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About a year ago, Melanie and I recorded a podcast episode we didn’t know would be our last for quite some time. The break wasn’t planned, but life required it. 2025 brought confusion, heartbreak, grief, and parenting decisions that didn’t come with clear answers. In this podcast, we share why that pause happened and what God has been teaching us along the way.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• How to Pray the Scriptures
• New Morning Mercies by Paul Tripp (ad)

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 to train children to respect wake-up times and stay in bed, allowing parents to reclaim their mornings for essential quiet time with God. In this episode we share 7 practical tips and a step-by-step training process that works for even the most determined early risers.

If you haven't downloaded our Free Bedtime Routine Visual Schedule, check out this link. And for more on establishing a meaningful quiet time with God, listen to our previous episode on that topic.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• Bedtime Routines that Work, Part 1
• Free Bedtime Routine Visual Schedule
• How to Have a Quiet Time
• Wake-up Clocks for Kids (affiliate link)
• Psalm 4:8 - In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
• Love and Logic (affiliate link)

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!

If bedtime feels like chaos and you’re desperate for a little peace (and sleep!), you are not alone. We’ve been there — exhausted and unsure what would actually help our kids stay in bed and sleep well.

In this 2-part podcast, Melanie and Heidi are sharing the bedtime routine that worked for their families—what they did right, what they'd do differently, and how you can create a plan that brings rest to everyone in your home.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• How to Have a Quiet Time
• Reading the Bible with Kids
• How to Have Family Devotions
• Free Bedtime Routine Visual Schedule

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!

Grief is hard, especially when you’re trying to help a child process loss. In this episode, Melanie and I share 10 practical ways to walk alongside kids as they navigate sadness, whether from the death of a loved one, the loss of a pet, or even disappointment over unmet expectations. From preparing them for what to expect at a funeral to offering comfort in ways they understand, this episode will equip you with tools to provide the support and reassurance children need. Discover helpful ideas, encouragement, and real-life experiences.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• ABCJesusLovesMe Facebook Group
• When Technology is Out of Control in Your Home
• 5 Tips to Keep Your Child Quiet During Church
• Raising Emotionally Resilient Children
• Potty Training Tips
• How to Teach Kids about Emotions
• Teaching Kids about Pragmatics
• Books to Guide Children Through Grief

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!

In this episode, Heidi shares practical tips on teaching colors and shapes through fun, play-based activities that build your child’s vocabulary, creativity, and early math skills. Using everyday conversations, Bible stories, books, and play, she helps parents and teachers introduce colors and shapes in a natural, engaging way. Whether you're just starting or looking for fresh ideas, this podcast will inspire you to teach these foundational concepts with confidence and joy.

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• How to Teach Kids
• Creation Activities for Kids
• Joseph's Colorful Coat Activities for Kids
• The Rainbow in Noah's Ark
• Color-based Books
• Shape Books
• Maximum Learning While Reading

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!

In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that every parent can relate to—helping our kids manage their big emotions and build emotional resilience. It’s not always easy, but it’s so important!

We’ll share practical tips on teaching kids to identify their feelings, model emotional resilience ourselves, and use books and daily routines to make learning fun. Plus, Melanie and I discuss the impact of screen time, gratitude, and other key areas that can influence a child's emotional well-being. Don’t miss this encouraging conversation filled with real-life examples and helpful insights you can start using today!

Helpful Links from this Episode:

• ABCJesusLovesMe Preschool Trainings
• ABCJesusLovesMe Preschool Curriculum
• Ways to Introduce the Vocabulary of Emotions
• Quality Emotions Teaching Books
• How to Teach Your Child about Sin
• Speak Truth into Your Children
• Don't Do for a Child What They Can Do for Themselves
• My Stance on Electronics
• How to Teach Scissor Use

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!

Reading to children is a crucial aspect of their development, creating a strong foundation for vocabulary, comprehension, and emotional intelligence. This episode dives deep into the characteristics of quality children's literature and practical tips for making reading an enriching experience for both parents and kids.

• Importance of reading to children for early development
• Key qualities to look for in quality children's books
• Engagement through relatable characters and compelling narratives
• The role of illustrations in conveying emotions and enhancing stories
• Utilizing rhythm and flow for effective reading experiences
• The value of repetition in reinforcing learning and vocabulary
• Strategies for interactive, enjoyable reading sessions
• Addressing challenges with active children during reading time
• Encouragement for daily reading habits to foster lifelong love for books

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.

• Picture Walk Through a Book
• The Best Books for Kids
• Mr Putter and Tabby books
• Episodes Transcript

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!

Join us in our virtual booth as Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson share our reflections and intentions for the year ahead. We discuss personal stories of letting go of distractions, desires, and our perceived "rights" to grow spiritually. Melanie’s word for the year, "more," represents a desire for more joy and closeness with God, and we talk about setting meaningful spiritual goals.

In this episode, we explore how godly friendships, like ours, can encourage spiritual growth and help keep us focused. Whether you're striving to model a godly life for your children or build friendships that strengthen your faith, we hope this conversation offers both encouragement and practical insights.

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.

• Word Before the World by Gretchen Saffles
• Episode Transcript

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!