activities to enjoy this month.
5 DATE NIGHT IDEAS FOR PARENTS Reconnect and make time for just the two of you.
DINNER IN A DASH Family-friendly recipes for busy school nights.
THE R3 RESET Learn how the three R’s can transform family conflicts.
CONNECT WITH US
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THE Mama FILES
MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CIANI REBECCA FAST MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS KAILEY GREMILLION EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN PRODUCTION MANAGER KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MORGAN ESPENAN DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR NATALIE KAISER SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATOR MAIH MANUSO CONTENT MULTIPLICATION SPECIALIST TRINITY GRAYSON SARAH MILLER MERCEDES MITCHELL CLIENT SUCCESS REPRESENTATIVES ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN THOMAS DRYBURGH JENNIFER HOFFMANN MORGAN PRICE JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE A s summer winds down and we wrap up another flag football season—one that will end with a trip to the 3rd Annual NFL Flag Championship—I’m reminded how quickly one season gives way to the next. Before we know it, another sport, another practice, and another full calendar will be waiting. But before we jump into that rhythm again, I’ve found myself saying something a little unexpected this summer. “I’m glad you’re bored.” I’ve said it more than once. Not because I want my kids to be miserable, of course, but because boredom can be a gift. It gives children room to imagine, create, wander outside, invent games, and discover who they are when no one is directing the next play. Extracurricular activities bring so much value. They teach teamwork, discipline, creativity, resilience, and courage. I love watching my kids play basketball and flag football, compete in long jump, and dance. Each activity gives them a chance to discover what they enjoy, build confidence, and learn something new about themselves. But it’s also easy for all of us to get caught up in scores, performances, awards, and improve- ment. Suddenly, something that started as fun can begin to feel like one more place where a child has to succeed. Our kids don’t need to be the best at everything they try. They need permission to explore, make mistakes, change their minds, and simply enjoy the experience. And they need us to show up. Whether I’m watching a basketball game, standing near the long jump pit, cheering from the flag football sidelines, or sitting in the audience at a dance competition, I’ve realized the best seat in the house isn’t about having the perfect view. It’s about being the face my chil- dren look for in the crowd. As we head into another school year, I hope we can find a little balance between activity and rest, between cheering them on and giving them room to breathe. A full calendar can be wonderful, but it doesn’t have to define a full childhood. Sometimes the greatest gifts we can give our kids are an unscheduled afternoon, permis- sion to be bored, and the reassurance that they never have to earn our applause. Years from now, they may not remember every score, jump, game, or routine. But they’ll remember who was there, cheering them on.
ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH
ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GAYLE GAUTHREAUX DIRECTOR OF FINANCE ALEXIS ALEXANDER ASSOCIATE CHIEF OF STAFF KELSEY TAYLOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
CONTACT US EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816
Amy L. Foreman Publisher
2025
2023
2024
BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FRG publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.
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community
HOCKEY IS BACK IN BATON ROUGE! Professional hockey is getting a fresh start in Baton Rouge. After the former Baton Rouge Zydeco folded earlier this year, a new team will take the ice this fall at the Raising Cane’s River Center under the leadership of Andreas Johansson, owner of the championship-winning Binghamton Black Bears. The yet-to-be-named team will remain part of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, keeping the excitement of fast-paced hockey alive in the Capital City. Team details, tickets, and a new name are expected later this summer, just in time for families to plan some cool nights at the rink. ■ federalhockey.com
BREC EXPANDS ACCESS TO LIFESAVING AEDS A trip to the park just got a little safer. BREC is installing 124 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) across parks and facilities throughout East Baton Rouge Parish, helping ensure lifesaving equipment is never far away during an emergency. The devices, designed with easy-to-follow audio and visual instructions, will be placed in high-traffic areas and added to the PulsePoint app so they can be quickly located when needed. Installation began at summer camp sites and will expand parishwide in the coming weeks. It’s one more way BREC is helping families enjoy the outdoors with greater peace of mind. ■ brec.org
A TASTE OF HAWAII IS HEADED TO BATON ROUGE
Get ready to add a little island flavor to family dinner night! Hawaiian Bros Island Grill is bringing its first Louisiana location to Baton Rouge. The new restaurant is planned for the growing Long Farm Village development off Airline Highway and is expected to open next year. Known for its Hawaiian-inspired menu featuring grilled meats, rice, and tropical flavors, the fast-casual eatery has been expanding across the country. For local families looking to try something new, this upcoming spot promises a fun and flavorful taste of the islands, no plane ticket required. ■ hawaiianbros.com
