As a mother who's navigated the stormy seas of parenting, I've seen firsthand the pressures that tests and tryouts can heap onto our children's shoulders. Today, I'm sharing heartfelt strategies to support your kids through anxiety-riddled tests, whether the elementary spelling test, ACT, or sports tryouts.  We'll explore how shifting the conversation from your child's abilities to God's guiding hand can make all the difference. 

I'll share three practical tips that can ease the burden of test anxiety for your little ones, including how to pray with them using scripture and the profound impact of sending a short but powerful encouraging note or text. We also discuss the importance of celebrating every success by attributing it to God's wisdom and support. 

Plus, I've put together a special resource just for you—a complimentary PDF of Bible verses tailored for testing times, ready to download below. Let's turn these challenges into opportunities to strengthen your child's faith and confidence.

Helpful Links from the Podcast:

• FREE PDF - Scriptures to Pray for Testing Anxiety
• Subscribe to The Helping Hand Newsletter
• Learn to Pray the Scriptures Podcast
• Building a Work Ethic

Scripture Shared in this Podcast:

• Colossians 3:23 - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.
• Deuteronomy 6:4-9 - Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Get connected with Parenting to Impress:
Facebook Group: /groups/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
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Thanks for listening!

Her inquiry was raw and brimming with emotion. To conclude, she anonymously posted, "I'm committed to our marriage, but I am tired." I'm aware that many have experienced this same sentiment in their marriages, even though Christians often feel pressure to have a different kind of marriage. Yet, what are you to do when you feel trapped and unhappy? Can love and connection truly endure in a marriage?

I invite you to join me on what may be my most candid podcast yet. I welcome you to sit in the booth as my guest and I engage in an honest conversation about expectations for date nights, issues of control, and the impact of sin and discord. This is a marriage podcast that diverges from the typical "Christian" responses you may have encountered.

Whether you've listened to every episode of the Parenting to Impress podcast or none at all, I encourage you to click "play" above and discover that you are not alone. There is hope.

Helpful Links:

• Re|Engage
• A Weekend to Remember
• Marriage Recovery Center

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!

Let's talk about adoption and foster care. Some adopt to expand their families. Others personally feel a command to "look after the orphans" (James 1:27). Recently, I sat down with my friend Holly to learn about her journey of foster care and adoption. It was eye-opening and inspiring, to say the least. 

Join us for a conversation that's not just about building a family, but about redefining what it means to love unconditionally.

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!

Imagine a life in which you trust God with your time so much so that you pause work on Sundays.  Sounds intriguing, right?

Join us, your hosts Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson, as we share our personal journeys about observing Sabbath - even as busy moms. From the ancient roots of Sabbath in the Old Testament to its place in the 10 commandments, we dig into why God established this practice and how we strive to balance rest with our parenting responsibilities.

Parenthood can often feel like a non-stop whirlwind, but we're here to remind you there is freedom in establishing a Sabbath routine that works for you. From navigating weekend tournaments to aligning with your spouse on spiritual goals for your children, we share our experiences and learnings in finding balance. So, whether you're a busy mom or a dad trying to figure out rest in the midst of chaos, this conversation will offer you practical insights and spiritual encouragement. Let's journey together in discovering the beauty of Sabbath rest in our lives as parents.

Helpful Links from this Episode:  

• Characteristics of a God-Centered Family, Part 2 Podcast and Blog Post
• Live Chat with Heidi

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!

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.org
  
  
• Love is.... {Free Printable}

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!

Delve into the transformative journey of guiding your child's spiritual growth with our latest podcast episode! From laying the foundational truths of Scripture in preschool years to navigating its application in the teen phase, we unravel practical insights for every stage.

Join us as we explore how to bridge the gap between Bible stories and real-life application, equipping your child to navigate life's challenges with wisdom rooted in faith. Tune in for invaluable tips and heartfelt encouragement on nurturing a lasting relationship between your child and God's Word.

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
• Cultivating a Lifelong Love for the Bible: A Parent's Guide From Toddlers to Teens
• BlueLetter Bible App
• The Power of ‘What Do You Think?’ in Parenting

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!

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 Post
• Free Bible Worksheets
• ABCJesusLovesMe Curriculum
• My Learn to Read Bible
• Kay Arthur's Discover 4 Yourself Inductive Bible Studies for Kids
• YouVersion Audio Bible App
• Should Self-Help Books Be Used in Your Quiet Time? Podcast/Blog Post
• How to Have a Quiet Time with God Podcast/Blog Post
• Live Chat with Heidi

Episode 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/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

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 Stories
• The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name 
•  Veggie Tales
• My First Hands-On Bible
• The Investigator's Holy Bible
• The Adventure Bible
• The Explorer Bible
• The Ultimate Bible for Girls

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!

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/ABCJLM
Facebook: /heidi.franz.2911
Instagram: /abcjesuslovesme/
Subscribe to Blog & Newsletters: forms.feedblitz.com/5r0

Thanks for listening!

Ever feel like you're walking through life with a perpetual frown? Are you tired of how your grumpy moods are impacting your relationships, especially within your family? You're not alone.

Today, we unpack the mystery behind our random, or not so random, bouts of grumpiness and how they can hinder our connections with loved ones. We highlight the role of basic needs and we disentangle how our view of God can significantly influence our attitude and consequently, our interactions. We also debate the critical importance of being selective about what influences our lives and how that can fundamentally affect our overall mood.

Join us in this journey of exploring and navigating crankiness to build stronger relationships within your family.

Helpful Links from this Episode:  

• How to Build a Heart of Gratitude in Your Child Podcast and Blog Post
• How to Overcome Loneliness in Parenthood Podcast and Blog Post
• Ephesians 6:12 - For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
• The Power of One-Liners and Broken Records Podcast and Blog Post {Free Printable}

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!

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 Child
• Love is.... {Free Printable}
• Beautifully Explaining Salvation in the Happy Birthday Jesus Workbook

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!