5–Minute Parenting: Tips to Help You Raise Competent, Godly Kids.

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Today's special guest is Terri Hellerd-Brown. Terri is not only an accomplished author, but also a podcast host with a passion for helping parents disciple their children. Her latest book, “Up, Down, and All Around: A Handbook for Discipling Our Children Based on Deuteronomy 6,” offers 52 devotions, 52 parenting tips, and 52 object lessons designed to make spiritual concepts tangible for young minds.

Why Use Object Lessons to Disciple Your Kids?

1.Jesus used object lessons, so we are following his example
2.An object lesson can help make difficult concepts more concrete
3.It allows them to play out scenarios and ideas in a real time example
4.It appeals to children’s curiosity
5.An object lesson often touches on humor or surprise
6.It is memorable
7.It involves parents and children actively engaging together

For more info on Terri and her other books, visit her website.

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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We're excited to share our latest episode featuring Joyce McCullough, an award-winning educator and author, who offers insightful tips to help children deal with grief and loss. Her debut picture book, "Look for the Pink Ribbons," beautifully tackles this delicate subject with hope and compassion.

In this episode, Joyce discusses five key points to guide parents in supporting their children through difficult times:

1. Emphasize Hope: The overarching message of Joyce's book is hope, emphasizing the promise of life after death and the new life offered through faith.
2. Focus on Positivity: Encourage children to find joy in life's daily wonders and help them to see the beauty in the world, shifting focus away from fear and grief.
3. Share Hope with Others: By helping others, children can find comfort and lift their spirits, especially in times of widespread tragedy.
4. Express Grief Creatively: Assist children in expressing their emotions through writing or drawing, allowing them to communicate their feelings and find solace.
5. Explore Concepts of Heaven: Encourage children to imagine and describe what heaven might be like to help them process their grief and envision a positive future.

With the recent tragedies and challenges our world has faced, this episode couldn't be more timely. Joyce's insights will not only aid your children but can offer a valuable lesson for adults too. Listening to her compassionate approach could very well be the comforting guide you need in helping your child through their journey of understanding and coping with loss.

Find out more about Joyce and her book on her website.

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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Today's guest, Kayla E. Green, shared with us how important it is to know what our children consume from media. She emphasized how the content they engage with greatly impacts their development and worldview. Kayla shared from 1 John 2:16, emphasizing the importance of consuming media that aligns with godly values.

Kayla shared studies that highlighted how excessive exposure to media can lead to distractions, mental health struggles, and exposure to inappropriate content. She also shared a personal story of a parent who (unknowingly) allowed her nine-year-old daughter to read an adult novel with inappropriate content. In today's culture, it's so easy for children to stumble upon material not meant for their age group. For this reason, parents must be actively involved in monitoring and engaging with the media their children engage with. From books to music to TV, it's crucial to guide them toward wholesome, age-appropriate content.

 In a world where the media landscape is rapidly evolving, our guidance has never been more critical. Let's encourage open conversations with our kids, create a fun environment, and lead them toward media that uplifts, inspires, and aligns with our values.

Be sure to visit Kayla's website to find out about her writing upcoming book. 

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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Today's special guest is Cheryl Schuermann, an award-winning author, a mom to four boys and a grandmother to 13 grandchildren. Before she became an author, she had a professional career in literary education, consulting, and staff development training. Her debut devotional, "Farmhouse Devotions, God's Glory and the Ordinary," released in May from Bold Vision Books, and was recently named the 2024 Golden Scroll Devotional Book of the Year.

Key Takeaways:
Cheryl shares ways parents and grandparents can help ground their children in faith by demonstrating key theological truths about God in practical ways children will understand.

1. Teach about the Creator God - Establish the authority of God in a child's worldview by marveling at God's attributes through nature and creation.
2. Model how to run to the rock - Demonstrate the stability and refuge found in a relationship with God who never changes.
3. Show them Jesus - Create a home where righteousness dwells and model patterns of righteous behavior for the generations to come.

For more info on Cheryl and her books visit her website.

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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Today's guest is Alyssa Avant. She is a Christian author, podcaster and virtual assistant. Alyssa and her husband have a teenage son and daughter as well as a 20-year-old son. Today she is sharing three tips to teach your teens about what to avoid on social media. 

1. Social Media is Forever: Alyssa emphasized the importance of thinking before posting, sharing, or commenting on social media. She highlighted the long-term implications of online content and how it could impact future opportunities, such as job prospects. 
2. Be Careful Who You Talk To: With her own daughter's safety in mind, Alyssa underlined the need to exercise caution when interacting with individuals online. She advises her daughter about setting boundaries, such as restricting public access to certain social media accounts and being selective about who to connect with. Alyssa shared real-life incidents to highlight the potential dangers and risks associated with online interactions.
3. Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Alyssa stressed the importance of safeguarding personal information, such as phone numbers, addresses, school details, etc., from being publicly disclosed on social media. She reiterated the potential threats posed by malicious individuals who could exploit such information for harmful purposes.

Find out more about Alyssa and what she offers as a virtual assistant on her website.

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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Today's guest on 5-Minute Parenting is Michelle Lazurek, a multi-genre award-winning author and mother, who shares her wisdom on leaving a legacy of faith to our children. Michelle's insights and personal experiences shed light on practical ways parents can cultivate a lasting impact on their children's spiritual journey.

Key Takeaways:

1. Differentiate Sunday from the everyday: Help children discern between worldly values and spiritual truths. Emphasize the importance of being part of a local church community and integrating faith into everyday life.

2. Be the example: Parents need to lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to spiritual growth and a genuine faith journey. Children absorb and emulate what they see in their parents, making it crucial to be intentional about living out and sharing one's faith.

