Introduction – Meeting Heather Meades
In this week’s Read and Renew Summer Program, we’re highlighting the work of Heather Meades, a mom and children’s author whose stories open the door to something many families are missing: joy that forms identity. Her books, Growing Up, Let’s Celebrate, and I Am Happy to Be With You, are more than cheerful stories. They help kids feel secure, seen, and deeply loved.
In today’s world, our children face constant messaging about who they should be, what they should do, and how they should look or act. It’s easy for them to feel lost. And it’s easy for us as parents to feel overwhelmed trying to keep up.
Heather’s books offer a different path. They show us how to slow down and give our kids something more powerful than advice. They help us offer belonging, connection, and the kind of joy that builds lasting identity.
The Unspoken Questions Kids (and Adults) Carry
Even young children have big questions in their hearts. They may not use words, but their actions ask:
“Am I good?”
“Do you see me?”
“Am I wanted?”
“Does God like me?”
You might see it when your child shows you a drawing and watches your face. Or when they try something new and ask, “Did I do good?”
In these moments, we have the opportunity to answer with our presence. Our words, facial expressions, and tone all communicate something about who they are and whether they belong. And as science and scripture both show us, belonging is not a luxury. It is essential to healthy growth.
Joy and the Brain: Why It Matters
From a neurological perspective, joy is foundational to healthy brain growth. It builds emotional strength, trust, and connection.
When children experience shared joy, like eye contact, warm smiles, and gentle affection, it shapes how their brains respond to stress, big feelings, and how they relate to others.
This kind of joy doesn’t have to be big or flashy. In fact, it’s often best when it’s in small, everyday moments:
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Laughing at a silly story together
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Holding hands on the way to school
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Taking 30 seconds to look them in the eyes and say, “I’m glad to be with you”
Heather’s books help us practice these moments. They give us words and reminders to bring joy and truth into our daily routines. This helps us build habits of connection that, over time, shape identity.
God’s Delight in Our Children
One of the best things Heather’s books remind us is this: God delights in our kids.
Not because of what they do. But because of who they are.
In church, we often talk about God’s love. But kids also need to feel His joy. They need to know they are not just accepted. They are enjoyed.
When we reflect that same joy back to our children, something shifts. A quiet smile that says, “I love how God made you,” can echo in their hearts for years.
It gives them worth that doesn’t depend on performance. It grows from connection.
3 Joy-Filled Habits That Build Identity
If you’re in a hard season of parenting, maybe feeling tired, discouraged, or unsure where to begin, these three simple habits can help:
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Celebrate Growth
Notice when your child learns something new or keeps trying. Say things like, “You worked hard on that,” or “That took courage.” These words help your child feel seen and valued.
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Affirm Their Design
Make it a rhythm to say, “I love how God made you.” Say it often. Say it when nothing “special” is happening. These words speak to their identity.
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Create Joy Rituals
Build small moments of connection that repeat. A special bedtime hug. A shared phrase. A short prayer or gratitude moment. Let your child help shape these. That makes them even more meaningful.
A Gentle Check-In for Parents
The desire to raise secure, joyful kids often meets the reality of exhaustion and doubt. If you’re coming to parenting from a place of past wounds, whether from faith, family, or community, you’re not alone.
And you are not disqualified.
Take a moment to ask yourself:
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Where can I slow down this week to notice and name joy?
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What simple ritual of connection could I try with my child? (Heather's books have a glossary of ideas in the back!)
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How can I speak words of truth and delight, even if I’m still learning to believe them for myself?
Parenting with joy doesn’t require perfection. It just asks for presence. And presence, over time, helps shape identity.
A Final Invitation
Joy is one of the most powerful gifts we can give our kids. It does not require more energy. It invites us to focus on the moments that matter most.
Heather Meades’ books are more than sweet. They are practical tools that help us build trust, nurture faith, and form identity.
And here’s something surprising. As you speak love and joy over your child, you may begin to hear it in your own heart too.
You may remember that you are seen. That you matter. That God still delights in you.
And maybe, that’s the kind of joy we all need more of.