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Jean G. Fitzpatrick

Beliefnet Columnist

Jean Grasso Fitzpatrick is the author of three books on the spiritual development of children, including "Once Upon a Family: Read-Aloud Stories and Activities That Nurture Healthy Kids," "Small Wonder: How to Answer Your Child's Impossible Questions About Life," and "Something More: Nurturing Your Child's Spiritual Growth." Her writing has also appeared in numerous national magazines, including Family Circle, McCall's, Parents, and Working Mother. A member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, she maintains a private practice and offers workshops and lectures on family spirituality. Jean is a member of the Episcopal Church. She has a website at www.pastoralcounseling.net

Columns and articles by Jean G. Fitzpatrick

Wild About Harry Jul 9, 2007
Without fantasy, we lose our capacity to approach God with the trust, wonder and honesty of children.

Starving Body, Starving Soul Dec 3, 2003
The desire to look like a fashion model has bred a dangerous cult of dieting.

The Best Holiday Lessons Nov 19, 2003
Tacking up menorahs and Santa is, well, tacky. But religious symbols can find a meaningful place in public-school classrooms.

After the Attacks...Counseling? Sep 20, 2001
There is no 'quick fix' for suffering, but sometimes we really do need the kind of help therapy can offer.

Matthew and the Swimsuit Issue Mar 21, 2001
How should a feminist mom react to her son's enchantment with the popular bikini-babe feature?

What's Inside the Package? Jan 24, 2001
Remember what really counts when applying to college.

How Kids Learn Gratitude Nov 7, 2000
There are simple ways to cultivate your child's natural thankfulness.

Fathers and Spirituality Oct 20, 2000
Why are dads often silent when it comes to sharing their religious views with kids?

Whose Body (and Baby) Is It? Oct 5, 2000
In a bizarre case with religious freedom overtones, the government stands poised to remove a baby from its mother at birth

Casseroles on the Doorstep Aug 15, 2000
In a time of need, a mother realizes how important it is for her kids to be embraced by a faith community

The Spiritual Life of Kids Jul 26, 2000
Young children have a spiritual hotline to the divine presence. Just listen...

Money Talks...With Teens Jun 13, 2000
The problem isn't that kids want too much. It's that they dream too little

Too Busy for God? Apr 27, 2000
Between work and child care, women are stressed enough as it is. Why should churches add to their burden?

Toss the Pill, Spare the Child Mar 21, 2000
What's the best way to get your kid to sit still? Create a Sabbath state of mind

Candlelight Dec 14, 1999
In the midst of the busy holiday season, our Advent wreath helps us stop time and reflect.