FRESH FOOD ON THE WAY FOR NORTH BATON ROUGE Good news for families in North Baton Rouge! A new grocery store, Harvest Fresh, is helping bring fresh, healthy food closer to home. Scheduled to open in Fall 2027, the store aims to address a longtime food- access challenge in the area, where many residents must travel significant distances to reach a full-service grocery store. For families, students, and seniors without reliable transportation, that can make healthy eating difficult. Community leaders hope the new market will provide easier access to fresh produce, pantry staples, and nutritious options while supporting neighborhood growth. It’s a welcome step toward making healthy choices more convenient and helping local families thrive. ■ theblvdatharding.com
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A SPECIAL THANK YOU FOR THOSE WHO SERVE Families of military members, veterans, and first responders can enjoy more opportunities to explore Baton Rouge’s arts and science scene thanks to a continued free-admission program at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. Through the nationwide Blue Star Museums initiative, eligible families receive year-round admission to the museum and its planetarium. Since launching locally in 2018, the program has welcomed more than 16,000 visitors, helping connect service members and their loved ones with educational and cultural experiences. It’s a meaningful way to recognize those who serve while creating memorable family outings filled with discovery and fun. ■ lasm.org
TRAEH THYSSEN HAVE A HEART FOUNDATION
OUR MISSION It is our hope to take a stand to stop bullying and prevent youth suicide. We seek to provide heartfelt assistance to families who have lost a child related to bullying and/or suicide. We hope to do this by enhancing awareness and providing education, training, and emotional and financial support to families and communities. Some of our activities include youth-led panels, random act of kindness events, #SockItToSuicide Sock Drive benefiting the homeless, #13MinuteChallenge, and the Bullying and Suicide Awareness Runway show. He was caring, compassionate, loving, forgiving, kind, and considerate. Traeh died by suicide on October 3, 2019 as a result of unresolved bullying by his peers. Traeh was a 13-year-old middle school student. His name is heart spelled backwards.
A NEW PLACE TO SHOP, GIVE, AND CONNECT
Visit: ihaveaheart.org for more information
Families on Baton Rouge’s Greenwell Springs Road have a new reason to stop and shop. St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge recently opened the Holmes Thrift Store and Outreach Center, combining affordable shopping with community support services under one roof. The location is the organization’s fifth thrift store and first outreach center, making it easier for local residents to access helpful resources close to home. Donations and purchases help fund programs that provide food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare to neighbors in need. It’s a simple way for families to shop with purpose while giving back to the community. ■ svdpbr.net
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education
PARKVIEW STUDENTS SHINE ON STAGE
WALKER ROBOTICS TEAMS MAKE A SPLASH
Parkview Baptist School middle school students closed out the academic year with a successful evening of “One Act Plays” that showcased their creativity and talent. The sixth-grade production, My First Day , and the seventh-grade performance, Cafeteria on Trial , were both written and directed by choir director Jonathan White and kept audiences laughing throughout the night. Eighth-grade students presented Knock Knock , written by Kathryn Funkhouser and Jason Pizzarello and directed by Gracie Feucht, featuring a series of humorous encounters experienced by delivery workers. The performances highlighted students’ acting abilities while celebrating the leadership and dedication of their teachers and directors.
Students in the Walker High School Wildcats Robotics program earned multiple honors at the 13th Annual Northern Gulf Coast Regional MATE ROV Competition in Dauphin Island, Alabama. Competing against 18 teams from four states, students used custom-built underwater robots to tackle real-world challenges, including mapping the seabed, monitoring marine habitats, and operating equipment beneath ice. Teams earned awards for teamwork, innovation, and communication, while all participating students were recognized for their leadership and character. The Wildcats also stood out for volunteering after the event, demonstrating that success in robotics extends beyond technical skills to include collaboration, resilience, and community- minded leadership.
ASCENSION FFA CHAPTERS EARN NATIONAL HONORS Two Ascension Parish FFA chapters are receiving national recognition for their outstanding achievements. The East Ascension and St. Amant FFA chapters both earned prestigious three-star national rankings through the National FFA Chapter Award Program, placing them among the top chapters in the country. Fewer than 10 percent of FFA chapters achieve this distinction. Both groups also received Gold Emblem status at the state level and advanced to national competition last summer. Adding to the celebration, St. Amant FFA was named National Champion in the Building Communities Division, honoring the chapter’s dedication to service, leadership, and making a positive impact in the community.
SJA GRADUATE PRESENTS RESEARCH ON GLOBAL STAGE Recent St. Joseph’s Academy graduate Brinkley Bennett represented Louisiana at the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona. The global STEM competition brought together more than 1,700 student researchers from 67 countries. Bennett presented her original research project, “We the People: An Empirical Analysis of the U.S. Political Climate,” which used polling data, government databases, and historical trends to create election projections. Beyond showcasing her research, Bennett engaged in meaningful conversations with students from around the world about government, innovation, and civic engagement. She described the experience as unforgettable and an opportunity to explore new ideas and perspectives on an international stage.
