Raising Christian Kids

“Inconvenient parenting is a willingness to lay down our comforts and our conveniences for the sake of our children to help them become who God created them to be.” – Melissa Hannigan. Melissa Hannigan holds a Master of Arts degree in counseling from Midwestern Theological Seminary. She is married to John Hannigan, and they have three daughters and a son who recently went to be with the Lord. Before becoming a full-time homeschool mom, Melissa worked with teen girls to overcome abuse, addictions, and trauma. She is passionate about helping people discover God’s best for their lives and families. Together, John and Melissa co-founded Ignite the Family, and she released her first book, Inconvenient Parenting, in August of 2023. During this episode, Melissa discusses the profound impact of parenting and how to approach it with faith and grace. She shares her personal journey of grief and resilience, diving into the concept of "inconvenient parenting" and the 12 God-given traits that can shape a positive parenting journey. She explores the challenges of modern parenting, the significance of nurturing children's unique gifts, and the delicate balance between meeting a child's needs and instilling a sense of wonder and humility. Melissa discusses her book, Inconvenient Parenting, and elaborates on the following 12 God-given parenting traits: wisdom, wonder, vitality, sensitivity, flexibility, curiosity, creativity, imagination, inventiveness, playfulness, humor, and joy. She mentions that these aren’t used as a checklist to see if your family has all these qualities; instead, they serve as traits to incorporate organically into everyday life and relationships. She is passionate about helping families unlock the potential that lies within every child and offers practical strategies to nurture and activate God-given traits. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“We teach our children biblical character, not so that they're better than others, not so that they perform better than others, but because it glorifies God when we put him on display in that way.” – Dr. Kathy Koch. Kathy Koch, PhD, is the founder and president of Celebrate Kids, Inc., and a child development specialist. She is also the author of seven bestselling parent-child enrichment books. In her latest book, Parent Differently, Raise Kids with Biblical Character That Changes Culture (Moody Publishers), Dr. Kathy reminds parents that if they want to see their children adopt positive attitudes, act righteously, and develop healthy habits, then they must lead by example in understanding and demonstrating biblical character. Dr. Kathy offers practical, relatable, and spiritual-centered insights and strategies for parents and educators, instructing them on how to guide children to develop biblical character so they flourish in life. She further encourages readers that there is “no shame or blame for yesterday and great hope for tomorrow.” During this episode, Dr. Kathy shares insights on her latest book, emphasizes the importance of instilling biblical character in children, and how parents can guide their kids to develop these values early on. She discusses the importance of gratitude and the connection between a child's beliefs and their character choices. “I wrote this book because if children don't have character, they will not develop into the people that God intended for them to be.” – Dr. Kathy Koch. Key Takeaways: Emphasis on leading by example, understanding biblical character, and the significance of character in children's development. The impact of negative character traits on children's ability to influence and contribute positively to society. It's never too early or too late to teach biblical character traits. Utilization of biblical stories and figures to teach children about character and the importance of redemption and second chances in character development. The three indicators of maturity in character: completeness, consistency, and automaticity. The importance of teaching gratitude as a foundational character virtue. The disconnection between chronological age and maturity in character. Jesus' belief in the importance of children and their influence, highlighting how Jesus valued and prioritized spending time with children. Emphasizing the critical role of children as the future and the importance of investing in them. Encouraging parents to prioritize character development over rule-following and obedience. Celebrate Kids Website, Facebook, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“We love because he first loved us. And it's the same with kids. Kids need to feel love in order to be able to love others. Love can change the world; that starts with us and our kids.” – Jill Roman Lord. Jill Roman Lord is an award-winning author of over 30 Christian children's books. She and her husband have raised three Jesus-loving kids who have flown the coop, leaving them to navigate the empty nest on their own. During this episode, Jill discusses the impact of children's literature on developing a personal relationship with God. She delves into her latest books that focus on teaching children how to love well and incorporate God's teachings into their lives. She also explores the significance of board books in shaping young minds and shares parental advice on navigating the challenges of raising children in today's world. Jill talks about a few of her children’s books and what children can learn from them: Love Well My Precious One – addressing the theme of love and sharing with others; this book teaches children that little acts of love can make a big impact in the world. Noah’s Joyful Ark – a board book for kids exploring the joyful aspect of being on Noah’s ark; this book encourages readers to roar, bark, and hee-haw along with all of God’s creatures, reminding children that even on gloomy days, they can look for God’s love in a rainbow. If Jesus Lived Inside my Heart – a board book for babies that explores the presence of Jesus in our lives; this story helps toddlers learn how to be kind and generous in different situations, while being introduced to Jesus. The Noisy Night – a new twist to the Christmas story of Jesus’s birth, exploring what the night might have been like if all the creatures and people celebrated the birth of Jesus in their own God-given ways. “There have actually been multiple studies done to show