Meaning. Humor. Love.

Through a mix of practical tips, laughter, and love, Valerie equips parents, teachers, and children’s ministers with useful tools and grace-filled encouragement, while inspiring authentic conversations among participants. She also does fun, interactive author visits for kids and families.

Whatcha wanna talk about?

Speaking Events & Interiew Ideas

Customizable for in-person events, virtual groups, and podcast interviews

01.

STORIES THAT STICK: GROWING WITH CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Stories are fun and memorable parts of childhood, and Valerie helps parents, teachers, and children’s ministers use them to 1) connect with their kids on a deeper level and 2) help kids grow in faith, resilience, creativity, and more. Reading tips, book recommendations, and conversation ideas make it practical and fun.

02.

Faith and Compassion in Everyday Moments

Dive into simple but creative ways to talk to kids about God in the everyday moments of life. With lots of concrete examples, Valerie helps parents and teachers grow in their ability to see and share God’s love with their kids during daily routines and convey age-appropriate biblical truths at various stages.

03.

SHARING IS CARING: Share YOUR FAITH STORY WITH YOUR KIDS AND DRAW OUT THEIRS

Explore how the right kinds of questions and storytelling can open up a world of opportunity for growing closer as a family, sharing God with our children, and helping kids better understand how God is working in their lives.

04.

SHARE THE JOY: More Christmas CARING WIthout More HusTle

Available October to December: Christmas traditions are perfect pathways to a Jesus-centered Christmas filled with big love for our neighbors (without a lot more effort). Learn easy ways to help kids show God’s love. Plus, discover Christmas books and conversation starters to help every member of the family draw closer to God and each other. Simple, inspiring, and filled with Christmas cheer–no hustle required.

05.

PERSISTENT Passion

Passion can start us on the path to God’s plan, spark creativity, and help us stay the course, but only God can keep passion from fading. Participants of your women’s Bible study or mom’s group will be inspired and challenged as they examine these truths in the life of Moses and in their own lives. Drawing on her work as a children’s author–the business side and the creative side–Valerie will encourage participants to pursue persistent passion for God and His plan for their lives.

06.

Compelling Bible Storytelling: Think Like an Author to Engage Kids in God’s Word

Drawing on tools of the author trade—such as show don’t tell, create empathy, raise the stakes, and more—children’s book author and certified teacher, Valerie Ellis, offers a creative approach to Bible storytelling. Her practical tips work in a variety of settings and include ways to support kids and families as they read the Bible on their own. Reclaim the art of storytelling and add more tools to your toolbox to help kids learn from and love God’s word!

07.

Author visits for kids & families

Create fun, memorable experiences for kids and families with an author visit! Find out more on the Books & Author Visits page or grab the author visit flyer for more info.

08.

What Else: More INTERVIEW Ideas

Any of the above topics can provide an avenue to an engaging interview-style conversation for podcast listeners or event attendees. Here are a few other things Valerie loves to write and speak about:

  • Ideas for an easier and more meaningful bedtime routine through the ages and stages
  • Playful ways to get more cooperation from toddlers and preschoolers
  • How adults can tap into the playfulness of childhood to reclaim joy and find renewed strength for all the “adulting” they have to do
  • What Valerie is learning during the ups and downs of her author journey and/or parenting journey

Where will Valerie Be?

Upcoming Events, Podcasts & Media

  • Focus on the Family Article
    June/July 2025
  • Story Time and Mini Touch-A-Truck Event – University Baptist Church
    16106 University Drive, Houston, TX 77059
    August 24, 2025, 4:00pm – 6:00pm
  • KidzMatter Conference – Breakout Session “Compelling Bible Storytelling: Engage Kids Like Authors Do to Foster a Lifelong Love for God’s Word” – Register Here
    Evansville, IN
    October 7-9, 2025
  • The MomCo at First Pres
    Colorado Springs, CO
    November 13, 2025
What’s Valerie Been Up to?

Recent Events, Podcasts & Media

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75 Book Ideas for Kids

Grab this list of fantastic book recommendations for children ages 0 to 12. Whether you want to fill your book shelves at home, buy an inspiring gift, or add value to your next library visit, this resource is sure to point you in the right direction.


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