Where to Find Parenting Support That Actually Helps

Ready to start a small group this Fall? Explore Connected Families small groups here. The best parenting support often comes from something simple: walking alongside one another instead of carrying the hard moments on our own. That’s the heart of today’s conversation, as host Stacy Bellward sits down with Dr. Cindy Wilson (Director of Education, Equipping, and Research) and Lori Menekheim (Ministry Partnership Manager) to explore why growing in community makes such a difference. Whether you’re a parent craving encouragement, a friend wanting to gather a few neighbors, or a church leader hoping to support families well, there’s something here for you. Much of that community can grow through Connected Families small groups, and Cindy and Lori make the case for why this Fall is the time to start one. Along the way, they share their own journeys, share a story of one group’s transformation, and practical answers about the courses, registration, and the support leaders receive.  And if the thought of leading makes you nervous, they have good news: perfection isn’t the point. Transparency and a willingness to grow together are. As Fall approaches, consider whether God might be nudging you to gather a few parents and grow in grace, wisdom, and confidence together. Listen to the full episode for the encouragement and next steps to get started. Key Takeaways: Growth happens best in community, and walking alongside other parents builds wisdom, peace, and confidence on the hard days You don’t have to be an expert to lead. Your honest, imperfect moments are often what free others to grow Practical tips for starting a group of your own, from choosing a course to the support leaders receive from Connected Families Mentioned in this Podcast:  Connected Families Small Groups Connected Families Certified Parent Coach Training Program Ministry Partnership Program Virtual Small Groups Hosted by CF Coaches The Table Monthly Giving Program cf community Membership Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting! Guest Bio: Cindy Wilson is a CF-Certified Parent Coach and a Certified Family Life Educator with 20+ years in children & family ministry and academia. As Director of Education, Equipping, and Research for CF, she helps churches, schools, and other organizations use CF resources to equip and support families in their community. She is also helping collect data to show the impact of CF resources on parents and families. Cindy lives in Florida with her husband of over 30 years. She has three adult children, one son-in-law, four grandchildren, and a farm full of animals. Lori Menikheim is a wife, mom of two strong-willed teenage girls, and Kids Ministry leader with over 15 years of experience. She is CF’s new Ministry Partnership Program Dir