that generosity improves the emotion of the person receiving and the emotion of the person giving. It's actually a 3-fold that helps the receiver, the giver, and then the receiver also wants to pay it forward and love also and be generous.” – Jill Roman Lord. Jill’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Long story short, if someone's name and phone number are not in that contact list, they literally cannot talk to your child. A text can't come through; a phone call can't come through.” – Bill Brady. Bill Brady is the co-founder and CEO of Troomi Wireless, a mobile phone solution that provides kids with all the good they need from technology without pornography, predators, bullies, and social media. During this episode, Bill shares his personal journey as a parent of five and how it led him to develop a mobile phone solution that provides children with safe access to technology without exposure to harmful influences like social media, bullies, or inappropriate content. They discuss the importance of introducing technology to kids in stages and the positive impact of Troomi Wireless on children's mental and emotional well-being. He delves into the unique features of Troomi phones and how they can empower parents to protect their kids in the digital age. Bill also offers an exclusive discount code for Raising Christian Kids listeners! “It's got to be safe, but it's got to be flexible. So that's what we've done with Troomi. Parents can custom-fit it to the age and maturity of each of their children individually and give them all the stuff they need without the garbage.” – Bill Brady. Key Takeaways: Troomi Wireless: A mobile phone solution that provides kids with safe technology. Troomi’s goal is to create a super safe and flexible phone for kids, allowing access to vetted apps for school and promoting spirituality. Ability to customize the phone experience to match the child's needs. Safe listing feature for setting up contacts based on the child's age and maturity. Preventing access to harmful content and protecting kids from negative influences. Acknowledgment of the negative impact of social media on children's mental health and the alarming statistics of kids encountering mental health issues and isolation due to excessive social media use. A promotional code RCK listeners for $50 off the purchase of a Troomi device – use RCK at checkout! Troomi’s website, Instagram, and Facebook. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“In chaos, God sees perfection. In these moments of utter despair and brokenness, the most historic tragedy of my life, losing my dad and my family being crushed and broken, yet there was perfection, yet there was he saw us whole.” – Jake Freels. Jake Freels is a real estate developer, businessman, state champion football coach, avid outdoorsman, missionary, rodeo competitor, movie producer, overseer of men’s ministry, mentor to men & young men, and most importantly, an amazing dad and husband to his wife and four children. The most incredible thing about Jake, though, is not everything he does but the story of how he overcame the tragic loss of his dad when he was a child. This loss sent him spiraling out of control from ages 9 to 19. He then found hope, life, purpose, and healing when he met Jesus in college. During this episode, Jake shares his passion for mentoring men through outdoor adventures to connect them with God and bring about transformation in their lives. He emphasizes the importance of authentic encounters with Jesus, initiations into manhood, and the impact of the family table. He also introduces his new movie, "Multiplied," which aims to inspire a movement of worldwide revival. Key Takeaways: Jake's tragic loss of his father at a young age and transformation and hope through meeting Jesus in college. Platforms for reaching men – Irons in the Fire Producing men's events and gatherings, including a stadium event focused on uniting men as a force for positive change. Emphasizing the importance of men taking ownership for families and in society. Detailed account of the car accident that claimed his father’s life as well as his miraculous survival and intervention by divine presence. Understanding God’s vision during moments of despair and brokenness. The significance of seeking leadership and mentorship from other strong men, understanding God’s role in shaping men, and empowering them to lead and mentor others. Significance of the family table in building deep and authentic relationships. The release of the movie "Multiplied" about the legacies of influential Christian leaders and the call to support and attend the movie to spread the message of revival. Encouragement for men to step up and participate in the revival movement. Jake’s Resources: Multiplied Movie, Heart of Many Colors, Irons in the Fire Ministry, and Freels Designs. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“They need routine, they need protection, they need biblical truth, they need things labeled as what's God-honoring and not God-honoring behavior.” -Darby Strickland. Darby A. Strickland, MDiv, is a faculty member and counselor at the Christian Counseling & Education Foundation (CCEF). She is a contributor to Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the Abused and author of Is It Abuse? A Biblical Guide to Identifying Domestic Abuse and Helping Victims, the children’s book Something Scary Happened, and the mini book When Children Experience Trauma. She writes regularly for the Journal of Biblical Counseling. Darby and her husband, John, have three children. During this episode, Darby discusses the effects of trauma and abuse on children and offers valuable insight into how parents can support their children through difficult times. She shares tips on addressing trauma with children, the importance of open communication, and the role of faith in comforting and guiding children through tough situations. Additionally, she provides information about online counseling resources for families in need. Key Takeaways: Encouragement for parents to face hard truths with their children and the importance of addressing behavior as a clue to the child's struggles. Advice on how parents can communicate with their children about traumatic events. The influence of parental reactions on a child's experience of trauma. The importance of routine, protection, and biblical truth for traumatized children. Something