Amy Johnson, MSW, is passionate about working with children and families. For over 25 years, Amy has worked diligently to provide parents, teens, and younger youth with tools that will help them flourish and thrive physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Here are some of her thoughts on families and parenting. Her experience as a School Social Worker, Life and Parent Coach, Parent Educator, Youth Director, and Parent provide her with a depth of experience and perspective that is beneficial to all types of families.

“I believe families are important, no matter what they look like. What’s vital is the community of love, support, and learning about life that we create together. Whether you are a parent with biological, step, or adopted children, the stakes are high in today’s world to create a safe, nurturing environment where children can grow into who they are and be strong enough to make decisions free from the influences of media and negative peer pressure.

As children grow, families often become busier. I think it’s important to think about where we hope the activities that keep us busy will lead. Sometimes the sense of urgency is due to the pressure of trying to be a “good parent” and not necessarily doing what is good for our families.

I believe if we intentionally create safe and loving connections in our family and broaden that circle to include others we love and trust, we benefit not only our own families, but others who are searching for the same sense of community that many of us have lost in today’s over-crowded, high-speed, busy lifestyles.

Every family has its own gifts and its own challenges. Isn’t your family worth the investment of time and energy to get where you want to be?”