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There are many effective ways to reduce stuttering. Doing nothing is not one of them.
BRMHS GRADUATES EARN PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS Five graduates from Baton Rouge Magnet High School’s Class of 2026 have been awarded National Merit Scholarships sponsored by colleges and universities across the country. Recipients include Olivia Bryant, Charlotte Carpenter, Isha Pasala, Nicolas Peer, and Brianna Warren. The scholarships provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study. The students are among just 6,700 seniors nationwide selected through the highly competitive National Merit Scholarship Program, which recognizes academic excellence, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and future goals. Their achievement highlights the strength of Baton Rouge Magnet High’s academic programs and the dedication of its students, teachers, and families.
THE S TUTTERING F OUNDATION A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter ®
800-992-9392 www.StutteringHelp.org
MCILWAIN RECEIVES NEIGHBORS WAY SCHOLARSHIP Recent Dunham School graduate Anna McIlwain was awarded a $3,000 college scholarship from the Neighbors Capital Area Foundation through the Neighbors Way Tuition Assistance Program. Selected through her school’s participation in the Neighbors Mascot Checking Program, McIlwain was recognized for her character and commitment to values including integrity, respect, honesty, and community involvement. A summa cum laude graduate and AP Scholar, she served as Community Prefect and cheer co-captain and received the 2026 Katharine O. Dunham Award for exemplary conduct.
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book corner
G et ready to turn the page on a brand new school year! Whether you’re starting a new grade, meeting new friends, or simply looking forward to fresh adventures, the library has the perfect back-to-school reads for August.
YOUTH Sophie’s Squash Go To School by
Some school days rock and some are not so groovy. Join Pete the Cat as he learns how to cope when things are not going his way on a not-so-groovy school day. Will he be able to find some cheerful things to help turn the day around? Parents and kids will appreciate the chance to talk about and plan for struggles at school before they happen as they read about Pete’s bad day. Mixed U p by Kami Garcia Stella is super excited for school this year! Not only will she finally be a fifth grader, but she has the same class as her two best friends, and they got the best teacher in the fifth grade! However, the books they are reading in fifth grade are a struggle for Stella. Even the online game—with the super thick manual—they are trying to play together is overwhelming. Will Stella get stuck in fifth grade while everyone breezes past her or will her teacher and family notice what Stella is struggling to hide? Mixed Up is based on real life experiences from the author’s childhood when she was diagnosed with dyslexia.
up against the bully before his school year is ruined for good?
Pat Zietlow Miller and Anne Wilsdorf Sophie isn’t sure about school. Things are different from home. The chairs aren’t as comfy, the milk tastes weird, and, worst of all, a little boy keeps trying to be her best friend. She already has two best friends! Bonnie and Baxter may be squash from her garden, but Sophie loves them. As Sophie’s squash friends get old and squishy and she begins to like school more and more, will she also be able to accept a new human friend? Big Kids by K. L. Going Incoming kindergarten and PreK students look up to the big kids—sometimes WAY up! As the little boy in this story enters school for the first time, he’s super intimidated by the heavy thump of fast-moving big kid feet and super wide, confident big kid grins as they greet each other. That intimidation doesn’t last long, though. Big kids remember being little kids and can’t wait to help their little buddies fit right in! Get Ready for School! by Rachel Accurso Elmo and YouTube star Ms. Rachel invite new students to join them as they get ready for their first day at preschool. While there are many books previewing the actual school day, this board book encourages families to think about the equally important routines at home that go into making a child’s transition to school familiar and successful.
Worst Broommate Ever by Wanda Coven Heidi is heading to middle school, and not just any middle school, but Broomfield Academy—a special boarding school for witches. Heidi will get to take magic classes, and she’ll finally have classmates who have magic too! The only problem is, her new roommate is someone very familiar—her old nemesis Melanie Maplethorpe—who has no magic! Roommates at Broomfield are supposed to do everything together, from activities to meals to games—which means no magic for Heidi. Will the new school year be ruined by Melanie, or is Heidi being too judgey and missing out on what could be an awesome friendship?
Schools Around The World by Eleanor O’Connell
While American kids hop on the big yellow bus heading to school for their first day, kids all over the world may hop on a boat, a moped, or something else! Find out about what makes school different, and the same, for students around the globe in this upbeat exploration of the educational experience! TWEENS AND TEENS Dear Student by Elly Swartz Starting middle school is rough for Autumn after her one and only BFF moves to California. Uncertain and anxious, she struggles to connect with her new classmates. The two potential friends she meets could not be more different. But
The Only Ghost in School by Tara J. Hannon
Ghostie’s first year at his new school in Smithville is not going well. He’s the only ghost and everyone else is human. Then the school bully convinces everyone to call him Grossie Ghostie! He really wants to go back to his old school in Scareville where there are lots of monsters, ghouls, and ghosts, but his ghost parents are loving their new human life. Will Ghostie be able to figure out how to appreciate his awesome ghost self and stand
Pete The Cat’s Not So Groovy Day by Kim Dean
Book Corner is provided by librarians at the East Baton Rouge Parish Library. To learn more about the libraries in East Baton Rouge Parish, visit ebrpl.com.
