In This House, We Will Giggle: Making Virtues, Love, and Laughter a Daily Part of Your Family Life

by Courtney Defeo

What do indoor picnics and funny face contests have to do with loving Jesus?More than you realize! As a mom in the throes of parenting, Courtney DeFeo believes that instilling virtues in children starts with laughter, not lecture. That perspective propelled her to create this idea-packed book, in which she offers motivating reflections, real-life stories, and a sandbox full of inventive ways to help you turn your kids’ hearts toward God.  Each chapter focuses on one virtue that is key for developing your child’s character. Along with insights into how this virtue plays out in the nitty-gritty of life, Courtney includes a memory verse, activity ideas, and discussion questions to reinforce that virtue throughout the month. Here you’ll find a full year of ways to draw your children closer to God through delightful antics like Family Olympics, One Fancy Feast, and Light ’Em Up. In This House, We Will Giggle shows you how to capture the hearts of your children through fun—so that they experience the goodness of Christ, the joy of following Him, and the difference they can make in the lives of others. (Water balloons not included!)

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Christian, Family, Self Help, Faith, Christian Living

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

Courtney DeFeo is a popular blogger (CourtneyDeFeo.com) and the creator of ABC Scripture Cards, which are sold nationwide. A graduate of Auburn University, she has a background in marketing and public relations and has worked for Ketchum Public Relations and Chick-fil-A. Courtney and her husband, Ron, are the parents of two young girls.

Reviews

[K White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think a lot of Christian parenting books give great conceptual topics. I walk away with big takeaways, like give them more grace, use the Bible in discipline and encouragement, be consistent, help them learn how to think and make choices... But I usually put the book down with this huge concept that is tricky to apply in the day to day trenches of parenting. This book is the perfect blend of big takeaways yet also just practical day to day application, fun activities, memory tools, etc.
This book covers 12 virtues (like humility, joy, generosity, patience, respect and more) and boils them down to a easy way to teach them to our kids and not just through a boring lecture on being more generous, but a kid-friendly definition, memory verse, and fun activities and study to do as a family around that virtue. I have read every page of the book and came away with a new excitement in my role as a mom, a new found urgency and importance to make this crucial learning fun and applicable to my kids, and an easy "attack plan" of how to do it! Love this book!!

[Stephanie Rollins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is both a practical book and an inspiration book. For those of us who like order, quiet, and routines, having a house of children can be quite a change. This book will help with that transition.



There are Bible verses, examples, short stories, and prayers in each section. There are sections on the topics of: joy, love, forgiveness, faith, patience, perseverance, respect, responsibility, service, humility, gratitude, and generosity.



This book will be great to refer back to as your children grow up. It will also make a great gift for a baby shower or for a struggling parent.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me get to the point…LOVE the title, LOVE the subtitle “Making Virtues, Love & Laughter a Daily Part of Your Family Life”, AND LOVE the cover design for Courtney DeFeo’s book, In This House We Will Giggle!!!! :) Therefore I was really excited to read this book. I DEFINITELY want more giggles in our home!

Through love and laughter, each of the chapters focus on teaching a different virtue. The virtues included are joy, love, forgiveness, faith, patience, perseverance, respect, responsibility, service, humility, gratitude, and generosity. DeFeo presents the option of focusing on one virtue each month of the year starting with Joy in January through Generosity in December. This is a great way to not feel overwhelmed but give your family time to really learn about, practice, and embrace each virtue. The chapters include a section called “catch phrase for_(the virtue)_, a memory verse for the month, a kid-friendly definition for the virtue, questions to discuss, a Bible story to read (from The Jesus Storybook Bible), activity ideas and more.

I started reading the book around the end of January, so I didn’t want to rush to start it in January. However, I loved how some of the virtues go very well with the holidays of a few of the months, such as Love in February, Gratitude in November and Generosity in December. Therefore I decided to start implementing the monthly virtue focus in order, but starting in February with the second chapter Love: Letting Concern for Others Guide Our Behavior. (We’ll go back to January at the end. Don’t want to miss Joy: When the Reality of Life Meets a Heart of Gladness!) The kids have totally jumped on board - doing chores for each other, writing notes, ….! It’s been a sweet family experience so far and we are just starting. :)

I’ll close my review with some good questions from the heart of In This House We Will Giggle by Courtney DeFeo…

“Our home, and the environment we create within our family, sets up the impression our kids will have of faith and God. Will they believe Jesus loves only well-behaved, model children, or will they know He loves them just as they are? Will they see the Christian life as a series of rules to be followed, or will they follow Jesus because they’ve learned from us what it means to love Him and find joy in being with Him?”’ -pg. 5


**I received this book from Blogging for Books for an honest review.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

So inspiring. Loved everything she said and all of her practical ideas.