Scary Happened can help children overcome fear by learning how to express and understand their fears. The free resources, blogs, and journal articles are available on ccef.org. When Children Experience Trauma is a mini book that can help parents help their children navigate their fears, guide them through their distress, and assist their recovery after a traumatic event. Darby’s Website, Facebook, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Being thankful means seeing that God is the source of all the things that we experience in life.” – Champ Thornton. Champ Thornton is an acquisitions editor at Crossway and the author of several books for kids and families, including The Really Radical Book for Kids, The Radical Book for Kids, Wonders of His Love, The Serpent Slayer and the Scroll of Riddles, A Five-Senses Countdown to Calm: You Count!, Why Do We Say Good Night, and Why Do We Say Thank You? During this episode, Champ discusses the importance of teaching children gratitude and thankfulness. He delves into the essential role of parents in connecting children to God in their everyday experiences. From fostering politeness to guiding emotional calmness, Champ has a treasure trove of resources for parents looking to cultivate strong Christian values in their children. Key Takeaways: Importance of teaching children gratitude and politeness. The storyline of the book Why Do We Say Thank You? - features a grumpy young boy who learns to be thankful and the transformation of the boy's perspective on gratitude through a dream sequence. The connection between boredom and gratitude. The role of parents in helping children recognize that everything comes from God. Ideas and suggestions for parents to help children recognize the role of God in their lives and the importance of integrating faith into everyday experiences. Organic ways to connect children to God in their daily lives. A Five-Senses Countdown to Calm: You Count! can help guide children to manage their emotions through sensory experiences. Addressing the importance of addressing spiritual topics, such as salvation and the existence of Satan, in children's literature. Champ’s Website, Instagram, and Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Once a month, Lori and Lee Ann will discuss complex topics regarding parenting and disciplining. Lori Wildenberg is a national speaker, a licensed parent-family educator of over 25 years, and an award-winning author of six Christian parenting books. Lori also leads the popular Moms Together Facebook Community Page and Group. During this episode, Lori and Lee Ann delve into the aspects of parenting prodigal children, offering guidance to parents navigating these challenges with faith and grace. Lori shares her insights on the different types of prodigals, drawing parallels from biblical examples to provide a multi-dimensional understanding of wayward children and give hope to parents grappling with despair and hopelessness while raising prodigal children. Key Takeaways: Reference to Luke 15:11-32, the parable of the lost son in the Bible. The importance of not overreacting to their behavior and choosing when to step in to pursue them or wait for them to return on their own. Encouragement to rediscover the "jewel" in your child's heart. The five different types of prodigals: The heart, soul, mind, body, and the reluctant. Biblical examples of each type of prodigal discussed: David, Aaron, Paul, the woman condemned, and Samson. Prodigal of the heart – David (Psalm 51:10) Prodigal of the soul – Aaron (John 8:12) Prodigal of the mind – Paul (Philippians 4:8) Prodigal of the body – the woman who was an adulteress (Romans 12:1) The reluctant prodigal – Samson (Proverbs 8:13) The importance of praying for them and trusting in God's transformative power. Emphasizing hope for parents with prodigal children, regardless of the duration of their absence. Resources: Help! I Have a Prodigal, by Judy Slay. Praying for Your Child from Head to Toe, by Sharon James. Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home, by Lori Wildenberg. Lori’s Website, Facebook, Moms Together Facebook, Moms Together Facebook Group, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“I want them to know just how much God loves them, how that is demonstrated again and again in the stories in the Bible, and how he loves when we come to him with our emotions, with our needs, tell him what's going on, come to him to ask for forgiveness. That he loves to connect with us through prayer anytime and anywhere.” – Laura Sassi. Laura Sassi has been a teacher, homeschool mama, children’s ministry director, and more. She is the author of multiple children's books, including Christian Book Award finalist Goodnight Ark, Love is Kind, Bunny Finds Easter, My Tender Heart books, and more. She’s also written poems and stories for various children’s publications, including Spider, Highlights for Children, and Clubhouse Jr. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, two children, and an adorable cockapoo named Sophie. During this episode, Laura discusses her heartwarming books and the valuable resources that accompany them. She shares her passion for connecting children with God's love through her books and offers insightful tips on helping families incorporate biblical concepts into their children's lives. Laura also shares what families can learn from her interactive board book series, which includes My Tender Bible, My Tender Heart Prayer Book, and a devotional book coming out soon. By weaving heart moments into her work, Laura emphasizes the significance of connecting daily experiences with God's love and teachings, empowering families to cultivate a genuine and enduring faith in their children. Four tips for teaching biblical concepts to young children: Tip 1: Prioritize your own spiritual growth first. It's hard to guide your children if you're not feeding yourself spiritually. Tip 2: Pray for teachable moments and be on the lookout for ways to connect everyday experiences to biblical concepts. Tip 3: Use great resources like Bible storybooks and picture books to share biblical stories with your kids, especially during bedtime. Tip 4: After reading a Bible story, take a moment to connect its message to everyday life, reinforcing the concept of God's love and forgiveness. Laura’s Website & Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“If we