Parenting to Impress

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Join Melanie and Heidi as they discuss the delicate balance of parenting without over-helping, based on Stanford's research and their own experiences. They emphasize the importance of letting children face challenges to build independence, a strong work ethic, and a sense of purpose. By stepping back, parents can help their kids develop self-regulation, emotional understanding, and responsibility.

In this episode, you'll learn a practical four-step process inspired by how Jesus taught his disciples, applicable for all ages—from helping a toddler clean up to teaching a teen to drive. With personal stories and insights into how parental control affects children's future, they encourage a supportive rather than controlling approach.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• Free Developmental Checklists
• Stanford Research
• Study #2
• How to Nurture a Strong Work-Ethic in Your Child
• Guide to Raising Successful Kids
• How to Build a Heart of Gratitude in a Child
• 4 Ways to Give Your Child Purpose
• Teaching a Child Responsibility Through Household Chores
• You May Be Raising a Selfish Child

Episode Sponsor:  The Be Intentional Planner - the planner created to help you be the intentional woman God has called you to be.  Order now for only $15.00

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Let’s do some shocking math for a moment. If your family goes to church for three hours a week, that only accounts for 1.8% of your entire week. While those three hours in corporate worship are vital, we can't hold the church responsible for the spiritual growth of our children. We must bring God's Word into our homes.

Family Bible time is one more opportunity to consistently nurture your child’s faith beyond Sundays. You aren't creating a mini-church service—just a simple time of learning together who God is and what He does. Discover simple ideas you can begin today as well as tips for working with your spouse and kids who don't want to join the time.

Helpful Links from this Episode:
Some linked items are affiliate links. This means that we receive an itty-bitty commission if you choose to purchase through these links. 

• ABCJesusLovesMe Facebook Group
• Play Dough Recipe
• Bible Coloring Sheets
• Preschool Developmentally Appropriate Checklists
• Sunday School Songs
• Age-Appropriate Bibles for Kids
• Deuteronomy 6:4-9 
• The Beginner's Bible
• Choosing the Best Children's Bible Podcase Episode and Blog Post
• Interactive Bible Stories for Preschoolers
• Betty Lukens Flannelgraph
• YouVersion Kids 
• Seeds Family Worship 

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Ever wondered how to create a home environment where respect, trust, and obedience naturally flourish? In our latest episode of Parenting to Impress, we uncover the biblical foundations of family structure and obedience, drawing wisdom from the scriptures.   

And hitting a topic not typically shared in Christian circles, Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson share encouragement for parents whose children are not following God's desire for their lives. 

Be encouraged and empowered as you join in yet another honesty and transparent conversation among friends.

Helpful Links from this Episode:  Some linked items are affiliate links. This means that this ministry receives an itty-bitty commission if you choose to purchase through these links. 

• Teaching Respect in Your Home Podcast and Blog Post
• Free Developmental  Checklists (Ages 1-5)
  1 year - https://forms.feedblitz.com/imv
  2 year - https://forms.feedblitz.com/imz
  3 year - https://forms.feedblitz.com/in3
  4 year - https://forms.feedblitz.com/in7
  5 year - https://forms.feedblitz.com/inb
• Love and Logic Early Childhood
• Parenting Styles (Authoritative)
• Comparison Podcast
• Characteristics of a God-Centered Family Podcast with a Youth Group Leader
• How to Survive Restaurants and Church with Wiggly Kids Video
• Grace and Truth Discipline Video Series

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Why do children sometimes show more respect to one parent than the other? In this episode we will take a dive into various parenting styles—uninvolved, permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative—exploring how each impacts the level of respect children show parents. You'll gain valuable insights into teaching children what respect truly looks like, all through the lens of biblical principles and the importance of seeing each family member as an image bearer of God.

Join us on this eye-opening episode of Parenting to Impress as we tackle this intriguing question and uncover the hidden links between respect, tone, and body language within the home.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• Are You Raising a Spoiled Child?
• Bible Verses about Respecting the Government
• How to Raise Children Who Serve
  
  

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

What if teaching your child to pray could be as simple and joyful as blowing bubbles? 

Heidi and Melanie share their experiences in teaching their children to pray, provide suggestions on introducing prayer to your kids, and motivate you to begin this meaningful journey, regardless of your children's age.

Helpful Links from this Episode:
Some linked items are affiliate links. This means that we receive an itty-bitty commission if you choose to purchase through these links.  

• How to Pray the Scriptures Podcast Episode
• Prayer Songs (10 Fingers Folded in Prayer)
• Creating a Prayer Journal
• I Can Talk with God by Debby Anderson (While we didn't discuss this book in the podcast, it is an excellent children's book to explain prayer to children.)
• How to Teach a Child to Pray

Episode Sponsor:  ABCJesusLovesMe.com, an educational ministry that equips adults with the materials needed to be intentional in educating children.

