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Welcome! ❤️You’re in the right place if you’re trying to raise kids who love reading, strengthen your family relationships, and create a home where everyone feels they belong.

I’m so glad you’re here.

Hi, I'm Lauren! 👋

Helping busy moms raise readers and create connected families,

one story at a time.

Books • Connection • Family • Belonging

Because childhood is made up of ordinary moments you don't want to miss nurturing these short years to the fullest!



Inside our Connection Kit you'll discover:


25 simple ways to connect with your kids in just 10 minutes a day

Screen-free activity ideas

Conversation starters everyone will actually enjoy

Book recommendations for every age

Easy traditions your family will remember for years


Whether you're looking for belly laughs, bedtime favorites, emotional growth, hands-on learning, or the perfect gift, I've curated books and activities that inspire connection, curiosity, and a lifelong love of reading.

- explore my favorite collections -

Find books your readers will love

Let Your Book Buddy, Reid, Make a Recommendation

Select a topic to start the journey, and Reid will curate a short list of options in seconds.

- our story -

Over a decade ago, I didn’t start this journey because I loved children’s books.

I started because I was a mom who was struggling.


My oldest was three. I was pregnant with my second. My husband traveled for work, and I often felt overwhelmed, lonely, and unsure if I was becoming the mom I wanted to be.


Then one day, we sat down with a book. Nothing extraordinary. Just a story, a lap to cuddle on, and a few quiet minutes together. But those little moments became something much bigger.


Books gave us words when I didn’t have them. They sparked conversations, filled ordinary days with laughter and curiosity, and helped me create the kind of home I had always hoped for.


Today, those same books have been shared with all three of my children. And after more than a decade of helping families, my mission has become so much bigger than books.


I help busy moms create connected families through stories, play, and meaningful moments.


Because a bedtime story can become a lifelong memory. A conversation can change a relationship.


And one small moment today can shape your family’s story for years to come.

Course

- ♥️ how can i help? -

Whether you're looking for the perfect book, planning a school event, raising money for a cause you love, or wondering if this business could fit into your life,

I'm here to help.

📚 Host a Book Gathering


Gather your favorite people for a fun, relaxed event filled with book recommendations, family resources, and meaningful conversation. Plus, you'll earn free books for your family.

🏫 Bring a Book Fair

to Your School or Organization


Create an unforgettable shopping experience that inspires young readers while giving back to your school, hospital, library, church, or community organization.

❤️ Raise Money Through Books


Looking for a fundraiser families will actually love? I'll help you create a simple, meaningful fundraiser that supports your organization while putting great books into children's hands.

🌿 Build Something for Yourself


Looking for flexible work that fits around your family? I'd love to show you how I've built a business that's given me purpose, community, and the freedom to put my family first.

Haven't grabbed our free Connection Kit yet?
Simple family ideas, book recommendations, encouragement, and resources for raising readers and creating meaningful moments.

Read . Nurture . Grow .

Helping families build connection, raise readers, and create meaningful moments that last.

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© 2026 Lauren Shanks  |  The Connected Family
Independent PaperPie Brand Partner