Creating "Thoughtful Homes"
In the busyness of daily life, it’s easy to move from one task to the next without much reflection. But a truly flourishing home isn’t built on routine alone—it requires thoughtfulness, intention, and a clear sense of purpose.
In her new book, The Thoughtful Home, Dia Boyle reminds us that those who care for their families are more than just doers of daily tasks; they are the architects of the home, shaping an environment where love, growth, and belonging can thrive. “We are the ones who are paying attention to and thinking about our families, who are trying hard to figure out what they need to thrive, and to find ways to meet those needs.”
We've been reflecting on this topic and wanted to share some food for thought for anyone who's interested in reading Dia's book. Here are some things to consider before diving into The Thoughtful Home!
Defining the Values of Your Home
Every home has a culture, whether intentional or not. The question is: What kind of atmosphere do you want to create? Take time to reflect on the values that matter most to your family. Is it hospitality? Kindness? Prayer? Hard work? Gratitude? Writing down a few guiding principles can bring clarity and direction to everyday life.
Thoughtfulness in Action
Once your values are clear, small, intentional habits help bring them to life:
Make space for reflection.
Be present. Thoughtfulness means paying attention—to the needs of your children, to the emotions behind your spouse’s words, to what God is calling you to in each small moment.
Create meaningful traditions as a family.
Lead with love. Make sure each member of your family feels secure by giving lots of hugs, telling them how much you love them, and providing a space where they can speak openly and honestly with you.
In a world that moves fast, choosing to be thoughtful is a quiet yet powerful act. By being intentional in our homes, we create spaces where our loved ones not only live but thrive.
What small step can you take today to bring more thoughtfulness into your home?
An Excerpt from
The Thoughtful Home
"Those of us who are involved in the care of the family, who are reading this book because we sense the importance of the home to those we love, know who we are and know what we are…We are the agents of the home, its designers, producers, and keepers. Woman or man, traditional or trailblazer, as uncomfortable as our society is with the term, we are the homemakers."
The Thoughtful Home by Dia Boyle
Helping Children Slow Down and Build Strong Values
In a world filled with constant noise, screens, and endless activities, it can be difficult for children to pause, reflect, and truly absorb the values that shape a meaningful life. As parents, we can cultivate moments of stillness and intentionality in our homes—giving our children the tools to grow into thoughtful, grounded individuals. Here’s how:
1. Model Reflection Yourself
Children often learn more from what they see than what they are told. If they see you taking time to reflect—whether through prayer, journaling, or meaningful conversations—they’ll understand the importance of slowing down and thinking deeply.
2. Create Quiet Moments in the Day
Build small pauses into your family’s routine. Morning or evening prayers, gratitude lists at dinnertime, or even a few minutes of silent reading help children learn to embrace stillness and reflection.
3. Encourage Conversations That Go Beyond the Surface
Ask your children open-ended questions:
What was the best part of your day?
Did anything challenge you today?
How did you show kindness to someone?
4. Instill the Habit of Gratitude
A simple gratitude journal or a “thankful jar” where kids write things they’re grateful for can shift their focus from distractions to appreciation. Teaching gratitude fosters contentment and mindfulness.
5. Teach Decision-Making Through Core Values
When your child faces a choice, guide them in asking: Is this honest? Is this kind? Is this helpful? Helping them connect decisions to values builds a strong moral foundation.
6. Limit Over-Scheduling
It’s easy to fill every moment with activities, but children need downtime. Allow for unstructured play, creativity, and moments of boredom—these often lead to the best reflections and discoveries.
7. Serve Together
Acts of service reinforce strong values in a tangible way. Volunteering as a family or simply making meals for a neighbor teaches children that life isn’t just about productivity—it’s about love and generosity.
Helping children slow down and be reflective doesn’t mean making life dull—it means giving them the tools to find meaning in the ordinary and wisdom in the quiet.