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Dive into the intersection of faith and personality as the Parenting to Impress Podcast duo discusses the spiritual implications and use of the Enneagram. Addressing concerns about its possible evil origins, we explore how Christians can thoughtfully approach and utilize this tool used to understand the nine personality types. Join us as we explore what a Christian is to do with the Enneagram and its potential for spiritual growth, parenting, and healthy relationships.

Helpful Links from this Episode:  Some linked items are affiliate links. This means that we receive an itty-bitty commission if you choose to purchase through these links.  

• Free Enneagram Cheat Sheet
• Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron
• The Enneagram for Teens by Ainsley Britain
• Should Self-Help Books be Used in Your Quiet Time podcast episode and blog post

Episode Sponsor:  ABCJesusLovesMe.com, an educational ministry that equips adults with the materials needed to be intentional in educating children.

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Discover how teaching children household chores can reduce their anxiety and foster responsibility. Inspired by Chris and Lindsay Wheeler's book, "Kit and the Missing Notebook," this popular episode explores how engaging kids in daily tasks can create a peaceful family dynamic and prepare them for a life of service to God and others.

Melanie and Heidi provide practical tips for parents on starting young and fostering balanced growth. Learn how simple tasks like making the bed can build lifelong habits, and find strategies for recognizing efforts without over-rewarding.

We also discuss balancing support and self-esteem to avoid making children feel incapable or overly invincible. Transform your parenting approach and integrate meaningful chores into your family's routine. Join us to prepare your children for a lifetime of service and growth!

Helpful Links from this Episode:
Some linked items are affiliate links. This means that I receive an itty-bitty commission if you choose to purchase through these links. See my favorite products here. 

• Raising Kids Who Serve (Part 2)
• Age-Appropriate Chore Chart Free Printable
• Age-Appropriate Cooking Chart Free Printable
• Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby
• Quarter System (Money Management and Behavior System for Children)
• Kid-safe Knife

Episode Sponsor:  The Be Intentional Planner - the planner created to help you be the intentional woman God has called you to be.  Order now for only $15.00

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Can the way you talk with your children really shape your child's cognitive, emotional, and social development? Discover the transformative power of balancing instructional and relational talk in this popular episode of Parenting to Impress.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• ABCJesusLovesMe Preschool Curriculum
• Pragmatics
• Teachable Moments
• How to Engage in Meaningful Conversations... Blog Post

Episode Sponsor:  ABCJesusLovesMe.com, an educational ministry that equips adults with the materials needed to be intentional in educating children.

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Can a family vacation really be both relaxing and fun when you're juggling young kids, single-bathroom situations, and meal planning? Tune in as we unravel the joy and chaos of family trips, offering practical advice on everything from mastering staycations to understanding the nuances of hotel etiquette and VRBO meal prep. Learn why setting realistic goals is key and how adjusting your expectations as your children grow can lead to more fulfilling trips. And if elaborate travel plans seem daunting, fear not—discover the beauty of meaningful family time close to home. Join us for a refreshing perspective that prioritizes shared experiences over picture-perfect vacations.

Helpful Links from this Episode: 

• Vacationing Tips for Families
• Family Vacation 101:  What to Pack, Where to Say, How Long, Meal Calendar
• I'm Giving You Permission Not to Go on a Family Vacation and Why
• Brand New:  Road Trip Activity Book
• Hotel Rooms, Vacations, and Kids:  16 Tips to Success
• Create a Travel Journal (ages 5+), 2nd Edition
• Car and Travel Activities for Kids
• Specific Tips to Visit:   Central California (Yosemite)
       Smoky Mountains
       Rocky Mountains (Colorado Springs)
       Grand Tetons and Yellowstone
       Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon
       St. Louis
• "How to Break Free from Lies to Embrace the Truth" Podcast Episode

Episode Sponsor:  The Be Intentional Planner - the planner created to help you be the intentional woman God has called you to be.  Order now for only $15.00.

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Send me a text to ask a question or share a thought!

Embark on a journey to craft the ultimate summer experience for your kids. Together, Melanie and Heidi peel back the layers of parenting during those sun-drenched days, drawing inspiration from Mark 12:30 to fill our children's time with intention. Whether you love the slower pace or grapple with guilt as a working parent, our conversation is brimming with actionable strategies to help you plan a summer.

Discover how to strike that perfect balance between nurturing your child's academic and spiritual progress and embracing the carefree spirit of the season. Tune in and transform those fleeting summer moments into lasting memories and lessons for your little ones.

Helpful Links from this Episode: 

• Free Summer Success Packet
• Training a Child to Report
• Teaching Little Man First-Time Obedience
• Runts Fruit Candy (affiliate link)
• Our Daily Bread for Kids (affiliate link)
• Old and New Testament Curriculum 
• All About Spelling Curriculum (affiliate link)
• How Much Media Use is the Right Amount?

Episode Sponsor:  ABCJesusLovesMe.com, an educational ministry that equips adults with the materials needed to be intentional in educating children.

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!