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

Customizable for in-person events, virtual groups, and podcast interviews
Retro microphone on podium in front of a sunny window - Valerie Ellis, speaker

01.

STORIES THAT STICK: GROWING WITH CHILDREN’S BOOKS

⤅

Valerie helps parents, teachers, and children’s ministers use books and personal stories to 1) connect with their kids on a deeper level and 2) help kids grow in resilience, creativity, faith, and more. Lots of children’s book recommendations and conversation ideas make it easy and fun.

02.

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.

03.

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 grow in their ability to see and share God’s love with their kids in daily routines and special moments.

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 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.

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.

Wow!!!

“The room was absolutely buzzing yesterday after Valerie’s presentation. She gave so much practical and useful information, and the conversations around the tables were rich with excitement to put into practice the things she shared.”
Rhiannon
MOPS Coordinator, Brookfield, WI

Engaging school visit

Valerie came to our school for an author visit around Christmas and the kids loved it! The way she incorporated music with her book was creative and the kids were singing the song long after she left. The visit was interactive in a way that kept everyone engaged, no matter their age, which is no small feat!
Leslie R.
Methodist Children’s Program, Pearland, TX

Let’s do it again!

We loved Valerie’s presentation! In fact, we got such amazing feedback from everyone that we’re having Valerie back to speak on another topic.
Ashley J.
The MomCo at The Woodlands First Baptist

Useful and Fun!

“Loved Valerie’s talk and got a lot out of it! In fact, I spent our entire car ride to Houston sharing with my son and telling him my stories. It was such a fun conversation!”
Angie
Friendswood, Texas

So many ideas

“I appreciated her presentation very much and wrote down a number of books she suggested!”
Danette
MOPS Mentor Mom, Wisconsin
Where will Valerie Be?

Upcoming Events, Podcasts & Media

  • Book Signing – Brazos Bookstore – Multi-Author Event for Independent Bookstore Day – PUBLIC EVENT
    2421 Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77005
    April 26, 2025, 3:30pm – 5:30pm
  • 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

JOIN THE OUR EVERYDAY PARABLES NEWSLETTER TO RECEIVE…

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.

.