really start undergirding kids with a biblical worldview and showing them how these other worldviews really don't align with reality, then a lot of those questions will go away because they don't have the bad assumptions to begin with.” –Hillary Morgan Ferrer. Founder and Mama-Bear-in-Chief of Mama Bear Apologetics, Hillary Morgan Ferrer, is passionate about providing accessible apologetics resources for busy moms. She is the co-author and general editor of the bestselling book Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies and the recently released Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality. She holds a master’s degree in biology, and she and her husband, John, have been married for 15 years and minister together as an apologetics team. During this episode, Hillary delves into the important topic of helping children discern truth from lies, specifically in the context of sexuality and cultural influences. She shares insights on empowering kids to challenge cultural norms while upholding biblical truth, as well as practical tips for parents to guide their children through these complex issues. “Interest, personality, and style are on a spectrum. Gender is not." – Hillary Morgan Ferrer. Key Takeaways: Social attitudes and beliefs surrounding sexuality. Confusion, mental well-being, and helping children discern truth from lies. Categorizing questions based on ideologies. Undergirding kids with a biblical worldview. Addressing naturalism, postmodernism, and Marxism. Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies serves to equip parents to teach kids how to form their own biblical beliefs about what is true and what is false. Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality is a comprehensive tool for discussing false teachings regarding gender, same-sex marriage, and pornography. Reasons for children's confusion and refusal of biblical truth and the impacts of societal messages on children's perception and identification. Awareness of parental influence on children's perspectives. Deconstructing agendas without diminishing individuals while educating children to think critically and biblically. Repeating maxims to counteract lies and the importance of familiarizing children with truth. Encouragement for nervous parents to engage in the topic of sexuality. Hilary’s Facebook & Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“I think parents today, more than ever, tend to really want their kids not to experience pain or anything negative. And I think that's understandable in the short run, but in the long run, it really hurts them because all of a sudden, they're out in the real world and have a job and, and something bad happens, they don't know how to handle it.” – Steve Hines. Steve Hines is the author of the recently released book Salt, Light, and Kids: Parenting Well in Today's Culture, as well as a lifelong entrepreneur and musician. Church of the Highlands founding pastor Chris Hodges wrote the book's foreword. In the book, Steve talks about how to raise up good kids who are salt and light to our ever-darkening world. Steve lives with his wife, Leigh Ann, in Nashville, where their children, spouses, and grandchildren live. During this episode, Steve discusses the many parenting challenges in raising children in today's culture. He sheds light on the impact of technology, social media, and social influences on kids and shares valuable insights from his book Salt, Light, and Kids: Parenting Well in Today's Culture. He emphasizes the importance of awareness, wise parenting, and the need for parents to guide their children in a rapidly changing world. Key Takeaways: Confusion and desensitization caused by the media and social media. Increased hate, school shootings, and availability of negative influences due to technology. Importance of awareness and the need for parents to be aware of the content their children are exposed to. Balancing the role of parents as protectors and allowing children to experience hardships and learn from mistakes. Importance of parents being parents and teachers being teachers and the dangers of teachers crossing into parenting roles by influencing children with non-academic subjects. The potential impact of early exposure to certain ideologies and beliefs on children. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Let’s help our children become influencers for Christ! Tessa Emily Hall is an award-winning author who wrote her debut novel when she was sixteen. She is now a multi-published author of Christian books for teenage girls, including her latest release, INFLUENCER. Her unwavering passion lies in inspiring young women to embrace their unique potential within God’s kingdom. Driven by her dedication to providing clean teen fiction, she launched Illuminate YA Fiction in 2017—a teen fiction imprint formerly associated with LPC Books. Learn more about Tessa here! During this episode, Tessa talks about her book, INFLUENCER, and how it inspires teens to embrace their unique potential within God's kingdom. Tessa shares her journey as a writer and an actress in the faith-based film industry and discusses the importance of helping teenagers discover their purpose in life. Key Takeaways: The importance of teenagers embracing their unique potential within God's kingdom. Tessa's desire to show teenagers how they can make a significant impact within their sphere of influence. The influence of peer pressure on teenagers and the importance of being influencers for Christ. Importance of parents demonstrating the fulfilling nature of a relationship with Christ and showing Christianity as more than just a religion. Suggestions for parents to help teens envision their future with and without Christ. The significance of pursuing a relationship with God before entering a romantic relationship. Connecting the concept of romance to the type of relationship God wants to have with his children. Encouraging teens to create habits that foster a relationship with Jesus through daily prayer, worship, and reading the word. Emphasizing the importance of intentional time with God and being part of a supportive community. Highlighting the influence of the people one surrounds themselves with and the importance of a solid foundation in their faith. