LCA Blog

June 2026

When I was approached to write a blog at the beginning of the school year, I felt inclined to focus on the power of outdoor play and limited screen time. Throughout this blog you will find arguments for the importance of outdoor play with limited to no screen time and the flip side you will read about the benefits of phones and tablets at an early age. For the purpose of this blog, screens will be defined as an electronic device with a display. With summer right around the corner it is my hope and prayer that you will assess the risks and benefits of screen time for your students and let them have the childhood we all had when we were in school.

In a world that is constantly buzzing with notifications, updates, and screens, it can feel almost countercultural to choose a slower, simpler path for our children. Yet, as a school counselor in a Christian community, I see daily the deep and lasting value of something beautifully ordinary: a play-based childhood - one that is not dominated by phones.

Childhood was never meant to be rushed and filled with constant stimulation.

From the very beginning, God designed children to grow, explore, and learn through wonder. When we watch a child build a fort, create an imaginary world, play house, or spend an afternoon outside, we are witnessing something sacred. Play is not wasted time - it is the work of childhood. Through play, children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, resilience, and emotional understanding. Research proves that children express themselves through play and learn how to navigate friendships, manage conflict, and experience joy. 

Psalm 127:3 reminds us, "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him." A heritage is something to be treasured, nurtured, and protected - not hurried along or handed over to devices. Through a play based childhood we are protecting and nurturing our children as the Lord has called us to do.

At the same time, technology itself is not inherently bad. Phones and screens can be useful tools when used with wisdom, balance, and healthy boundaries. Below are some ways that technology is beneficial to children:

1. Children today can use technology to help stay in contact with a trusted adult. Children may feel more secure knowing that their parent or caregiver is just a call away. 
2. Phones can also be beneficial for social connection. Through the use of phones students can interact with their friends and build relationships through group chats and communication apps. While these can provide a sense of belonging, it is important to set boundaries with your child when it comes to time spent communicating with friends.
3. It can be beneficial to have a sense of digital literacy. Introducing technology early on can give parents a chance to educate their students on online safety, healthy communication, media literacy and self control.
4. Lastly, it can help with organizational and learning skills. Knowing how to use the calendar app and set appointments or reminders when it comes to turning in homework assignments or knowing test day is helpful. In addition, there are many useful apps when it comes to education as well.

The key takeaway when it comes to the use of technology is that the existence of technology is not fundamentally bad, but it is the amount, timing, and the role it plays on our children's lives that needs to be monitored. As Christians, our highest priority should be our relationship with the Lord. While phones can be useful tools, they can become problematic when they begin to occupy a place in our hearts that belongs to God alone.

Phones, when introduced too early or used without boundaries, can expose children to pressures they are not developmentally ready to handle. Social comparison, constant stimulation, and exposure to content beyond their maturity level can quietly shape identity, self-worth, and attention in ways that are difficult to undo. Research continues to show that excessive screen time in young children is linked to higher levels of anxiety, decreased attention span, sleep disruption, and reduced social skills. 

It is also important to understand that a child's frontal cortex - the part of the brain that is responsible for thinking, memory, self-control, decision-making, and abstract reasoning - is still developing. Excessive use of cell phones, tablets, computers, and video games may interfere with the development of important executive functioning skills and can contribute to reduced impulse control, difficulty sustaining attention, and challenges with emotional regulation.

In contrast, a play-based childhood fosters:

• Stronger relationships - Children learn to communicate face-to-face, read emotions, and build empathy. Using phones and tablets too often can cause children to lack the skills necessary to have face to face communication.
• Healthier brains and bodies - Outdoor play supports physical health and cognitive development. Using phones and tablets can cause cognitive outsourcing where we rely on the device to do the thinking for us.
• Deeper faith formation - Slower, less distracted lives create space for reflection, prayer, and noticing God's creation. Being outdoors and immersing yourself in God's creation instead of a device will allow for a deeper connection with the Lord.
• Resilience and independence - Unstructured play teaches children how to cope with boredom, solve problems, and perseverance. In today's society it appears children do not know how to be bored and this is a skill that is developed through outdoor play and limited screen time. Boredom allows children to become more creative, recharges their brains and encourages self reflection.
• Creativity and imagination - Open-ended play encourages innovation, curiosity, and wonder in ways passive entertainment often cannot. 

