Parenting to Impress

Heidi Franz @ ABCJesusLovesMe

🎙️ Parenting to Impress, your go-to podcast to learn practical ways to love God and love others, and impress this on the hearts of your children. Heidi Franz, the creator of ABCJesusLovesMe, is joined by her dear friend Melanie Simpson. Two moms who have made a lot of mistakes but have found grace and truth along the way. 🧒 Join Heidi and Melanie as they dive into the world of parenting, sharing their insights, stories, and wisdom gained from their own journeys.   From navigating the challenges of raising children in a modern world to finding creative ways to instill faith and values in your family, this podcast is your source of biblical and practical advice. 📖 Each episode will explore different aspects of parenting, faith, and relationships, with guest interviews, expert insights, and real-life anecdotes. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting your journey, Parenting to Impress is here to support you in creating a loving and godly home. 🎧 Tune in to Parenting to Impress and embark on a journey of growth, love, and faith as you seek to "impress" the values that matter most on the hearts of your children.  Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

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Kids & FamilyKids & Family

Episodes

How to Preserve Your Marriage Amidst a World of Divorce
Feb 18 2024
How to Preserve Your Marriage Amidst a World of Divorce
This podcast episode explores the sacred covenant of marriage. Join us as we uncover the truths behind common misconceptions and reveal the divine blueprint for matrimony.In this personal discussion, Melanie and I dive into the wisdom of 1 Corinthians 13:4-9, offering practical advice on cultivating love and humility within your marriage. We'll debunk the notion of perpetual happiness, emphasizing instead the journey towards holiness that marriage entails.Discover the true meaning of submission as a reflection of surrender to God, not a tool for control. We'll also address common challenges like the 'seven-year-itch' and offer insights on how to guard and nurture your relationship.Through personal experience and insights from God's word, we'll show you how facing life's trials together has strengthen our marriages, allowing them to not just endure, but thrive. Tune in for a fresh perspective on marriage that will inspire and encourage you on your own journey of matrimony.Helpful Links from this Episode:  "One study found that a third of unhappy couples with new babies divorced, but of the two-thirds who persisted, 93% reported happy marriages. A 2002 report found that two-thirds of unhappily married adults who chose to stick it out reported happier marriages five years later."  Breakingpoint.orgLove is.... {Free Printable}Get connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
Cultivating a Lifelong Love for the Bible: A Parent's Guide From Toddlers to Teens
Jan 21 2024
Cultivating a Lifelong Love for the Bible: A Parent's Guide From Toddlers to Teens
Ever wondered how to cultivate a lifelong love of God's Word in your child, starting from their early years? That's exactly where we're heading in this enlightening episode of Parenting 2 Impressed. We share hands-on activities that can build a passion for the Bible and explain how teaching children to sit still and listen to God's Word can lay the groundwork for a lifelong love of scripture. Imagine your little one clutching their very own Bible, eyes sparkling with interest as you read to them - that's the kind of passion we're talking about!Now, let's move onto the preteens and teens, shall we? This phase can be quite a challenge, but also an opportunity to further develop your child's relationship with the Bible. We give you strategies to provide resources that will help them engage with scripture in a way that suits them. More so, we explore the importance of creating an environment where your children feel comfortable to ask questions about their faith. We wrap things up with practical tips on helping your children develop a personal relationship with the Bible, including how to handle resistance. Join us as we navigate the delightful journey of guiding your child towards a fulfilling relationship with the Bible.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.  From Pages to Hearts: Finding the Best Children's Bible for Your Child  Podcast/Blog PostFree Bible WorksheetsABCJesusLovesMe CurriculumMy Learn to Read BibleKay Arthur's Discover 4 Yourself Inductive Bible Studies for KidsYouVersion Audio Bible AppShould Self-Help Books Be Used in Your Quiet Time? Podcast/Blog PostHow to Have a Quiet Time with God Podcast/Blog PostLive Chat with HeidiEpisode Sponsor:  The Old and New Testament  Bible Curricula provides age-appropriate learning for children ages 3-10 years at home, preschool, or church (Sunday School).Get connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