[Gina Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s not that I disliked this book as that it wasn’t as applicable to my stage of life and my children’s ages. I think that IF (and I feel like this is a big if) you could read this book as a young mom and take the ideas you like and run with them but NOT feel like you had to do everything or feel guilty for things you aren’t doing or don’t get done it could be quite helpful. It’s really more about character training than anything else though I think. The author has 12 characters traits that she discusses and gives you ideas for helping your children understand and develop them. She suggests focusing on one trait each month over the course of a year. All in all it had some good reminders but it will no longer be receiving shelf space in my personal library.

[Ali Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has significantly impacted by parenting this year and helped me to embody being an intentional and fun mother.

[Gillyweed Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific book! I want to read it again in January ♡♡♡ Great book, full of ideas to teach (and reach) your children important virtues.

[Susy C. *MotherLambReads* · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 🌟 Great practical examples how to giggle w your kiddoes. Easy listen!

[Yonasan Aryeh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, as indicated by the subtitle, is about making virtues, love, and laughter a daily part of your family life. With rave reviews by Sandra Stanley, Lauren Tomlin, and Holly Furtick, this book sets out to annihilate the destructive family lifecycle of tension and stress and replace it with joy and happiness. The author meets a worthy challenge: taking the current reality of the American family and the common snapping at children for being, well, children, and transforming it into the dream model everyone imagines life with be like raising kids before they actually have kids themselves. Truth be told, this is a lesson that my family needs, and I am sure plenty of other families, religious or not, need as well.

Each chapter starts with a virtue to review and a "memory verse" that focuses on that virtue, along with lesson material for that month's study (anecdotes, references, etc.).The chapters review joy, love, forgiveness, faith, patience, perseverance, respect, responsibility, service, humility, gratitude, and generosity. Each chapter includes an activity at the end to apply the lessons learned. Each chapter, or virtue, is designed to have a whole month dedicated to it, resulting in the full application of this book taking a full year to complete. The author intentionally points out that while there are anecdotes to be shared, the book is not a book of parenting insights, but rather a regurgitation of scriptural truth. Also, throughout the book, there are sixty activities listed, based off one of the virtues, designed to elicit giggles from the family.

Overall, the content is engaging and relevant. Practical yet interactive, the author did and excellent job at approaching each virtue from a biblical perspective and addressing it appropriately and with actual measurable outcomes (in a way). The book is great for families looking to lighten up, as well as families that need some inspiration to maintain a proper silliness level. Great for dads and moms alike, I found this book informative and helpful for me, and I am sure that my wife will as well. Definitely worth checking out, for sure.

Disclosure: I was contracted to write an honest review in exchange for a copy of this book. All opinions and comments stated therein are mine and do not reflect any opinions of the author or publisher unless specifically mentioned otherwise.

[Juan Jo Ponce · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to admit that upon reading the first chapter, I thought the book will not fulfill my expectances. However, as a passionate reader, I decided to move on and give an opportunity to the book, along the rest of the chapters it had to offer.

Today, more than ever, I believe in the importance of giving an opportunity to what the development of a book can offer, (beyond the impression of its initial contribution). I got surprised when I realized the great impact the book was causing to my inner-self. Although it is supposedly directed to parents, (so they could forge the path of their children, based on biblical principles), this is a book, where adolescents and adults can learn a lot too.

The following subjects: joy, love, forgiveness, faith, patience, perseverance, respect, responsibility, service, humility, gratitude and generosity, are addressed, throughout the book.

I learned that all of these points, play a fundamental role in human development and that they will lead us through a path of grace, restoration and the pursuit of the empowerment of our essences, to leave an indelible print for ourselves, our families, friends, beloved ones and therefore, to future generations, as well.

The passionate way in which the author expressed herself about God, throughout the book, sounded beautiful to me, motivating me me to continue searching and learning from God, and everything I can learn throughout the journey of my life, by holding his hand and believing in his grace.

A book that invites you to see God's contribution from different angles and perspectives, that will lead you to grow, fulfill yourself, being happy and grateful with your beloved ones, with your environment and with every little detail, which will make big differences in expressions of love, gratitude and hope, 💖!

[Katie M. Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since intentional mothering is something I aspire to—yet often fall short in—it was refreshing to read Courtney’s practical and grace-based handbook on the subject.