Jesus Himself welcomed children with open arms, saying, "Let the little children come to me... for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matthew 19:14). There is something about the humility, curiosity, and joy of a child that reflects the heart of God. Protecting childhood is, in many ways, protecting that reflection.

Choosing to delay or thoughtfully limit phone use is not about fear or rejecting technology altogether - it is about intention. It is about ensuring that screens remain tools rather than replacements for connection, play, and presence. It is about allowing children to be fully rooted in the season God has placed them in.

Practical Tips for Parents Navigating Phones and Screen Time

• Delay smartphones when possible
  Consider starting with no phone or a basic phone (call/text only) for as long as possible. Not every child needs unlimited internet access at a young age. Research suggests that a smartphone should not be given to a child until the age of 14.
• Remove Social Media Apps
  Excessive social media use (more than 3 hours daily) doubles the risk of anxiety and depression in teens. While it offers spaces for self-expression and community, it drives compulsive behaviors and sleep deprivation, disproportionately affecting adolescent girls. Girls in particular struggle with body image more than boys and social media (Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, Snapchat, etc) exposes girls to an idealized image of what they should look like using filtered images causing feelings of low self worth.
• Create clear family boundaries
  Establish phone-free times and spaces - during meals, in bedrooms, during family activities and at church.
• Model health habits yourself
  Children notice our relationship with technology. Putting our own phones down communicates that people matter more than screens.
• Use screens with purpose, not just habit
  Encourage educational, creative, or faith-based uses of technology rather than endless scrolling or passive entertainment.
• Protect sleep and mental health
  Keep devices out of bedrooms at night and create a family charging station in a common area.
• Prioritize real-life play and connection
  Encourage outdoor activities, imaginative play, hobbies, sports, reading, and face-to-face friendships.
• Teach discernment, not just restriction
   As children grow, help them think critically about what they watch, who they follow, and how technology affects their mood, identity, and relationship with God. 
• Allow boredom sometimes 
  ​​​​​​​Children do not need constant entertainment. Boredom often becomes the birthplace of creativity and problem-solving.
• Have ongoing conversations
  Technology changes quickly. Keep communication open and age-appropriate rather than relying on rules.
• Pray for wisdom
  ​​​​​​​Every child is different. Ask God for discernment in knowing what boundaries and freedoms are healthiest for your family. 

Before you make the decision to introduce a phone to your child I encourage you the reflect on these questions:

• Can my child handle limits well?
• Do they show honesty and responsibility?
• Can they accept "no" without major conflict? 
• Are they emotionally mature enough for online interactions?
• Do they understand privacy and safety?
• Is the phone needed for logistics, or mainly for entertainment/social media?​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​As parents and educators, we have the opportunity to model a different way. We can prioritize family conversations over constant notifications, outdoor adventures over endless scrolling, and meaningful connection over distraction. Technology can be a helpful tool, but it should never replace the beauty of a child fully engaged in real life.

Childhood is fleeting. The days of sidewalk chalk, backyard games, tree climbing, and make-believe pass more quickly than we expect. May we guard these years with wisdom and grace, trusting that in doing so, we are laying a strong foundation - not only for healthy development, but for a life that seeks and knows the Lord.  

Erica Bush, Clinical Counselor 
ebush@libertychristianacademy.org

May 2026

A May Message from Amanda Cecil, Head of School

May is a season of reflection. 

As another school year draws to a close, I find myself thinking about the moments that have shaped this year at Liberty Christian Academy - moments of growth, perseverance, celebration, and faithfulness. From preschool classrooms to high school graduation preparations, from chapel worship to athletic competitions and student activities, God has continued to move in and through our school community in powerful ways.

This year has been filled with momentum.

We have watched students grow not only academically, but spiritually and personally as they learn what it means to follow Christ fully in every area of life. We have celebrated accomplishments in the classroom, on the stage, in athletics, and in service to others. We have seen students lead with courage, kindness, responsibility, and faith.

At the same time, God has continued to open doors for the future of Liberty.