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Autumn has a dilemma: What do you do when the new friends you make don’t like each other? Schooled by Gordon Korman Homeschooled by his hippie grandmother, Capricorn (Cap) Anderson has never watched television, tasted a pizza, or even heard of a wedgie. But when his grandmother lands in the hospital, Cap is forced to move in with a school counselor and attend the local middle school. While Cap knows a lot about tie-dyeing and Zen Buddhism, no education could prepare him for the politics of public school. Almost American Girl by Robin Ha A vacation to visit friends in Huntsville, Alabama, turns into a permanent move when Robin’s mother announces she’s getting married. Suddenly, Robin is navigating a new school, a new family, and a new language while grieving the life she left behind in South Korea. Angry with her mother and struggling to fit in, Robin finds an unexpected outlet when she enrolls in a local comic drawing class, opening the door to a future she never imagined. It's Boba Time for Pearl Li! by Nicole Chen Pearl Li is ready to spend the summer before seventh grade hanging out with her two best friends, crocheting the cutest amigurumi dolls, and visiting her favorite tea shop, Boba Time. Its quirky owner, Auntie Cha, is the only adult Pearl can confide in about her art—if only her tech- obsessed family would understand her love of crafts!
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dad next door
Dr. James Wayne
BY AMANDA MILLER
F or Dr. James Wayne, being a father has shaped him just as much as his career in medicine. As an associate medical director, pediatrician, and Army veteran, he’s spent decades caring for children and serving others, but he says some of his greatest lessons have come from raising his own daughters. From balancing a demand- ing career with family life to passing on the values of accountability and leadership, Dr. Wayne shares how fatherhood continues to influence the way he leads at home and in the exam room. AS A PEDIATRICIAN, WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF PARENTING ADVICE YOU FIND YOURSELF GIVING MOST OFTEN? JAMES: I find myself talking to people the most about the fact that there’s still no cure for the common cold. I get asked what people can do to prevent their children from getting colds. Can they take a supplement, a vitamin, or something to try to help decrease the chances of their child getting a cold? And the short answer is no. They then ask, well, once my child gets a cold, what medicines should I use? And really, it’s just pain control, a humid- ifier, keep them comfortable, and give it some time. There’s really not a lot to do, but I spend a good deal of my time in the clinic reassur- ing parents about the common cold. YOU’VE SERVED IN THE ARMY. HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE SHAPED THE KIND OF FATHER YOU ARE TODAY? JAMES: The interesting thing is that the Army trained me to be a pediatrician. I went to West Point straight out of high school. Then I left West Point and went straight into medical school in the health profession scholarship program. The military paid for me to go to medical school in exchange for continued service. I served 12 years on active duty, and then I continued to serve in the reserves as well. Altogether I served for 26 years.
Occupation: Associate Medical Director & Pediatrician Wife: Tisha Powell-Wayne Children: Nina, 24, and Evangeline “Eva”, 12 Hobbies: Working out, golfing,
fishing, and helping my daughter with softball
I learned a couple of lessons. My oldest daughter was one of my best teachers when it comes to learning how to be a pedia- trician. Experience as a parent was one of my best teachers. As far as the military and discipline is concerned, I try as much as I can to instill some of the principles of accounta- bility, punctuality, and self-discipline in my daughters. Now, it's difficult. I can't parent my daughters the same way that I trained new cadets when I was at West Point, but at the same time, there are lifelong lessons in accountability and leadership that I learned. YOU’VE EXPERIENCED LIFE IN DIFFERENT PLACES. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO RETURN HOME TO BATON ROUGE? JAMES: The main reason we decided to come back home, and it was always part of our plan, was to be close to family. Both my wife and I are from South Louisiana. I’m from Don- aldsonville and she’s from Thibodaux, and most of our extended family is within an hour to an hour-and-a-half radius of where we live now, with a few outliers that live out of state. For the most part, this is home for everybody. Being close to aging parents was one of the big factors in our return. WITH SUCH A BUSY SCHEDULE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY, WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT BALANCING THOSE SCHEDULES WHILE STILL MAKING TIME FOR FAMILY? JAMES: I’ve learned that prioritizing time
with my family helps me to be a better leader, a better pediatrician. Keeping them first and foremost in my mind allows me to be better at my job. For a long time, I really did have that reversed where the job was first and then I would do time for family when I could. I really have tried to change that and make sure that I’m doing my job and doing it to the best of my ability, but also within that same framework, prioritizing spending time with my family. You can do both. For a long time, I was really focused on work to the detriment of spending that extra time, but now I feel like I’m doing a much better job at being both a good physician and a good leader at work and being there for my family.