Each chapter focuses on a virtue (like Joy, Forgiveness and Respect) and gives simple ideas to incorporate it into hearts and home for the month. My favorite aspects are the definitions and catch phrases that Courtney provides to help children understand and remember each virtue.

For example, the definition for forgiveness is, “erasing a wrong with love.” Some of the catch phrases are: “When we chose to restore a relationship instead of keeping track of wrongs, we show great love” or “Our choices affect others” or “Everyone makes mistakes. Should we hold on to anger or be quick to forgive?”

Courtney provides clear and encouraging guidance for building character into your children in fun, easy and lasting ways.

Some of my favorite quotes from the book:

"I realize the idea of deliberately designing opportunities to teach virtues in a meaningful way can sound less like fun and more like yet another item for your never-ending to-do list. As a mom of two little girls, I understand where most parents are sitting today. We are wiped out yet yearning for more. The urgent is pushing out important things. What matters in the next ten minutes is pulling us away from what will matter in ten years.” -Courtney DeFeo, We Will Giggle, pg. 9

“Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.” -Goethe, We Will Giggle, page 9.

Pick up this practical, grace-filled toolkit and start changing the atmosphere of your home as you teach little hearts of His love.

Thank you Courtney for this valuable resource that is helping families giggle, grow and get serious about the things that will matter ten years from now.

*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review via Blogging for Books

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this book, here is my take away: Do I pick up a book every now and then to use its suggestions? Do I toss up an occasional prayer and hope my family exhibits crucial virtues like forgiveness, generosity, gratitude, joy, respect that I say we are after? I'd actually like myself and our whole family to BE these things. Not once, not when we are trying to be "good" but more part of who we are. Hey, look at this subtitle! "Making Virtues, Love and Laughter a Daily Part of Your Family Life." Yes. That is what I pray for. What I'm after. So I bought it.

I know in my heart we must practice. These virtues don't come naturally at least in my family and I bet to most of us humans! That is why Courtney's book is so wonderfully written as well as laid out for me and my family. It is not a list of a suggestions to go-to when I feel down about behaviors. That kind of book may result in a one-time behavior change. In This House We WIll Giggle is written as more of a plan that is DO-able, aimed toward heart change: harder but worth it.

The book takes my mind and fires up the things that are already bonking around in there, organizes them into manageable pieces for me as well as practicable pieces for children. I wish we could go right to everything but they can't practice all 12 virtues at once so we CAN work on one a month, without using the word "practice" or "work" :) As the book claims, each month's suggestions really are FUN and with materials you likely already have and zero pressure to make anything look show-worthy. It's all about the end heart result. I'm so glad it came out in November when we can so easily skip over right to Christmas - we need to work on instilling gratitude to combat all the gimmes. Here we go!

I do think this book is best for those caring for children of any age but actually practicable for kids 2 and older.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was able to read an ARC of this book through Net Galley, and requested it since I have always worked to give my own five kids a magical childhood and love the idea of a book about making laughter a daily part of our family life.

I didn't realize by the title or cover that this is first and foremost a book specifically designed to teach children about Christian virtues related to scripture, God and Christ. This is not a negative thing, of course, but readers should know it in advance in case this does not match with their religious views or what they're looking for in the book. Religious teachings are part of nearly every paragraph of the book, so this would not be a good fit for families who follow other faiths or are not religious.

The author gives lighthearted ideas for ways to play and be silly, focused around 12 virtues like joy, forgiveness, faith and humility. Each chapter is interspersed with activities like playing dress up in parents' clothes from other eras, rubbing a balloon on their hair to make it stand up, playing catch the flag, seeing who can be tickled with a feather for the longest without laughing, etc. The ideas are suitable for families with young children. Each virtue is designed to be covered in one month, with a few ideas on ways to incorporate it during that month. There are 60 ideas total, such as #51: "I Spy Gratitude" where family members take turns saying "I spy with my little eye something God gave me and I am grateful," and then they take turns guessing what the person is thinking of.

The book is short, lighthearted and encouraging, with a fun format that is likely to be great for Christian families looking to put a little more joy in their homes.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life seems to get in the way of fun most times. Being a mom is hard and sometimes it's just too easy to get bogged down by all the work and not have enough play.

I knew I needed In This House We Will Giggle by Courtney DeFeo. "Making virtues, love & laughter a daily part of your family life." A reminder to make every moment count is often needed.

What I like best about this book is that it is broken down into 12 different parts...one chapter for each month. Instead of reading through a book and forgetting half of what is said this book can be gone back to time and time again throughout the year to bring a little more happiness into your home.