As our elementary addition nears completion this summer, we are preparing new spaces that will allow us to serve more students and families for years to come. Across campus, updates to our facilities, refreshed branding, and continued campus improvements all reflect something deeper than construction projects, or cosmetic changes. They reflect our commitment to building environments where students can thrive spiritually, academically, and relationally. 

Because while spaces matter - students matter more. 

Every classroom, hallway, athletic field, and gathering space represents an opportunity to shape hearts and minds for Christ. Our desire has never been simply to grow larger. Our desire is to steward well the opportunities God is place before us as our community continues to grow around us. 

As someone who once walked these same halls as an LCA student, this season is especially meaningful to me. I have the privilege of watching the next generation experience the same Christ-centered foundation that impacted my own life years ago. Now, together, we are preparing students to stand firm in truth, lead with conviction, and shine brightly in a changing world. 

One of the most exciting parts of this year has been continuing to strengthen the support systems around our students and families. The addition of our new Director of Intervention is helping us expand our vision for student support and create pathways for even more students to flourish at Liberty. We are committed to meeting students where they are and helping them grow into who God created them to be.

As we celebrate the close of this school year, I want to thank our incredible teachers, staff, parents, students, alumni, donors, and supporters. Liberty Christian Academy is more than a school. It is a community united around a shared mission: patenting with families to equip students to know Christ and make Him known. 

The future ahead is exciting.

Not because of buildings or programs alone, but because of what God is building in the lives of students every single day.

The best is still ahead. 

Amanda Cecil, Head of School
acecil@libertychristianacademy.org

April 2026 

Because He Lives

Easter is one of the most celebrated holidays in the life of a Christian. During Easter, we rejoice in the empty tomb, sing songs of hope and victory, reflect on the cross, and celebrate the extraordinary truth that Jesus is alive. Easter is the foundation of Christianity--God loved us so much that He sent His Son to experience a terrible death and a miraculous resurrection, so that we could be forgiven and live in relationship with Him. Now and into eternity.

But once the celebrations end, Easter dinner is over, the decorations are put away, and the schedule returns to normal, an important question remains:

What does the Resurrection actually mean in our everyday lives? Does it change anything?

For our students, life is filled with very real challenges—fear of failure, pressure to perform, questions about identity, and the constant comparison that comes from living in a media-dominated world. As adults, we face pretty much the same challenges. The message of Easter was never meant to remain contained with a single Sunday in spring. The Resurrection speaks directly into our daily struggles with a message of grace, hope, and love.

Grace meets us.

The power of the Resurrection wiped away the debt of sin for those who believe in Him. (John 3:16) That resurrection power also meets us when our human frailty creeps in as we walk through life experiences. (I Corinthians 6:14) Failure can feel defining, especially for a child or teen still discovering who they are. A bad grade, a poor decision, or a broken relationship can quickly become a label they carry.

But the Resurrection tells a different story.

The same power that raised Jesus from the dead also speaks life into our failures. In Christ, mistakes are not the end—they are places where grace meets us. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10) Our students need to know that they are not defined by their worst moments, but by the redeeming love of a risen Savior.

Fear doesn’t win.

Many students quietly carry anxiety—about grades, friendships, the future, or not measuring up. The Resurrection reminds us that fear does not have the final word. (2 Timothy 1:7; Psalm 27:1)

When Jesus rose from the grave, He defeated the ultimate source of fear: death itself. That means our students can live with courage, knowing that no circumstance is beyond God’s power. Because Christ is alive, we are never alone, and we are never without hope. (Isaiah 41:10, Romans 15:13)

We are loved.

One of the greatest challenges students face today is understanding who they are. We adults often experience the same challenges. Culture offers constantly changing answers, often rooted in performance, appearance, or popularity.

The Resurrection anchors identity in something unchanging. A Savior willing to lay down His life for humankind is a love given freely and fully--no matter who you are or what you have done. This love was shouted to the world through the Resurrection. In the presence of His love, culture’s standards of identity are shattered.

Because Jesus lives, our identity is secure in Him. We are known, loved, and called His. This truth frees students from striving to prove their worth and invites them to live from a place of love and belonging instead of insecurity.

Live as people of the resurrection.

The Resurrection is not just something we celebrate at Easter—it is something we LIVE.

