→ Prayer Calendar

The newborn season is sacred, tender, and overwhelming all at once. If you’re a new or expectant mom, you might be flooded with advice, milestones, and social media perfection. But what you really need is encouragement rooted in truth and grace.

In this episode, we reflect on our own seasons of young motherhood and share some deeply personal wisdom for the earliest weeks of parenting. From physical recovery and feeding decisions to postpartum emotions and sleep deprivation, this episode is for young moms who are seeking peace and perspective in the midst of it all.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:03:30] There is no "perfect mom"
[00:08:30] Meal train secrets
[00:11:30] Milestone pressure from Instagram
[00:16:30] Postpartum depression
[00:19:00] Breastfeeding vs. bottle-feeding

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Prayer Calendar

Creating a parenting plan can feel overwhelming especially in the early years when days are unpredictable and your energy is low. But what if a plan wasn’t about rigid control, but about peace, purpose, and flexibility?

In this episode, we explore how simple rhythms, clear communication, and God-centered intention can help you build a plan that actually serves your family. Whether you're a type-A planner or someone who struggles to keep a calendar, this episode gives grace-filled strategies for designing a routine that supports your mental health, aligns with your values, and helps your kids feel secure and loved.

Framework questions for developing a plan
1) What am I trying to accomplish each day but am unable to?
2) What are some things that I must get done each day for my family?
3) What are some things that I must get done each day for me, so that I can be fully present with my family?

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Why parenting plans can feel heavy
[00:02:00] Three questions to guide your plan
[00:08:30] Why kids crave structure
[00:16:30] Prepping for routine changes: Why kids need advance notice

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Prayer Calendar

Potty training is one of the most common parenting milestones and often, one of the most stressful. In this episod, we offer a refreshing grace-filled perspective that rather than chasing quick fixes or rigid timelines, invites parents to slow down, follow their child’s cues, and see this developmental stage as an opportunity to walk with their child.

Blending research, practical steps, and biblical encouragement, this episode reframes potty training as a joy-filled process of growth (as much as it can be), independence, and discipleship.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction: Why potty training feels stressful for so many parents
[00:04:30] When to begin: Signs of readiness, developmental timing, and early interest
[00:08:00] First steps: Preparing your environment and changing your expectations
[00:13:30] Nighttime training strategies: Sheets, plastic covers, and grace
[00:19:00] Language tips: Avoiding phrases like “Do it for Mommy”

3 Takeaways

1. Potty training is your child’s developmental work not a performance to manage or a schedule to control. When you treat it as a learning process rather than a task to complete, you reduce pressure and increase joy.
2. Encouragement beats rewards. Positive reinforcement rooted in celebration, praise, and connection is more effective than material rewards or punishments. Visuals, routines, and sibling examples help build independence.
3. God invites us to walk with our children in every milestone including potty training. With patience, presence, and prayer, we can guide them through this stage as a form of loving discipleship.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Prayer Calendar

Summer offers a unique opportunity to slow down, connect, and refocus on what really matters. But for many parents, it quickly becomes a season of hustle, pressure, and endless activity. In this episode, we explore how to reclaim the summer months with purpose, peace, and joy. We share practical, faith-centered ideas for engaging your children from backyard discovery and theme days to pointing your kids to God through nature and Scripture.

With encouragement rooted in biblical wisdom and real-life examples, this episode reminds us that summer doesn’t need to be full of structure to be full of meaning.

Scripture mentioned
Matthew 13:3-9
Matthew 13:18-33
Ephesians 5:19-20

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:03:30] 3 Strategies for Laying a Foundation this Summer
[00:15:30] Four-part Garden framework: Prepare, Weed, Tend, Irrigate

3 Takeaways

1. Summer is a valuable time for preparing the soil of your child’s heart. By slowing down and creating space for unstructured play, natural discovery, and quiet reflection, you nurture their imagination, curiosity, and spiritual awareness.
2. You don’t need an elaborate itinerary to have a meaningful summer. Simple theme days, outdoor play, and intentional moments of connection can offer more joy and growth than packed calendars and over-programmed weeks.
3. Pointing your children to God doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether through conversations about nature, stories of Jesus as the living water, or planting seeds in a garden, every summer moment can be a discipleship opportunity.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Our Children's Bible recommendations
→ Prayer Calendar

Is it possible for siblings to grow up not just as family, but as lifelong friends? In this episode, we dive into one of the most frequently asked parenting questions: how do you nurture strong, lasting friendships between your children? Drawing wisdom from listener questions, childhood memories, and voices across multiple generations, they explore the habits, values, and family rhythms that create deep, enduring sibling bonds.

