In this episode of The ABC’s of Preschool, Ms. Amber reflects on the challenges of parenting during tough times and how to navigate life's unexpected curveballs. Whether you’re starting 2025 on a high note or feeling the weight of the new year, this heartfelt conversation will inspire and equip you to tackle the beautifully messy journey of parenting.

Ms. Amber shares personal stories, practical advice, and actionable tips on how to show up for your little ones even when life feels overwhelming. From finding your tribe to taking intentional time for self-care, this episode is packed with encouragement for parents navigating the hard.

[00:01 - 02:00] Welcome Back!

• Ms. Amber returns after a break, sharing how unexpected life changes often require us to pivot and adapt.

• Acknowledging the ups and downs of 2025 and how parents can prepare for the challenges ahead.

[02:01 - 08:00] Starting a New Year with Heaviness

• The reality of entering a new year with burdens rather than fresh starts.

• How to balance parenting with the emotional toll of life’s challenges, from personal struggles to global events.

[08:01 - 12:00] Protecting Your Children from Adult Burdens

• Why it’s crucial to shield young children from adult stress.

• How to handle hard emotions quietly without transferring anxiety to children.

[12:01 - 15:00] Steps to Navigate the Hard

1. Acknowledge: Admit you’re overwhelmed to avoid emotional buildup.

2. Seek Help: Therapy, coaching, or trusted friends can provide vital support.

3. Carve Out Time: Prioritize quiet moments to reflect, journal, or pray.

[15:01 - 20:00] The Power of Movement and Gratitude

• Why moving your body daily is essential for mental and emotional health.

• Cultivating gratitude even during the storm can provide perspective and hope.

[20:01 - 22:00] Celebrating the Messy Journey

• Life is beautifully messy, with highs and lows that make us stronger.

• A reminder that hard times teach resilience and gratitude for brighter days.

If you liked this episode of The ABCs of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool and the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“ Our anxiety, our stress can be so easily transferable to our children and we want to guard them and protect our children from our adult burdens.” - Ms. Amber

“ Be strong, encourage you, feed. Like positivity so then you can wake up again in the morning and show up for your kids.” -Ms. Amber

“ As parents, as adults, we are dealing with very hard things that our children do not know. -Ms. Amber

“ Bad things happen to good people all the time.”-Ms. Amber

“ Life is Beautiful, but it is also messy.”-Ms. Amber

“ I've been there. I've done that, and I will continue to be there and work through it because that's what life is about.”-Ms. Amber

“ If we don't take the breaks. If we do not take care of ourselves, it will trickle into our family.” -Ms. Amber

“ So if you're going through the heart, protect their kids, but seek help from others so you can have. Adults in your life show up for you and that you can be encouraged by others.”-Ms. Amber

“ We have to take care of our soul. We have to take care of ourself to show up well for others.” -Ms. Amber