Sanity and joy in parenting? Sounds truly wonderful! So many of us, particularly in the middle of this pandemic, struggle to know if we’re doing a good job with our kids. Our anxiousness to be all the things, and do all the things, can get in the way. We would love to be able to enjoy our kids and family more, but it seems too complicated. Sometimes even the time it takes to read a helpful book is too much time.

 Susan Groner’s book, Parenting with Sanity and Joy, is the perfect solution. This volume, divided into neat, numbered tips, is the perfect kind of book to pick up and put down whenever it’s convenient. Rather than scrolling social media, you can page through these fantastic nuggets in any order and gain wisdom and practical advice. 

Susan is a gentle, encouraging voice, telling readers: “If you find a tip that resonates with you, give it a try. If it does not work for you, let it go.” This approach is incredibly helpful, especially during a time when parents can be on the receiving end of truck-loads of guilt and shame. Susan’s approach is kind, and focuses on helping readers “relax and find more enjoyment on the route to raising resilient, self-sufficient young adults.” To parents exhausted by the past year, that sounds fantastic.

The very first tip in the book sets the tone for the rest – “Say YES with joy.” Too often, we skip the opportunity to be excited and happy with our kids when we get to tell them “yes.” I know from personal experience that the past year has been full of so many “no’s,” and this reminder was beautiful! When I get to say “yes” to my kids, it’s a wonderful moment to experience some delight together. Who could pass that up?