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Some of these hidden behaviors that we talk about are gossip and forgiveness, criticizing others, judging others. And these are all things that God talks about in His word and how to handle these things. And His word is the greatest authority.” – Dr. Magdalena Battles. Dr. Magdalena Battles has a Ph.D. in psychology, a master’s degree in professional counseling from Liberty University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. After the completion of her doctorate in 2005, she went on to post-graduate studies at Harvard. She is a licensed professional counselor and specializes in the treatment of grief, parenting issues, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, OCD, and relationship issues. Dr. Battles is also a writer and conference speaker. She has three books published- Let Them Play: The Importance of Play and 100 Child Development Activities, 6 Hidden Behaviors that Destroy Families: Strategies for Healthier and More Loving Relationships, and 10 Time-Saving Tips for Busy Parents. During this episode, Dr. Battles shares wisdom and practical tips on equipping parents with the necessary tools they need to nurture faith, foster healthy family dynamics, and address sensitive issues with love and understanding. She emphasizes the importance of relying on the word of God for guidance in addressing behaviors that can harm family dynamics. She discusses six hidden behaviors that can detrimentally impact families, such as failure to forgive, criticism, and gossip, and offers strategies backed by biblical principles for addressing these issues. Dr. Battles provides time-saving tips for busy parents, emphasizing the significance of establishing a family mission statement, letting go of perfection, and utilizing organizational tools like calendars and to-do lists, which can help manage the demands of a busy family life. She also addresses a common critical issue of a child's fear of not entering heaven. She sheds light on the concept of intrusive thoughts and scrupulosity. She offers guidance on how parents can support children dealing with such fears and intrusive thoughts, stressing the importance of acknowledging but not engaging with unwanted thoughts and seeking professional help if necessary. Dr. Battles Website & Facebook. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“We have to make sure we don’t make a feature of who we are the foundation of who we are. Race is a feature, but Christ is the foundation. Gender is a feature, but Christ is the foundation. But when we take political sides, and we make features foundations, that’s when we see the arguing and the bickering, and we begin to go against the oneness in unity.” -Jerome Gay Jr. Jerome Gay Jr. is the founding and teaching pastor of Vision Church in Raleigh, NC. He has a vision to see gospel-centered churches planted, disciples multiplied, missionaries unleashed, and theologically sound and culturally engaging leaders raised up and sent out to impact the world with The Gospel. He is the author of African Heroes, The Whitewashing of Christianity, Church Hurt, and the mini-book Talking to Your Children about Race. During this episode, Jerome discusses the importance of addressing race issues with children and how to teach them about the African American heroes in Christian history. He touches on the impact of historic whitewashing and the biblical approach to engaging in discussions about race. Key Takeaways: Emphasis on celebrating the rich history of Christianity in Africa before colonization. His children’s book African Heroes celebrates Christian history and teaches children about the early church's African roots. This book focuses on African heroes' courage, tenacity, and strength, highlighting the stories of Perpetua, Felicity, and Athanasius. Encouragement for children to see beyond skin color and focus on God's creation of mankind. The importance of equipping parents to teach children about race with gentleness and respect. Navigating differences without being disrespectful. Exploring a section of his mini book Talking to Your Children about Race that addresses social issues and acknowledging imperfections while still showing appreciation for specific groups. Jerome’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Sharon Jaynes has been encouraging women through ministry for over twenty-five years. She is the author of 24 books with Harvest House, Moody Publishers, Baker Books, Multnomah Publishers, and Thomas Nelson. Sharon is a frequent guest on radio and television programs and currently writes for Proverbs 31 Ministries' Encouragement for Today devotions. Sharon co-founded Girlfriends in God, Inc., a non-denominational ministry that crosses generational, denominational, and racial boundaries to bring the Body of Christ together as believers. During this episode, Sharon discusses the sixteen areas of prayer from her book, Praying for Your Child From Head to Toe. She also talks about using landmarks when we pray and how Jesus taught his disciples using landmarks, and we can do the same for our children. Sharon shares her passion for encouraging and empowering women to walk in courage and confidence as they grasp their true identity as children of God and co-heirs with Christ. Key Takeaways: The importance of covering children in prayer from head to toe using Scripture. 16 areas of prayer: Mind: Praying for thought life and renewing of the mind. Eyes: Praying for what they look at and the influence of visual stimuli. Ears: Praying for discernment in what they listen to. Mouth: Praying for the power of their words and being good examples. Neck: Praying for wise decision-making. Shoulders: Praying against fear and casting worries on the Lord. Heart: Praying for what they love and are passionate about. Back: Praying for spiritual and physical protection. Arms: Praying for strength. Hands: Praying for the development of their gifts and talents. Ring finger: Praying for their future spouse. Sides: Praying for influential friendships and relationships. Sexuality: Praying for sexual purity and identity. Legs: Praying for standing on the truth of God. Knees: Praying for a humble relationship with God. Feet: Praying for the path they take in life and following God's plan. The fear and worry present in children due to current challenges and societal dangers. The need for consistent, daily prayer for children in a changing world. Using the 16 areas of prayer as landmarks for targeted and comprehensive prayers. Jesus' teaching