WHAT’S THE SECRET TO YOU AND TISHA’S PARTNERSHIP?
JAMES: We started dating when we were 19 years old, so we grew up and became adults together. We didn’t meet each other as fin- ished products. My wife and I do a really good job of making decisions together. It’s that sort of communication and understanding that if one of us has hesitancy about a decision that we’re making, it really does give the other partner pause. If there’s something that I want to do and my wife is hesitant about it, I take a step back and think, if I’m thinking this is a good idea, but my life partner is saying she’s not so sure, that really changes my focus. On the other hand, if I propose some- thing and my wife is all in, I know it’s the right
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decision. Listening to each other’s concerns, I would say, that’s been the biggest thing.
their personalities could not be more differ- ent. Even though they share the same birth- day, they’re very different children. The first one, she was really easygoing and easy to take care of. She likes to follow the rules. The second one, not so much. She’s fun though. She’s quick-witted. She’s a little athlete. But, you definitely have to be patient. Especially me being an older parent now, having pa- tience as times change has been one of the things that’s been really important. ARE THERE ANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF AS A DAD? JAMES: My oldest decided to follow in my footsteps and become a doctor. I’m pretty proud of that. She’s a remarkable student. She’s done everything that we’ve asked her or encouraged her to do throughout her academic career. She’s a rising second-year medical student right now. She wants to be a psychiatrist, which is a little bit different from me, but the fact that she chose to go into medicine even after seeing me out of the house a lot, even after seeing me sometimes deciding to prioritize work over family, even after seeing all of that, she still is planning to go into medicine. I’m proud of the fact that even though to me it seems like my busy
schedule would have been off-putting, it still inspired her to have a career in medicine.
ARE THERE ANY FAMILY OR WEEKEND RITUALS THAT YOU REALLY LOOK FORWARD TO?
WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR DAUGHTERS REMEMBER MOST ABOUT GROWING UP WITH YOU AS THEIR FATHER? JAMES: I hope they remember that I spent time with them whenever I could. I try very hard to be present in their lives. I try to be a confidant that they can talk to when things are hard. Sometimes I need to work on my patience. I want to be able to be someone who they can always talk to even when the situation is difficult. So that would be it: always have time for them and always be someone who they can talk to even when it's hard. RAPID-FIRE QUESTIONS Favorite spot for date night… any place where we can sit down and have a conversation. One word that best describes your family… classic. Favorite food… a good eight-plus- ounce filet. Hidden talent… playing the violin.
JAMES: The thing that we look forward to the most on weekends, if we don’t have soft- ball, is just sitting around the house or sitting by the pool listening to music and talking. The best days for me are when I get a chance to grill something. YOU’VE WATCHED ONE DAUGHTER BEGIN MEDICAL SCHOOL AND ANOTHER IS IN MIDDLE SCHOOL. WHAT HAS PARENTING CHILDREN IN SUCH DIFFERENT STAGES OF LIFE TAUGHT YOU? JAMES: To be honest with you, these two girls are growing up almost as an only child in the household. They overlapped at home for a couple of years, but it was pretty brief. My oldest, when she was 16 and the little one was four, went to a boarding school in North Carolina, similar to the Louisiana School for Science and Math. From there, she went on to college, so the little one has been kind of an only child since she was four. It’s been a different experience raising the two girls, and
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thrive
Measuring Life in “Inchstones” Samuel’s Story W hen Katie Martinez was 35 weeks pregnant, she called her doctor because something didn’t feel what Katie calls “inchstones,” earned through years of effort. Life today still requires structure and BY AMANDA MILLER
The diagnosis explained a lot, but it also changed everything. Prader-Willi affects how the brain communicates with the body, espe- cially around hunger, muscle tone, sleep, and regulation. In Samuel’s case, it meant severe feeding difficulties as a newborn and long- term developmental challenges that would require ongoing care. The early years were defined by specialists, therapies, and constant adjustment. Feeding therapists, neurologists, and developmental teams became part of everyday life. Katie describes that time as deeply isolating, watching other families leave the hospital with their babies while she stayed behind, living day to day without answers or timelines. But slowly, progress came. Support also came early from the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association USA, an organization that connected Katie with other parents, medical guidance, and a community that understood what life with this diagnosis really looks like beyond the hospital walls. Samuel learned to eat by mouth. He learned to walk at two and a half. He began speaking, singing loudly, and greeting his younger brother every morning with a joyful, “Hey brother.” Each milestone felt enormous,
right. Her baby, Samuel, wasn’t moving the way he usually did. That call quickly turned into an ultrasound, then hospital moni- toring, then an overnight stay she didn’t expect. What began as precaution turned into growing concern. At a routine visit at 37 weeks, things escalated again when doctors discovered Katie had low amniotic fluid, and she was told she needed to deliver that day. Samuel was born by C-section, but instead of the immediate relief Katie had imagined, there was concern almost right away. He had low muscle tone, a faint cry, and struggled to feed. Within hours, he was in the NICU. What was supposed to be a short hospital stay turned into seven weeks of uncertainty, specialists, and waiting for answers. In those early days, Katie was learning how to be a mother in a hospital room filled with moni- tors and questions no one could fully answer yet. Samuel wasn’t feeding well. He needed a tube for nutrition. And even the medical team was still trying to understand what was going on. Eventually, genetic testing brought clarity: Prader-Willi Syndrome.