3. Let them be them: Allow children to explore their faith and individuality without imposing expectations. Encourage open communication, address their doubts, and empower them to make their own choices in their spiritual journey.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this important conversation and hope that these insights provide meaningful guidance to all the parents out there. Let's continue to support each other as we navigate the beautiful yet challenging journey of parenting.

Check out Michelle's website and her new book, "Hall of Fame."

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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In this episode of 5-Minute Parenting, former high school teacher and author Patty LaRoche joins us to discuss the crucial topic of raising children who understand their immeasurable value. Patty shares insightful stories from her experiences in the classroom, providing valuable tips and advice for parents navigating the challenges of instilling confidence and self-worth in their children. From addressing the devastating effects of social media on kids' self-image to combating bullying and even delving into the fight against sex trafficking, Patty offers a wealth of knowledge and practical wisdom.

Key Takeaways:

1. Teach Children Their Intrinsic Worth: Discussing the alarming lack of confidence and self-worth in students, Patty emphasizes the importance of guiding children to find their value in their unique gifts and not in comparison to others.

2. Stand Against Bullying: Sharing a powerful incident in a middle school classroom, Patty highlighted the need to empower children to stand up against bullying and defend those who are targeted, reinforcing the message that no one has the right to diminish another's worth.

3. Combatting Social Media Impact: Reflecting on the detrimental effects of social media on children's self-esteem, we explored the urgent need for parents to instill a sense of worth and confidence in their children outside of online validation.

Check out Patty's website and her book "A Little Faith Lift."

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

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As parents and grandparents, we need to be praying for our children and grandchildren everyday and teaching them how to pray and put on the spiritual armor of God. As they begin a new school year, let’s pray together for them today. 

 10 Prayers for Our Children and Grandchildren as They Go Back to School:

Lord, we ask that our children:
1.Be keep safe physically, spiritually and emotionally while in school.
2.Develop discernment and stand firm for what is right and refuse what is wrong.
3.Develop a strong and healthy self-image and self-confidence.
4.That they would treat others with respect and obey the authorities in their life.
5.Recognize that You created them and have a plan and purpose for their lives.
6.Discover their God-given gifts and talents.
7.Be motivate, disciplined and challenged in their learning experiences.
8.Choose their friends wisely—help them find Christian fellowship.
9.That that would have teachers who would be good examples for them.
10.That they would have a peaceful classroom where they can learn.

We also need to pray for our schools:
1. Lord, place a hedge of protection and blessing around our children's schools. Send your angels to guard them from any violence or evil acts.
2. Make our schools a place where students and teachers are kind and forgiving.
3. Teach all the students at the school to obey and respect the principal, teachers, coaches, and other adults at school. 
4. Protect our children from forming unhealthy relationships with people who will mislead them into wrong choices.
5. May every student and teacher at my child's school come to know the truth about you and be saved.

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of 5-Minute Parenting, we're joined by special guest Melinda Poling, a mother of 8 sons and one daughter, who has homeschooled all of her children. Melinda shares her insights into the simplicity of homeschooling and the core values that have guided her family over the past 25 years, emphasizing the importance of love, ministry, flexibility, and consistent devotion to God. Her story is a testament to the power of a holistic approach to education and family life.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace a Lifestyle of Learning: Greet God first thing in the morning, make time for hearty breakfasts, scripture discussions, and deliberate study time. By establishing a daily rhythm, you provide stability for your children.

2. Flexibility and Commitment: Homeschooling allows the flexibility to meet urgent family needs while remaining committed to the core values of love, faith, and service. Encourage your kids to soak up Christ and provide time for reading, journaling, and creative endeavors.

3. Nurturing Responsible, Well-Rounded Adults: Through intentional teaching of faith, public speaking, and life skills, homeschooling lays the foundation for responsible citizens, genuine followers of Christ, and hardworking individuals equipped for a productive life.

Check out Melinda's website for free downloads for moms and kids.

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...

Send us Fan Mail

Our guest speaker today is a retired homeschooler with 17+ years of experience in home educating their four children and 10 years of experience as a homeschool consultant, blogger, writer, and speaker. Kris shared with us valuable tips for parents and teens on planning the high school years from setting goals, nurturing character development, financial planning, time management, to finding a career that fits each individual's unique skills and interests.

Two of Kris's newest resources for teens include:
(1) Navigating High School Student Guidebook
(2) Navigating High School Priority Planner

Key Takeaways from the Podcast:

1. Goal Setting and Prayer: Take time to sit down with your teen and discuss their goals for the future, including character development, spiritual growth, and academic objectives. It's crucial to pray with and for them as they navigate these transitional years.

2. Life Skills Development: High schoolers can benefit from learning essential life skills such as financial planning, time management, and self-discovery. Helping them identify their unique talents and interests is vital in guiding them toward a suitable career path. (Kris mentioned a great career assessment tool you might want to order.)

3. Priority Planner: Utilize a priority planner to help teens live by their priorities instead of getting caught up in the busyness of life. Whether they are homeschooled, in private school, or public school, this tool can set them up for success post-graduation.

Learn more about Kris, her consulting services and her books on her website, and download a free goal setting document. 

Check out the Questions for Kids picture book series, perfect for young readers ages 5-10! 

*Are you looking for fun, gospel-inspired merch for your family + discounted picture books for your kids and grandkids? Visit my Etsy store at KarensBooksandMore

Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer! 🌈

Love this podcast episode? Please leave a positive rating/review and share this episode with a friend ❤️

Visit our websites at: 

https://www.karenferg.com/

https://www.sandrakaychambers.com/ 

Find our books on Amazon:

Karen Ferguson: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Sandra Chambers: ...