The Thursday Update

SEPTEMBER 4, 2025

Lakeshore Friends,

As school bells ring and backpacks are zipped up, families everywhere are shifting from the carefree days of summer to the more structured pace of the school year. While this season often brings a mix of excitement and chaos, it’s also a golden opportunity to reset, realign, and rediscover the rhythms that give your family life meaning and momentum. Yes, back-to-school season is more than just sharpened pencils and early alarms—it’s a chance to cultivate habits that nurture hearts, minds, and relationships.

One of the most life-giving rhythms families can embrace this season is simply showing up—at the dinner table, at bedtime, and yes, even at church. In the hustle of practices, homework, and packed schedules, it's easy to let spiritual growth slip to the back burner. But carving out time to attend church regularly can anchor your family in ways that go far beyond Sunday morning. It’s a place where values are reinforced, community is built, and kids grow up knowing they belong to something bigger than themselves. Attending church isn’t about adding another thing to your to-do list—it’s about starting your week with intention, connection, and purpose.

This fall, consider making church attendance part of your family's weekly rhythm. Even if you're not a morning person or your Sundays have been filled with errands or sports in the past, a small shift in priority can have a big impact. In Lakeshore Kids, we are walking your kids through God’s Word in ways that allow your kids to connect what they learn to the life they are living. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence. Even showing up imperfectly teaches your kids that faith matters, and that your family makes time for what’s important.

Beyond church, this season is a great time to reestablish other family rhythms that may have slipped during summer. Try bringing back consistent mealtimes, reading together in the evenings, or having a short weekly family meeting to talk about the week ahead. These small practices create stability and connection—two things children crave as they adjust to new teachers, friends, and expectations. And don’t forget the power of rest. Protecting family downtime, especially on weekends, helps everyone recharge and reconnect.

Parents, you’ve got this. Back-to-school season can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a fresh chapter—a chance to lead your family with clarity, grace, and renewed purpose. As you juggle schedules, lunchboxes, and carpools, remember that what your kids need most isn’t perfection, but presence. With a few intentional rhythms—like regular church attendance, shared meals, and open conversations—you’re laying a foundation that will serve them for years to come.

So, take a deep breath, pack those backpacks, and step into the school year with hope. Your family’s new rhythm doesn’t have to be hectic. It can be holy. And it starts now.

Jill Freese
Children's Director