To be “people of the Resurrection” means we carry hope into discouraging situations, extend grace when others fail, and walk in the confidence of who we are in Christ. It shapes how we respond to stress, how we treat others, and how we see ourselves. And, people of the Resurrection share that good news to everyone they can.

At school and at home, we have the privilege of helping students connect this truth to their everyday lives:

• When they fail, we point them to grace.
• When they feel afraid, we remind them of God’s presence and the hope He brings to us.
• When they question their worth or if they are loved, we anchor them in Christ.

Accept the invitation.

The empty tomb is not just a past event—it is a present reality.

Each day is an invitation for our students—and for us—to live in the power of the Resurrection. Not perfectly, but faithfully. Not without struggle, but with unshakable hope.

Because Jesus is alive, hope is alive. And that changes everything. Go and share the good news.

 

Melanie Gilliland, Director of Spiritual Guidance
mgilliland@libertychristianacademy.org

 

 

 

February 2026

In a world that consistently seems to somehow get smaller and smaller yet more and more disconnected, athletics, alongside the church, are one of the most natural places that true community still forms. It is a safe haven where people of all different background, opinions, and perceived status can come together and unite in pursuit of one common goal.

Long seasons filled with practices, games, travel, wins, losses, late nights, and rollercoaster of emotions can bring people together more quickly than most things can. This community doesn't come from just wearing the same colors, though. It comes from a daily commitment to being there for each other, especially when it's not convenient.

In Galatians 6:2, we're instructed to "carry one another's burdens." In the context of sports that may look like picking up a teammate after they fall, being patient when they keep making the same mistake, encouraging them when they fail, or still giving your all to the team even when you've had a really tough week. All those little daily moments add up over time and they matter more than most people realize.

Community is most evident and powerful when it costs something. This is also what makes it so valuable when you are the one whose burdens are being carried. It's easy to be there for each other when things are going well. The true test is when losses come.

Pain, unmet expectations, and changing roles can put strain on any relationship, but it is also where the strongest bonds get even stronger. If you put in the work to develop deeper connections even when things on the surface seem fine, it will pay huge dividends as you watch your team navigate through adversity in harmony. 

This is an area where athletics teach us a principle that will change our lives if we grasp it. We were never meant to walk through life alone. As much as we need others, they need us too. Sports teach us to show up and be there for each other even when we don't feel like it. They teach us that even if we don't agree with or like someone we can still work side by side striving for the same purpose. We learn to stay committed and be part of something bigger than ourselves.

Sports may be "just a game," but they have a powerful way of revealing and teaching simple yet powerful truths about how we were created to live. When individuals choose to put others before themselves, carry each other's burdens, sacrifice their own comforts, and consistently show up, a community is built that will withstand any hardship.

These lessons don't end when playing days come to an end. As Christians, if we take these qualities to heart and always remember the ultimate goal that we are working towards, the world will be radically changed. Helping others meet Jesus is much more than a game. It's our ultimate goal. And it can only be reached if we are will to work as a team. 

Austin Caldwell, Athletic Director
acaldwell@libertychristianacademy.org

 

January 2026

Because we trusted God.

March, 2013. We had been teaching for four years at this point and were getting established in our respective schools. Owned a house in the city where we worked, and I could walk to work. We were pursing our Master's degree in Special Education through Liberty University. We were content with our lives, even though there had been turmoil in our children's lives; things were settling down. A new equilibrium was being established.

Then, the unthinkable happened, and one of our sons died. Our way of life was upended, and there was nothing certain in our lives, except our faith in God. What followed was a dark year full of grief and paralysis. 1 Peter 1:6-7 states, "In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."

But God knew what He had in store for us and how He would use this loss to change us and grow us to His purpose. We went to the campus of Liberty University, and in our very first class, our professor, Dr. Smith, stated he had a friend coming from China who was looking for teachers to teach overseas. Debby and I looked at each other and knew that was God's purpose for us. We spoke to the superintendent, and he explained there were schools in China and the U.A.E. (United Arab Emirates). Debby felt the call for the post in the U.A.E., but I said no (not listening or trusting God entirely at this point). 