on prayer as a pattern for creating our own prayers. Sharon’s Website, Facebook, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“And this was a pretty in-depth survey. So, the fact that over 1,000 women took it was amazing, and I wanted to know how much mom guilt was affecting them, and 96% of women said it was." -Alli Worthington. Alli Worthington, known for her straight-talking encouragement and practical tools that help women reach their dreams in business and life, is the author of five books, including The Year of Living Happy, Fierce Faith, Breaking Busy and her latest Remaining You While Raising Them. She is a speaker, podcaster, and life and business coach who launched Called Creatives, a cohort of women speakers and writers. Alli Worthington shines a light on the prevalent issue of mom guilt and the immense pressure parents face in the modern world of social media. She shares her wisdom on how mothers can navigate this overwhelming landscape, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and embracing their individual mothering styles. She unpacks the concept of the five mom superpowers and the significance of understanding and leveraging one's strengths in raising children. Alli's reassurance that each parent possesses their unique superpower in nurturing their kids and Lee Ann's encouraging perspective offers a beacon of hope for those struggling with guilt and self-doubt as they navigate the challenges of Christian parenting. Key Takeaways: How the impact of social media and comparing it to other mothers leads to mom guilt. The impact of social media on children, especially teenage girls. Description of the five mom superpowers: caring mom, ride-or-die mom, protector mom, idealist mom, and cheerleader mom. The importance of identifying one's strengths in motherhood and acknowledging the potential for mothers to have a mix of superpowers. Mothers' self-assessment, setting realistic expectations, reminding ourselves of the true qualities of a great mom. Encouragement for mothers to feel empowered and not let mom guilt destroy them. Alli’s Website & Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“When we teach girls that they are at least partially responsible for boys' sin, they're far more likely to marry an abuser because we're teaching them it is normal for boys to lust after you and treat you badly.” -Sheila Gregoire. Sheila Wray Gregoire is a sought-after speaker and the face behind ToLoveHonorandVacuum.com, the largest single-blogger marriage blog. She's also an award-winning author of nine books, including The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex and She Deserves Better. With her humorous, no-nonsense approach, Sheila is passionate about changing the evangelical conversation about sex and marriage to line up with kingdom principles. During this episode, Sheila Gregoire shares shocking statistics and research associated with toxic teachings on sex, self-esteem, and speaking up for oneself. She emphasizes the impact of purity culture on young girls and the unintended consequences of certain teachings in the evangelical world. Whether it's the correlation between modesty messaging, the likelihood of marrying an abuser, or the alarming statistics on sexual assault within church communities, Sheila sheds light on crucial issues that parents and church leaders must address. Key Takeaways: The need to raise children with discernment to resist toxic teachings. The importance of self-esteem and its connection with self-love. Addressing the misconception that placing importance on self-esteem can be detrimental to teaching children to be self-sacrificial like Christ. Sheila explains the significance of self-esteem in fostering healthy relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. Identifying indicators that suggest a likelihood of marrying an abuser based on the research data. The correlation between teachings related to modesty and the likelihood of marrying an abuser. The impact of low self-esteem and its association with abuse and negative sexual education. The emphasis on sex, modesty, purity, and virginity within Christian teachings. The detrimental effect of placing worth in virginity and the importance of reassessing the teaching approach. Advocating for children to speak up against toxic teachings in church environments is necessary. The importance of teaching children at home and fostering an open dialogue to address any concerning teachings encountered in church. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

"We want our kids to feel safe. We want our kids to feel secure. We want our kids to feel loved." -Lori Wildenberg. Once a month, Lori and Lee Ann will discuss complex topics regarding parenting and disciplining. Lori Wildenberg is a national speaker, a licensed parent-family educator of over 25 years, and an award-winning author of six Christian parenting books. Lori also leads the popular Moms Together Facebook Community Page and Group. During this episode, Lori and Lee Ann discuss the crucial topic of emotional safety for children. They emphasize the importance of understanding a child's emotional age, being trustworthy with confidential information, and handling small irritations with patience. They also emphasize the significance of exhibiting sympathy and empathy and being on the same team as their children when dealing with challenging situations. These insights and practical tips aim to help parents foster emotional security, build connections, and cultivate a safe and loving environment for their children. Key Takeaways: Understand a child's emotional or intellectual age, not just their chronological age, and its impact on emotional safety and well-being. Importance of keeping children's confidential information private and the potential effects of breaching trust with personal information. Support children through difficult times and understand their personal struggles. Handle irritations and strategies for maintaining calmness and patience during these inconveniences. Normalize mistakes and offer assistance. Avoid comparison among children and embrace each child's unique strengths and weaknesses. Nurture respectful disagreements and encourage open and respectful communication about differing opinions. Validate children's right to express their thoughts and embrace their individuality. Protect their emotional safety from external factors such as a bully. Provide and demonstrate sympathy and empathy for them when they share their conflicts with you. Lori’s book, The Messy Life of Parenting: Powerful and Practical Ways to Strengthen Family Connections. Lori’s Website, Facebook, Moms Together Facebook, Moms Together Facebook Group, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“So, making digging comments about, ‘I wish your dad would take you to church. I wish your mom would let me take you to church,’ all those things are going to divide you from that that adult child that you're trying to draw to Christ." -Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield. Three women of Christ on a mission, Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, Rhonda Stoppe, and Lee Ann Mancini, have joined together to share empowering Godly advice, information, and encouragement for everyone who is raising the next generation of warriors for Christ. Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield is a national speaker, author, podcaster, and a licensed professional counselor of 27 years. Rhonda Stoppe is a best-selling author, speaker, and podcaster who has helped countless women build “no regrets lives”! During this episode, all three ladies discuss the role of grandparents in influencing their grandkids for Christ, especially when the parents may not be believers. The insightful conversation touches on the challenges parents and grandparents face and the strategies that can be used to connect grandchildren to their faith. Rhonda shares powerful insights on approaching this delicate situation with love and respect, emphasizing the importance of building genuine connections, avoiding judgment, and living out a Christ-like example, even when faced with challenging circumstances. Dr. Michelle shares her personal journey as a step-grandparent, offering a poignant portrayal of the impact of authentic faith and love in her relationship with her step-grandchildrens. Rhonda, Michelle & Lee Ann also touch upon the following takeaways: Supporting and respecting the non-believing spouse. Finding ways to be involved in your grandkids' lives without repelling the unsaved spouse. Emulating Christ’s love through actions, behavior, and prayers. Living an authentic and genuine faith in front of stepkids. Asking step-grandchildren about their needs and keeping a prayer book. Hosting cousin camp focused on fun and faith and building close-knit relationships among cousins. Upholding and promoting an uplifting and drama-free family environment. Finding time and prioritizing family over busy schedules and commitments. Being involved in grandchildren’s activities, co-op, and classes. Sharing personal experiences and real-life stories with grandkids. Resources: Rhonda Stoppe’s books & Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield’s books. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Our vision is that the next generations may know, honor and treasure God, setting their hope in Christ alone so they may live as faithful disciples for the glory of God.” -Sally Michael. Sally Michael is a co-founder of Truth78 and has authored curricula and books marked by a passion for developing God-centered resources for children's spiritual development. For 16 years, she served as a minister for children at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, under the leadership of John Piper and her husband, David. Sally and David live in Indianapolis, Indiana. They enjoy spending time with their two adult daughters and three grandchildren. During this episode, Sally talks about her organization, Truth78, and the critical role of creating biblically faithful material to raise the next generation to know and love God. Key Takeaways: Truth 78 is a ministry dedicated to serving the next generation by inspiring and equipping families through comprehensive discipleship practices. Its vision is to instill in children a profound knowledge, honor, and reverence for God and to guide them in living as faithful disciples for the glory of God. Mothers: Disciplers of the Next Generation is a booklet that empowers mothers to take on the vital responsibility of leading their children toward salvation and nurturing their growth in faith. Helping Children to Understand the Gospel is a booklet designed to assist parents in preparing children to comprehend and respond to the gospel within the context of their spiritual development. Her book The Very Bad News & The Very Good News, tailored for children aged 4 to 7, serves as a tool to help teach children that even though the bad news is that people have sin in their hearts, there is sickness and death, problems and pain, there is good news that God sent his only son to take all of this away from us. It offers a simple gospel presentation using the overarching themes of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Her new book series, Bible Verses to Remember, is geared toward teaching preschoolers the art of scripture memorization. The three parent pages at the end of each book challenge parents to prioritize the spiritual nurture of their children, teach parents how to use the book to instruct children’s minds to engage with their hearts, and show how to help children apply these Bible verses in everyday life. The five-step process for helping children memorize scripture is to reference the verse, repeat the verse, repeat the reference, review the verse, and discuss the verse. Truth78’s social media: Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“All over the world, people have heard of Noah's Ark because there are flood legends and cultures all over the world, and we've got all these different Noah's Arks that are from all these different cultures around the world.” -Ken Ham. Ken Ham is the founder and CEO of Answers in Genesis and its two popular attractions: the acclaimed Creation Museum and the internationally known Ark Encounter, which features a life-size 510-foot-long Noah’s Ark—sometimes described as the “8th Wonder of the Modern World.” Each year, the two attractions host over 1.5 million guests. A much-in-demand Christian speaker and interview guest, Ken Ham became well known throughout America for his 2014 evolution/creation debate with Bill Nye, TV’s “The Science Guy.” Ken and his wife Mally have five children and 18 grandchildren and reside in Northern Kentucky. During this episode, Ken shares exciting updates at