Growing Great Kids by Kate Battistelli was not what I expected nor did I imagine the impact it would have on me. This is not your typical parenting book. Kate talks about her experiences of raising Grammy-nominated, Christian contemporary singer-songwriter daughter, Francesca Battistelli, and how we as parents need to partner with God to catch His vision for our children. Our job as parents is to seek His will, cover our children in prayer, and encourage them along the path God has for them.
As I read through this book, I continually saw myself in her words. Not as the parent, but as a child my Heavenly Father wanted to encourage. A gentle prodding from Him to rise up to what He has called me to, and use those gifts He has blessed me with. I kept thinking, this isn’t about me. He faithfully answered with a yes it is. So I soaked in her words. Words I needed to hear. Words I need to apply.
Secondly, is the clear call as a mom to six wonderful children. I need to seek His plan for their lives (even my married daughters), and how best to encourage each one to follow His leading. Out of six children, I’ve only had a clear insight into one of them in this area. It’s time I pray purposely for each one. To come along side them as God directs.
Thirdly, this book inspired me to a more authoritative prayer life. There is power in prayer, power in Jesus’ name, and I have forgotten that in the busyness of the day to day. Something I will be quick to remedy.
Fourthly, her thoughts on the power of a parent’s words hit me square between the eyes. I have thrown word darts at my children on occasion. I know better. I have felt my own sting from such darts. I needed this reminder to speak life only. To remember the power of words clearly shown to us through the bible.
This book has freshly encouraged me in my own giftings, as a mom, and as a child of God. Growing Great Kids is recommended for moms, but anyone who is in a position to impact children, would benefit from this book. And if your own giftings have slipped into the background, I daresay this book will make you think, too.
Kate Battistelli is a wife, author, speaker, former Broadway actress, and mom to one of Christian music’s most celebrated new recording artists, Francesca Battistelli.
Kate currently volunteers at ESTHER Single Mothers Outreach and is thoroughly enjoying her newest role as grandmother to Francesca’s first child, Matthew Elijah.
I want to share a quote from Kate’s Meet Kate page: “You know that crazy idea you have right now? The one that’s way too big for you? The God-sized one? That’s Him, divinely nudging you. Take the plunge! Follow through, make the phone call, start the business, go back to school, change your diet. Do it. If you fall flat on your face, so what? What if you don’t? What if it is God and He has a huge plan just for you?” Something else I needed to hear. You can learn more fun facts about Kate by clicking the link to her page.
Besides her website, you can also find Kate on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube where she’s interviewed by Today’s Issues. If you’d like to learn more about Francesca, check out Francesca’s website. Take a peek at her videos to hear some of her songs.
Growing Great Kids is available in many bookstores and major retailers for $14.99. In Kate’s online shop, you’ll find discounted and autographed copies of her book. Or purchase them from Amazon, Christianbook.com, Barnes&Noble, or your favorite online retailer.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew. The amazon link is an affiliate link, and if you choose to purchase through that link, I will receive a small compensation. You can read my full disclosure policy here.