From conflict resolution strategies to mealtime conversation starters, this episode is full of practical tools for Christian families who want their children to grow up close to each other.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction: Listener question on sibling friendship that lasts into adulthood
[00:07:00] Practical framework for resolving sibling conflict: Connect, teach, restore
[00:12:00] The power of parental vision and legacy: “This family is meant to last”
[00:14:00] Dinner table questions: Highs and lows, one-word reflections, and prayer-focused conversations

3 Takeaways

1. Sibling friendships don’t happen by chance, they are nurtured. 
2. Conflict is an opportunity for growth, not division.
3. Mealtime can be the heartbeat of your family culture.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Prayer Calendar

Sleep: it's one of the most talked about (and stressed over) topics for new parents. In this episode, we break down the wide world of sleep training. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution, we'll offer you wisdom, humor, and grace to help you make informed, faith-filled choices for your family.

From Ferber to co-sleeping, historical context to biblical encouragement, this episode walks parents through a variety of methods while emphasizing unity, curiosity, and compassion in the journey. If you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or just wondering what works, this conversation should bring both clarity and comfort.

WEBSITES:
safetosleep.gov
healthychildren.org

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:05:00] Overview of popular sleep methods
[00:14:00] Safety considerations: SIDS, firm mattresses, and trusted resources
[00:18:00] Research review: What studies say—and don’t say—about sleep training success
[00:27:00] The power of a perspective shift: Reframing the fatigue with grace

3 Takeaways

1. There is no one “right” sleep training method. Each family must prayerfully and practically choose what aligns with their values, their child’s temperament, and their own needs.
2. Parental unity is key. When mom and dad agree on sleep routines, children thrive and so does the marriage.
3. The most effective bedtime routine is consistent, peaceful, and relational. Children benefit deeply from structure, connection, and loving presence at the end of the day.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Our Children's Bible recommendations
→ Prayer Calendar

Anxiety is often a companion for many mothers, especially in today’s world of ever-changing information and the overwhelming pressure to "get everything just right." In this episode of The Mind of a Child, we offer faith-filled wisdom for anxious moms including practical strategies, journaling tips, and the reminder that God gently leads those who are raising young children.

With real-life stories, scripture reflections, and a powerful framework for reframing fear, this episode equips moms to shift their focus from worldly worry to Godly peace and trust that He has already equipped them for the journey of motherhood.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] – What young moms are worrying about today
[00:05:00] – The "blessing" of anxiety
[00:09:00] – Practical journaling methods: SOAP, OIA, topical studies, gratitude, reflection
[00:20:00] – Bible verses to root your heart in peace: Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 139, and more
[00:25:00] – Listener question: How to create a quiet time with a 4-year-old

3 Takeaways

1. Anxiety in motherhood is not a flaw but a signal—an invitation to draw near to God. When we reframe anxiety as a call to communion with Christ rather than something to avoid or fix ourselves, we shift from fear to faith.
2. Journaling is a powerful spiritual tool that helps mothers process truth, hear from God, and retain His promises. Whether using prompts like SOAP or simply pouring out your heart, journaling slows the mind and centers the spirit on what is eternal.
3. Quiet time is not limited to solitude or silence. Whether with a 4-year-old by your side or in the midst of chores, building rhythms of Scripture, prayer, and worship—even in simple ways—can bring peace into the chaos of motherhood.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Our Children's Bible recommendations
→ Prayer Calendar

Finding moments for a quiet time with God can feel almost impossible while raising young children. In this episode, we share practical, grace-filled strategies to help you build daily rhythms of prayer, Bible reading, and worship.

Drawing from personal stories, biblical encouragement, and even the wisdom of historical Christian mothers like Susanna Wesley, these rhythms offer hope and inspiration for parents who long to strengthen their faith and nourish their souls—even in the busiest seasons of life.