From Pages to Hearts: Finding the Best Children's Bible for Your Child
Jan 7 2024
From Pages to Hearts: Finding the Best Children's Bible for Your Child
Ready to embark on a divine journey of selecting the perfect children's Bible? We're here to guide you through this process. From charming picture Bibles for toddlers to engaging story Bibles for preschoolers, we analyze them all. Whether you're in search of the ideal beginner's Bible for your four to six-year-old, or a more comprehensive children's Bible for your early reader, we've got you covered. We highlight crucial factors like the Bible's intended use, the accuracy of its paraphrasing, age-appropriateness, and additional information included. Our motive is to equip you to make an informed choice that's just right for your little one's spiritual needs.But that's not all, dear parents and educators. We also underscore the importance of Bible reading for you. Immerse yourselves in God's word alongside your children and inspire them to comprehend the divine truth. Our conversation revolves around cultivating a joy for Bible reading within your children and, most importantly, within you. Let's frame this spiritual journey together, one that leads our precious young ones to a love and understanding of the divine scripture. Remember, it’s not just about teaching them—it’s about leading them by example. This episode promises to be a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone guiding a child on their path to spirituality. Let's get started!In this enlightening episode of Parenting to Impress, we embark on a journey to help you discover the perfect Children's Bible.  Join us as we delve into the world of Children's Bibles, exploring key aspects such as age-appropriateness, engaging illustrations, interactive features, and the alignment to the truth of God's Word.   Together, we'll help you make an informed choice that resonates with your child's unique interests and spiritual growth.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.  The Beginner's Bible: Timeless Children's StoriesThe Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name  Veggie TalesMy First Hands-On BibleThe Investigator's Holy BibleThe Adventure BibleThe Explorer BibleThe Ultimate Bible for GirlsGet connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
Thriving Amidst Differing Spiritual Beliefs in Marriage
Dec 10 2023
Thriving Amidst Differing Spiritual Beliefs in Marriage
Navigating spiritual differences within marriage and parenting can be a tricky terrain, but we promise you, it's not an insurmountable obstacle. We’re here to guide you through maintaining your personal faith practices even if your spouse isn't on the same spiritual wavelength. We've faced these challenges ourselves and have emerged stronger and more understanding, sharing the lessons learned with you so you don't have to walk this path alone. Follow us as we debunk unrealistic expectations of a Christian spouse and emphasize the importance of focusing on your own spiritual journey rather than your partner's. In the second half of our discussion, we delve into the challenges of spiritual parenting and managing varying beliefs within a marriage. We underline the need for humility in discussing faith-based matters and the significance of understanding each other's personalities for maintaining spiritual accountability. Turning to the delicate issue of imparting faith to children, we ensure to remind you that God's ways often surpass our immediate understanding. We wrap up our conversation with the power of prayer, especially for those grappling with difficult marriages or non-believing spouses. We offer our prayers for struggling marriages and the opening of hearts to Jesus Christ. Join us for this enlightening discourse immersed in grace, truth, and hope.Get connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
A Parent's Crucial Role in Teaching Sin and Redemption
Nov 12 2023
A Parent's Crucial Role in Teaching Sin and Redemption
What if we could transform our children's understanding of sin and accountability, without discouraging them?  Join us, your hosts, Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson, two seasoned mothers who have walked this parenting journey, as we dive this challenging  conversation about teaching kids about sin. We navigate the tricky waters of explaining that sin involves the choices we make, and how to turn missteps into opportunities for pointing our little ones towards Christ. Moving beyond just defining sin, we delve into the importance of instilling accountability in our children. We caution against making light of sin and instead, share strategies on utilizing teachable moments to communicate its essence effectively. We also reveal insights on empowering their thought processes and nurturing a spirit of inquiry and critical thinking about their faith. And in the midst of this weighty discussion, we provide a comforting reminder of the promise of transformation and redemption that comes with obedience to God. This is an episode that promises to uplift, enlighten, and encourage.Helpful Links from this Episode:  Navigating the Conversation: A Parent's Guide to Discussing Sex with Their ChildLove is.... {Free Printable}Beautifully Explaining Salvation in the Happy Birthday Jesus WorkbookGet connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