Originally intending to embark in August 2014 for Chengdu, a seaside resort city in NE China, we had to postpone due to low enrollment. In January, they called and asked if we would be willing to go to Wuhan. We said yes, then looked at a map. Wuhan was in the middle of China, south of Beijing. Slightly disheartened (after all, it wasn't a seaside resort city), we set ourselves to prepare for departure. What followed was a fantastic adventure that spanned. ten years, three continents, countless countries, endless adventures, and amazing friendships with memories to last a lifetime. 

Isaiah 48:10 states, "I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction." Even with our incredible time in China, it was not without its own trials and tribulations. We were illiterate, as everything was in Chinese. We had to learn the basics of Mandarin quickly to be understood when going to the market. I had a knee replacement and was then diagnosed with cancer while in China. So many things, but through it all, we trusted God.

Following the cancer treatment, we had to come home for a year. Then God called again. So, off we went to the U.A.E., a Muslim country, and nowhere I wanted to be. But, you only say no to God once if you're smart. I keep thinking of Job. I was wrong. We were there for three years, and those were some of the best years of our careers and lives. I was renewed and took the words of 2 Corinthians 16-20 to heart, "So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God."

Trusting in God and His purpose can be the hardest thing for some of us. We can be too individualistic, too independent, or too stubborn. But the last tens years have taught me to truly lean into God and trust Him, especially during times of transition or change. (Especially when it's not the change or transition I wanted.) My prayer for you as we enter this new year is that when God calls on you to change, to make that transition you may not want to make, lean into God, trust in God, and know that He has a purpose for you, and to feel peace from that knowledge. 

Ric Cattell, Director of Curriculum
rcattell@libertychristiancademy.org

 

December 2025

 As we find ourselves in the midst of this Christmas, our hearts naturally turn toward celebrations, decorations, traditions and giving. We enter the busy season of lists, planning, and juggling commitments. These are beautiful parts of the season but as a school community grounded in faith, we should also be reminded of the true reason we celebrate.

"Behold, the virgin will conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14

The name Immanuel in Hebrew means "God is with us," and Isaiah's promise signals that the presence of God will bring salvation to His people. Christmas is the celebration of God stepping into our world. Jesus came near as a baby. He lived among us. He entered into our brokenness with hope, light, and salvation. This truth should change everything about how we live and how we celebrate. 

Intentionality With Our Families

This Christmas season reminds me of the powerful opportunities we have to be intentional in our homes. While gifts and gatherings are joyful, the greatest gift we can give our children is a clear example of what it means to live for Christ every day. As parents and grandparents, we have the privilege to set aside intentional moments as a family to pray together, read Scripture, and reflect on the story of Jesus' brith. We can be intentional to let our children hear us speak about why Christmas truly matters. We can show them ways to share the gospel message this Christmas.
 

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord." Luke 2:11

Being a Blessing to Those in Need

Jesus came as a gift to the world and we are called to live as gifts to others. This season is a time to look beyond ourselves and actively seek out ways to bless those in need. Whether it's giving to a family in need, serving in your community, writing encouraging notes, or simply showing kindness to a neighbor, small acts can carry great impact. 

          "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others." 1 Peter 4:10

Encouraging One Another in Love

In our homes and classrooms, we want to be intentional about building one another up. Encourage your children to look for ways to show kindness, patience, forgiveness, and compassion. These moments teach them how to reflect on the heart of Christ every day, not just at Christmas. 

       "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrew 10:24

Sharing the Greatest Story Ever Told

The Christmas story is the greatest message of hope the world has ever known. This season provides natural, meaningful opportunities to share the gospel with neighbors, family members, classmates, and friends. Let our words and actions point clearly to Jesus.

At school, we are encouraging our students to look for ways to serve, to speak life, to include others, and to love boldly because that is exactly what Christ did for us. 

As we enter this Christmas season, may we slow down, focus our hearts, and remember that God is with us. May our homes, our classrooms, and our community reflect the love, light, and hope Jesus Christ.

         "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given..." Isaiah 9:6 

From our school family to yours, we pray you experience the intentional joy, peace, and wonder that only Christ can bring this Christmas.

 

Mary Glenn, Elementary Principal
mglenn@libertychristianacademy.org