Scripture mentioned:
1 John 5:11-12

John 16:24

1 Corinthians 10:13

1 John 1:9

Proverbs 3:5-6
----
Romans 3:23

Romans 6:23

Roman 5:8

Romans 10:9-10

Romans 10:13

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Defining quiet time and why it matters for spiritual health
[00:07:00] – List of 10 Rhythms: Set a consistent time and place for daily Bible reading
[00:20:00] – Recommended Children’s Bibles for Young Families
[00:23:00] – Final encouragement: Let Jesus gently lead you and rest in His daily mercies

3 Takeaways

1. Quiet time with the Lord does not need to be perfect to be powerful. Small, consistent moments spent in Scripture, prayer, and worship will bear fruit over time, even when life feels chaotic.
2. Involving children in your time with God can deepen their own relationship with Him. By modeling quiet time practices in everyday life, you teach your children to value faith, stillness, and the beauty of God’s Word.
3. Jesus gently leads mothers and fathers during busy seasons of parenting. Trust His mercy for today, focus on connection over perfection, and build quiet rhythms that nourish both your soul and your family.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Prayer Calendar

What does it actually mean to “train up a child in the way he or she should go”? In this episode, we unpack Proverbs 22:6 in a deeply practical and spiritually rich conversation. We outline a 5-part framework—demonstrate, instruct, apply, practice, and communicate—that equips Christian parents to train their children according to God’s Word.

From Scripture-based parenting moments at the dinner table to practicing respectful behavior in public, this episode offers biblical guidance and real-world examples to help you nurture your child’s heart, habits, and faith.

1 - Demonstration
2 - Instruction
3 - Application
4 - Practice
5 - Communication
*Bonus - PRAYER*

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Proverbs 22:6 and the foundation of biblical parenting
[00:01:00] – Step 1: Demonstration—Why living out your faith is the starting point
[00:03:00] – Step 2: Instruction—Teaching children scripture and leading them to wisdom
[00:13:00] – Step 3: Application—Bringing scripture into specific behaviors and choices
[00:18:00] – Step 4: Practice—Why repetition, joy, and connection deepen learning
[00:24:00] – Step 5: Communication—Clear expectations and behavior modeling
[00:28:00] – Prayer: The heart of it all—trusting God to change hearts, not just habits

3 Takeaways:

1. Biblical parenting begins with demonstrating authentic faith - Children are watching our daily lives more than they are listening to our words. Modeling godly character is the foundation for training them in truth.
2. Effective teaching includes instruction, application, and joyful practice - From quoting scripture during teachable moments to role-playing expected behaviors, parents can disciple their children through consistency and connection.
3. Prayer is central to parenting - Only God can transform hearts. While we are called to train and teach, it is the Holy Spirit who ultimately brings about lasting change in our children’s lives.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ Prayer Calendar

→ Our book recommendations

Learning to read is one of the most pivotal milestones in a child’s life—and yet, it’s often clouded with pressure, comparison, and confusion. On this episode, we explore what it really means to be “reading ready” by drawing from research-backed methods, personal parenting experiences, and biblical principles. We'll help you understand how to foster early literacy in a way that honors both the child’s pace and God’s design. 

With insights on vocabulary development, phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, and even the fourth-grade slump, this conversation equips parents with practical tools and the reassurance to trust the process—while never losing sight of the joy of reading and the power of God's Word.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Why reading matters and how it shapes lifelong success
[00:06:00] – Proven strategies for reading readiness: Language-rich environments and daily life learning
[00:13:00] – Breaking down the components of reading: Phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension
[00:18:00] – Understanding the fourth-grade slump: How vocabulary impacts academic success
[00:25:00] – Tips for reluctant readers: Observing interests and introducing engaging materials

3 Takeaways:

1. Reading is a developmental process that unfolds naturally over time - Parents are encouraged to resist comparison and pressure, instead creating rich, contextual environments where children can grow at their own pace—supported by love, conversation, and daily experiences.
2. Vocabulary is the single greatest predictor of long-term reading comprehension and academic success - From infancy through early elementary years, exposing children to diverse, rich language—through conversation, books, songs, poetry, and storytelling—is essential.
   Reading readiness is not just about decoding words. 
3. True literacy includes phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension - These components are best developed through daily living, joyful interaction, and exposure to meaningful content, especially scripture and high-quality literature.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.