Each chapter focuses on one virtue. I will use November as an example. The theme this month is Gratitude. There is a memory verse, definition of the verse, Bible verses to read, questions for family discussion (such as "What are some signs that someone has an ungrateful heart?"), a pray to say aloud, an activity to do together, and several helpful hints on how to teach gratitude to the family throughout the month. It really is a month long project that should end up bring happiness, joy, and fun into your home.

Other topics include: joy, love, forgiveness, faith, patience, perseverance, respect, responsibility, service, humility, and generosity.

I also like that this book applies to all age ranges. Some projects are good for teens, some for elementary age, and some for toddlers. The whole family can learn and grow together.

Disclaimer: This book was given to me in exchange for my honest opinion by Blogging for Books.

[Kendra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the idea behind the book, but I found the storytelling repetitive. I would have enjoyed it more as a resource book, where the ideas where just given instead of the storytelling behind the ideas.
It was also written to be read throughout the year, focusing on one trait per month. I started this last May and by June, realized that by June, I forgot to read June's. I started reading it again in January and slowly worked through it, reading each section over the course of 2-3 days. I would have enjoyed it better as a yearly book it was broken up by days to read (may one day a story, another day an idea to put the trait in practice, etc...)

Overall a good book with a lot of great ideas, but not something that will stick with me through the years or I'll be eager to re-read and put the ideas in practice.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Joy is a choice and it takes practice." This is the theme of In This House, We Will Giggle.
This thought provoking workbook teaches parents how to create a family relationship that nurtures children with joy and love. 12 chapters meant to be followed over 12 months are chock full of practical, fun activities and lessons to transform the atmosphere in your home from stressful to peaceful. I recommend it not only to parents but any who want to find and create more joy in our lives that leads to more joy for those around us. I am happy that I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway and with joy I will pass it on.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Johanna Parker gives a delightful tone to Courtney DeFeo's 'In this House, We Will Giggle' presenting the voices of children and adult in a completely likeable manner. Character building parenting is demonstrated in fun and tangible ways. This book is very good as a Christian parenting character building book. As in the print edition, there are 60 fun tips given in the text, but they seem to break up the narrative. Should be an encouraging read for Christian moms and dads as they raise their children.

[Kelsey Christmas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is simply fantastic. I am a practical parent. My days consist of the same 24 hours yours does. This book has helped remind me that turning our hearts and homes to Jesus can be fun, meaningful and lifelong. So many books out there overwhelm me....like I have 48 hours in my days. But Courtney has reminded me that virtues can be taught and lived out daily for Jesus in a real life, joy filled, practical way.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have purchased so many parenting books that I read and then got rid of because they just made me feel bad about my shortcomings as a parent. The layout of this book is such that it serves as a guide, and a reference to use throughout the years. As a more serious mom I'm so thankful for all the ideas to make our home a more fun place to be. This is a must for any mother of younger children or mom to be.

[Megan Iranpour · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book for the whole year! We loved focusing on a different godly value each month. We enjoyed many of the ways to increase giggling, though we skipped some of the suggested activities that seemed they would be forced or contrived in our home. We will use this book for at least another year to come, as our two girls age, to delve deeper into the discussion topics and continue to focus on these great spiritual growth areas.

[Beth Hewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a mom of two teenagers and a preschool director, I highly recommend this book! Packed with personal stories, practical ideas and real-world application, this book will transform the way you think about everyday family life and give you the encouragement and tools you need to parent well and make an impact in your community. It's well-written, meaningful, and fun - a delightful combination!

[Allison Hendrix · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great tool to help us put the FUN back into our homes! We are intentional with so many things from discipline to routine, but often forget to be intentional creating every day memories. Courtney inspires us with practical, every day ways we can teach virtues to our children in an environment with JOY. This is a great Christmas present too.

[Deon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author introduces practical ways to teach 12 virtues. Ideas include Memory verses, Bible stories, prayers, fun activities and discussion questions for each virtue.

This was an easy to read book packed with ideas I will be using in the future.

[Corinnagoodwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

wonderful, very uplifting book.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great blogger. Sincere and motivational. Most of all real. I enjoy her ideas and choose what I can apply to my small family. Courtney is contagious.

[Amyb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the list of 60 ways to bring out the giggles! And also liked the 12 virtues she picked! Could definitely see myself using this when my little guy is older.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book. I love how the chapters are set up. The author does a wonderful job of giving ideas for families to do.

[Karlyn Hillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buy this and use it forever with every child in your life!!! It's transforming for adults too!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very practical. Great inspiration.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was easy to read and had good tips. I feel it would be more helpful when your kids are little but never too late to start to adopt these virtues. It is worth reading.