vigilance, especially around food safety and access. The condition affects hunger regula- tion in a way that requires constant aware- ness, planning, and advocacy in school and community settings. But Katie’s focus is not only on what Samuel needs, it’s on who he is. He is verbal, affectionate, social, and deeply bonded with his brother. And he is learning and growing in ways that don’t always look typical, but are deeply meaningful. Along the way, Katie has become an advocate, not just for Sam, but for awareness. She’s learned to speak up in medical settings, push for understanding, and stay connected to the broader community through orga- nizations like the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association | USA (PWSA), which continues to support families navigating the same path. Because while the diagnosis shaped their lives, it didn’t define Samuel. What defines him now are the small victo- ries, the daily routines, and a family that has learned how to build a life around progress that comes one “inchstone” at a time. To learn more about PWSA, visit pwsausa.org.
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faith
How to Start a Bible Study Habit in 2026 (Even as a Busy Mom!) I f you’ve ever felt like your Bible is sitting on the nightstand unopened while the demands of motherhood swirl around 3. Use a Simple Study Method Bible study doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or complicated. You don’t need a seminary degree. You just need reminder that you’re not walking this journey alone. BY KAYLA TRAPP | PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
6. Let Grace Lead, Not Guilt There will be days you miss. Days your child wakes up early, or you’re too exhausted to keep your eyes open. That’s okay. This isn’t about performance; it’s about presence. God isn’t keeping score. He’s extending an invitation. When you miss a day (or a week), don’t start over. Just start again. His grace meets you right where you are, every single time. 7. Live What You Learn Bible study isn’t just about reading. It’s about transformation. The real fruit shows up in how you love your kids, how you speak to your spouse, and how you handle the hard days. As you study, look for one simple takeaway each day, such as a truth to hold onto, a verse to memorize, or an attitude to shift. Write verses on sticky notes and place them where you’ll see them: on the bathroom mirror, the refrigerator, or in your car. Let Scripture become part of your home’s atmosphere. Because the more God’s Word fills your heart, the more it overflows into your family. A Word for the Mom Who Feels Behind Maybe you’ve tried before and stopped. Maybe you feel like you don’t have the time, energy, or focus to build this habit. Friend, you are not behind. You’re being invited. God delights in your desire to know Him. He’s not waiting for perfection. He’s waiting for you. So start small. Start today. And trust that every quiet moment in His Word is planting seeds of peace, wisdom, and strength that will bear fruit in your home and heart. This piece was originally published on MomLife Today and has been reprinted here with permission.
you, you’re not alone. Between school drop- offs, snack time, laundry piles, and bedtime routines, finding time to open God’s Word can feel almost impossible. Developing a Bible study habit as a mom isn’t about doing more, it’s about drawing closer. It’s about inviting the peace of God into your real, everyday life. If you’re ready to begin (or begin again), here are seven simple, grace-filled ways to start a Bible study habit and actually keep it. 1. Start Small, But Stay Consistent You don’t need to wake up at 5 a.m. or spend an hour in deep study. God can do a lot with a little when your heart is open. Even 5–10 minutes a day can help you grow in faith. Start with a single verse or a short passage that’s manageable and meaningful. The key isn’t the length of time; it’s the consistency of showing up. So whether you open your Bible during nap time, while waiting in the car line, or before you go to bed, remember this: Every minute you spend with God is time well spent. 2. Designate a Sacred Space You don’t need a fancy “prayer corner” or a perfectly curated space. But having a consistent spot can help your mind and heart prepare to meet with God. Maybe it’s your favorite chair by the window, the kitchen table before the kids wake up, or even your car during a lunch break. Keep your Bible, notebook, and pen nearby so it’s easy to sit down and begin. If you can, add something that makes the space peaceful, such as soft worship music, a candle, or a cozy blanket. When you treat this space as sacred, it reminds your heart that God is waiting there, ready to meet you.
