Parenting to Impress

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
• ...

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 t...

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. 

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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...

 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 the...

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...

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 qualit...

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...

In this episode, Heidi and Melanie dive into the power of speaking truth over your children and the lasting impact it can have on their lives. We'll explore what it means to speak truth, why it's so important, and practical ways to begin doing this in your everyday parenting. They'll also share a personal example from Priscilla Shirer that really highlights how meaningful this practice can be. Plus, there's a sp...

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 l...

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 Sun...

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&ap...

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 ...

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.

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Some linked items are affiliate links. This means that we receive an itty-bitt...

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,...

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 ...

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:  AB...

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 l...

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...