Exploring the AI Frontier in a Christian Home
Oct 15 2023
Exploring the AI Frontier in a Christian Home
Ready to explore how AI (Artificial intelligence) could transform everyday life? With a focus on biblical parenting, this conversation with data engineer and architect, Christopher King, will definitely expand your horizons. Uncover the creative potential of generative AI, a technology capable of producing text, poetry, songs, and images from limited input and grasp the implications to for your family and your children's futures. Chris, our guest, isn't just theorizing; he's a hands-on practitioner who uses AI in his daily work and to create illustrations for his books, D is for Data: The ABC's of Data Anayltics. Learn from his experience, gain tips on how kids can safely interact with this transformative technology, and discover how AI is transforming our daily lives. Highlighting the importance of vocabulary in STEAM education, we also delve into AI application across different age groups - from preschoolers to teenagers. Don't miss out on Chris's inspiring perspective on this groundbreaking technology.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.  Giveaway for D is for Data: The ABC's of Data Analytics200 High-Quality Books for Preschool-Aged ChildrenChatGPTQuality Preschool CurriculumChris used the following programs to create his book:MidJourney for Image GenerationTraceJourney for UpScalingCanva for LayoutAmazon KDP for PublishingGet connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
Navigating the Conversation: A Parent's Guide to Discussing Sex with Their Child
Sep 17 2023
Navigating the Conversation: A Parent's Guide to Discussing Sex with Their Child
Join us for an honest and heartfelt discussion on parenting and grace as we delve into the important topic of talking to our children about sex. In this podcast episode, we reflect on our own experiences, acknowledging the missteps and fears we've faced. But we also explore the transformative power of approaching this conversation from a biblical perspective. Tune in as Melanie and Heidi share valuable insights, lessons learned, and the wisdom we wish we'd had earlier in shaping our children's understanding of sexuality. Discover the path to grace-filled and meaningful conversations with your kids on this episode of our podcast. 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.  The Care and Keeping of YouThe Talk, Changes, and RelationshipsPassport2PurityHow to Raise a Selfish ChildOvercomerHow to Raise a Child in a Gender-Neutral WorldHenry Blackaby's Experiencing GodCharacteristics of a God-Centered Family (Sports)Episode Sponsor:  The Old and New Testament Curricula provides age-appropriate learning for children ages 3-10 years at home, preschool, or church (Sunday School).Get connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!
Learning from Our Parenting Missteps: Navigating Discipline Blind Spots
Aug 20 2023
Learning from Our Parenting Missteps: Navigating Discipline Blind Spots
Have you ever asked more seasoned parents about the aspects of parenting they might have reconsidered if they possessed the knowledge they do today? And what about the boundaries they are grateful for having upheld?As we embark on the parenting journey, we often carry certain expectations of how things will unfold. However, sooner or later, unforeseen challenges arise. Continuing our series, the subject of discipline is particularly riddled with areas where we might be unaware of potential pitfalls.Melanie and Heidi frequently acknowledge on this podcast that they are "two moms who have made numerous mistakes but have also discovered grace and serenity along the way." Today, they'll discuss some of the blind spots they encountered in their approach to discipline and the valuable lessons they gained from them.Helpful Links from this Episode: The What and How of Parenting with One Liners25 Points of Advice We've Learned Along the Way Podcast and BlogsFree ABCJesusLovesMe Parenting VideosEpisode Sponsor:  The ABCJesusLovesMe Biblical Discipline Series provides the why, what and how of discipline the way God has designed.  Receive tips and tools you can immediately implement into your home or classroom.  Order now for only $12.00.Get connected with Parenting to Impress:Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLMFacebook: /heidi.franz.2911Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0Thanks for listening!