a teachable heart. Try using a simple framework like the S.O.A.P. method:
S – Scripture: Write down a verse or passage that stands out to you. O – Observation: Note what’s happening in the text and what stands out. A – Application: Ask, “How can I live this truth out today in my home, my marriage, or my parenting?” P – Prayer: End with a short prayer asking God to help you apply it. This approach keeps your time with God focused, meaningful, and personal even when life is busy. 4. Pair It With Something You Already Do Habits stick best when they’re tied to existing routines. Instead of “finding” time, build your Bible study into moments that already exist in your day. For example, read a verse while sipping your morning coffee, listen to an audio Bible while folding laundry, reflect on a Psalm while waiting in the school pickup line, and end your day by reading one chapter instead of scrolling on your phone. When you anchor your Bible time to something you already do, it becomes a natural part of your daily rhythm. 5. Invite Community and Accountability Motherhood can be isolating, but your walk with God doesn’t have to be. Find another mom who also wants to grow in her faith and commit to reading together. You can share verses over text, pray together once a week, or start a simple Bible study group at church or in your neighborhood. Having others walk alongside you brings encouragement, accountability, and a
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Achievement Kids & Activity Culture:
When Success Becomes a Source of Stress BY JULIANNA STEEN | PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY | 2025–26 COVER KID PAIGE W.
I n days gone by, children used to roam outside playing until dark; now, “free time” has been replaced by the hustle of club sports, competitive cheer, ACT tutoring, and a hodgepodge of school-related club meetings. If you feel like a full-time, unpaid Uber driver for your kids, you’re not alone. Today’s children have full-length resumes before they have driver’s licenses. Just last week, a sixth grader told me about her future career goals and the colleges she was already considering. Dreaming about the future is one thing; feeling pressure to map out your college admissions strategy at 12 is another. The pressure isn't just on kids to succeed—it's on parents to engineer that success. WHY ACTIVITY CULTURE IS TOXIC Childhood has become a race to stay busy. Many kids spend their afternoons bouncing between practices, lessons, tutoring, and
club meetings, leaving little time for free play, family dinners, or even enough sleep.
benefits. But when you overdo it, you might be surprised at some of the repercussions. For instance, the 2024 National Youth Sports Parent Survey by Aspen Institute reports that over 35 percent of the parents in their sample “believe that their family’s youth sport commitments contribute to less healthy eating habits.” The same study reveals that most families (56.3 percent) eat two to four meals out per week because of their child’s sport schedule, and “slightly more than 1 in 10 families (13.2 percent) eat five to seven meals out per week” for the same reason. Not only is it important for children to eat healthy, it’s even more important for young athletes to eat well in order to prevent injury, help muscles recover, and improve their energy levels. FAMILY HEALTH Activity Culture also cuts down family time. Getting the kids where they need to go is a game of strategy, and most nights it’s a
MENTAL HEALTH Activity Culture can prove detrimental to kids’ health, despite the fact it’s supposed to make them healthier humans. An article by Mindset describing a 2024 study correlates an excess of activities and homework with anxiety and depression in kids. “There’s a point where a child could still boost his academic skills by doing another hour of homework or tutoring,” writer Jill Barshay explains, “but it would come at the expense of mental well-being.”While it initially proves beneficial for the child, this overworking ends up “making students more anxious, depressed, or angry.” But Activity Culture affects more than mental health—it also leads to less healthy eating habits.
PHYSICAL HEALTH There’s no denying youth sports many
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EXCELLENCE WITHOUT EXHAUSTION College is important, but Sarah Bernstein describes “personal branding” in her article “Elite College Admissions Have Turned Students Into Brands,” saying, “Students who brand themselves too early or too definitively risk missing out on the kind of exploration that will prepare them for adult life.” Children need opportunities to achieve, but they also need room to rest, fail, wander, and discover who they are apart from what they accomplish. “Do what’s truly going to make your family happy,” dares journalist Anna Nordberg in her article “The Parents Who Are Saying No to Activities Culture–and Why.”“If that is competitive sports, like it is for many families I know, that is wonderful. If you are a family who wants to keep to the middle road of rec sports or sandlot games, fight for that as long as you can. And if your kid wants to sit home making houses for stuffed mice out of cardboard, that’s fantastic too. There’s a college essay in there somewhere.” Remember: The goal is not to raise impressive children. The goal is to raise healthy adults.
