Bethany Busy Bee Early Learning Center

Jack’s Bio

Jack Lipski, M.A., is first and foremost a husband and father. Jack met Susan when she was in third grade…they married 20 years later. Blessed with two children, Lauren and Nick, now adults, Jack and Susan have been married 33 years. Jack retired in 2020 after 44 years in education as teacher, principal, school counselor and Marriage and Family therapist. He attended the University of Colorado, where he is a Regent Scholar, and Colorado Christian University. In addition to a career in education, he has experience in court-ordered therapy, prison ministry, youth ministry, spinal cord injuries and educating kids and parents about “stranger danger.” Jack enjoys downhill and backcountry skiing, snowboarding, biking, hiking, reading, teaching a weekly Bible study, various speaking engagements and just about any activity with his family and friends.

Foreword by the Editor

When I first began the process of reading through the Jack’s Corners, my first reaction was to worry many of them were about me. Was I the strong-willed child, or the deep thinker, or the kid who was grumpy because she wasn’t getting enough food or sleep? Though I was later assured that my childhood was not the direct inspiration for many of these articles, I had stumbled onto what makes this collection compelling and important: its ability to tackle both specific situations and common problems. Even if your child doesn’t completely “fit the mold” of the one in the article, I can guarantee you’ll learn something about parenting from each and every one. Offering professional psychological and spiritual parenting advice, Jack Lipski treats each question with a combination of empathy and pragmatism. Many of the articles contain easily digestible lists, broken down into steps that parents can try with their child. Though he gives strategic advice designed to provoke change and growth, Jack never treats any problem with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead of offering prescriptive, absolute rules to parenting dilemmas, he makes suggestions and encourages parents to engage with their child on a personal level. For example, instead of uncritically stating which books are appropriate and inappropriate for children and teens, Jack invites parents to read what their children read, talk with them about the subject matter, and evaluate what might benefit their child but be too mature for another. Although parenting advice is offered by many, Jack’s provides a combination of strategic steps designed to promote change and biblical advice. However, rather than simply offering Christian platitudes, Jack’s advice frequently refers to its source: The Bible. Including verses and suggestions for future reading, each article is grounded both in solid theology and psychological practice. Instead of seeking easy or popular answers, Jack’s advice constantly convicts parents to become more involved, more selfless, and more engaged with their children. One of his most used pieces of advice—walk with your child through this trouble—reflects the core of his parenting strategy. Be there when your child needs you. Develop trust. Pray with them. Never look for a “quick fix” because it might be easier for you. As you search through the index for articles that might relate to your children and their situations, I also encourage you to read this collection widely. You will not only gain insight into the parenting of your children, but perhaps the parenting struggles your friends face with their children. Be open to grow, willing to self-reflect, and brave enough to walk side-by-side with your children as you tackle the challenges that come with being a parent.

Lauren Lipski, M.A.