“divide and conquer” parenting situation. The survey also reports parents average over three hours per day on their child’s sport activities, with over an hour of that devoted to attending practices and competitions. HOW SPORTS CONVEY STATUS Author Linda Flanagan argues in Take Back the Game that youth sports often become status symbols—not just for children, but for parents as well. Participation in elite sports increasingly reflects a family’s financial re- sources as much as athletic ability. THE FINANCIAL WEIGHT The 2024 National Youth Sports Parent Survey reveals that families in the sample spent an average of $1,015.64 annually on their child’s primary sport—and approximately $475 on their child’s other sports. Bill Lennon wrote in his 2017 article for Medium , “The average cost to participate on a travel baseball team is in the ballpark of $1,900, not including the actual travel costs for players and parents to attend tournaments.” Needless to say, it’s not cheap to participate in one sport, much less in multiple sports. Project Play points out many of the challenges youth sports face, including
financial, racial, gender, and recreational space barriers. Yet it’s becoming harder than ever to resist the pull to overcommit your kids. After all, the youth sports industry only continues to grow, making Activity Culture the norm—and to resist is countercultural. WHEN SPORTS STOP BEING PLAY So how do you stop the intrinsic force pulling your family into the Activity Culture vortex? Start by limiting your kids to one sport or ex- tracurricular per season. Maybe change from travel ball to rec ball for a season. Ask them which extracurriculars they love. “Don’t force your kid to do what they don’t love,” says Publisher Amy L. Foreman. “Just be- cause you loved softball doesn’t mean your kid will love it.”Will it be disappointing if they don’t choose the sport you want? Sure—but it’ll save you time, money, and stress in the long run. And even if they do enjoy it now, chances are they won’t later. “Today’s sports culture exposes children to too much, too soon,” authors of Beyond Winning: Smart Parenting In A Toxic Sports Environment write. “We want to apply the brakes a bit and give kids time to grow at a more appropriate pace.”
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Then there’s the comparison to other children and the fear of their own kids falling behind, adding even more pressure to participate. Kodi Brown, M.Ed., Ed.S., a behavior specialist and parent educator, says today’s families are facing a different kind of pressure than previous generations. “There is now enormous cultural pressure to ensure children are constantly engaged in sports, tutoring, extracurriculars, and enrichment programs,” she explains. “Parents often fear that if their child slows down, they may fall behind socially, academically, or developmentally.” Shelton shares that most parents do feel that pressure. “There’s the feeling that, ‘If I don't put them in the club sport and they don’t get that training, will they make the middle school or the high school team? Are they going to be as prepared as their friends?’ That’s a giant guess we’re making sometimes. You don’t want your kid to show up and not be ready, but looking back now, there are God-given talents some kids are going to have regardless of elite training, and so they're going to have that edge on your kid no matter what you do with your kid.” At the heart of it, most parents say yes to activities because they don’t want their children to miss out on opportunities, and they’re making those decisions with good intentions. WHEN BUSY BECOMES TOO MUCH Local mom of four Scarlett Pourciau’s children are involved in a variety of sports and activi- ties. She encourages families to be intentional about the activities they choose, trying new things while also “protecting the schedule.” When the busyness becomes too much for children, the signs are clear. She’s seen it in her own home through tears and tempers. According to Brown, “Children respond to overload in very different ways. Some children become emotionally explosive, while others completely shut down.” Brown shares some common signs to look for: meltdowns over seemingly small situations; increased irritability or emotional sensitivity; frequent frustration or anger; withdrawal or emotional shutdown; diffi- culty transitioning between activities; sleep problems or exhaustion; increased anxiety or perfectionism; complaints of headaches or stomachaches; loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed; and resistance to attend- ing practices, lessons, or events
The Overscheduled Childhood
Are We Raising Successful Kids or Stressed Out Ones? BY AMANDA MILLER | PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2025–26 COVER KID MADELINE F.
B rrring! That’s the sound of the school bell ringing, signaling the end of the school day. But for many students, it’s only the beginning of a marathon of after-school activities, sports, and enrichment programs—not to mention squeezing in homework, dinner, showers, and a full eight hours of sleep before doing it all over again the next day. This is what modern childhood looks like: jam-packed, fast-moving, and exhausting. It’s teaching them discipline, teamwork, and life skills. But it also leads us to one important question: Are we actually raising successful children, or simply stressing them out? CHILDHOOD ON A SCHEDULE Today’s children have access to a myriad of extracurricular activities. From sports and the arts to educational opportunities and school clubs, their schedules are often a beast to manage. For some families, those busy afternoons and weekends consist of baseball, basketball,
dance, cheerleading, theatre, and more, along with the countless hours of practice needed to thrive in those chosen activities. Did we mention game times too? These packed schedules create nonstop busyness and often leave families juggling unpredictable days. Michelle Shelton, a local mom of three, shares that her family doesn’t have a typical week. “It depends on what sport is in season and what activity is going on. Then you shift to the summer schedule, which can be just as crazy as to who’s going when and where. If I was going to describe a typical week, it’s a lot of activity,” she says. WHY PARENTS SAY YES There are several benefits to participating in these activities, from developing time man- agement and prioritization skills to learning teamwork. Many parents see these activities as valuable opportunities for their children to build character and grow into more well-rounded individuals.
THE ROLE OF BOREDOM & UNSTRUCTURED TIME
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