the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter and new resources geared towards Christian parenting from Answers in Genesis. Ken unveils the addition of a Torah scroll and a collection of Noah's arks at the Ark Encounter. These tangible, immersive experiences offer families an engaging way to delve into the depths of biblical history. Ken further discusses Answers In Genesis's educational resources, highlighting the newly introduced curriculum, Mrs. C, designed to educate young children about the 7 Cs of history from Genesis to Revelation. This innovative approach serves as a valuable tool for parents, teachers, and church leaders to lay a strong biblical foundation in children's formative years. Ken also touches on a new resource, Lily's Lab, which unveils a captivating way to address children's questions about faith. The fun and relatable approach to addressing children's queries adds a new dimension to Christian educational content, aiming to engage young minds in a meaningful dialogue about faith. Both Lee Ann and Ken discuss the significance of molding a child's worldview from a young age, particularly in the face of an increasingly anti-Christian culture. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

"When we teach them the basic narratives of what the Bible says, we are forming their worldview at the very youngest age and giving them a set of glasses through which they can look at the world for the rest of their life.” – Jared Kennedy. Jared Kennedy serves as an editor for The Gospel Coalition and is the co-founder of Gospel-Centered Family, a ministry that helps churches and families share Jesus with the next generation. He’s the author of Keeping Your Children’s Ministry on Mission, God Made Me for Worship, The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible, and the Beginner’s Gospel Story Book series. He is also the co-author of Faith Builder Catechism. He’s helped to develop two VBS programs, Proof Pirates and Clap Your Hands, Stomp Your Feet. He and his wife, Megan, and their three girls attend Sojourn Church Midtown. During this episode, Jared shares a fresh and effective approach to drawing preteens and teens into the word of God by incorporating gaming language and engaging their interests while staying true to Christian teachings. He discusses foundational principles of nurturing faith in children and shielding them from the secular world to help them build a biblical worldview as early as possible. Jared emphasizes the influence of establishing habits, patterns, celebrations, and community involvement in shaping a child's faith. He underscores the significance of engaging children in the church community, guiding them to navigate secular influences critically, and acknowledging the presence of sin in their hearts—an important aspect often overlooked in parenting. Jared also highlights The Gospel Coalition and Gospel Centered Family's mission and purpose: to promote gospel-centered resources for church leaders and parents to pass the faith to the next generation. Amongst some of his amazing books, he talks about Faith Builder Catechism, which he co-authored, and how it is a valuable tool aimed at parents, offering a unique and engaging way to teach core Christian doctrines to children aged 8 to 12, using simple language and a gaming-themed approach. Another one of his books, TheBeginner's Gospel Story Bible for toddlers and young children, serves as a resourceful Bible book presenting 52 stories that vividly portray the biblical narrative. Resources: The Gospel Centered Family website, Jared’s Instagram, & Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“MOPS has done a really good job in making women and mothers the best leaders and the best volunteers for their community. So, I will say community with peer-to-peer connection, spiritual growth, and leadership growth are the three main benefits of being part of a MOPS group.” -Karla Merrell. Karla Merrell is a mother, former attorney, TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, and the Southeast Church Engagement Manager for MOPS International. She listened to God’s call when she was called to serve women first as a member, then as a volunteer, and ultimately came into working with MOPS full-time. She cultivates relationships with churches in the Southeast region of the United States to spread the MOPS mission and start more communities for mothers. During this episode, Karla discusses the transformative mission of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and the exciting new changes in the program, now known as The MOMco. She shares the inspiring journey of MOPS, which began in a living room with seven mothers in Denver, Colorado, over 50 years ago. It has since impacted over a million women annually, leading to 49,000 mothers embracing Christ in the past seven years. Karla also discusses the benefits of MOPS, now called The MOMco, including fostering a community for moms in various stages of motherhood, providing a safe space for spiritual growth, and empowering women to become impactful leaders in their communities. Key Takeaways: Overview of MOPS nonprofit organization and its mission to encourage and equip moms of all ages. MOPS's impact on mothers in various stages of parenthood and their collaboration with local churches. Benefits of being a member of MOPS (The MOMco): Community and peer-to-peer interaction. Spiritual growth and support for faith. Empowerment and leadership development for mothers. Process for churches to bring MOPS program to their communities. Emphasis on creating a welcoming space for mothers and their children. Transition to The MOMco: The evolution of MOPS to encompass mothers beyond the preschool years and encourage mothers to age with the group and not leave the group because their children have aged. Standpoint is a Christ-centered organization focusing on bringing mothers closer to Jesus. MOPS Instagram & Facebook. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“I really want, when my children are failing, to know that it’s not about me and my anger, but it is about them and their need for growth. And I do believe in consequences, but I believe in consequences delivered from a calm mind and a calm heart.” – Michelle Nietert. Licensed Professional Counselor of 25 years, Michelle Nietert is the best-selling coauthor of the books Managing Your Emojis, God, I Feel Sad, God, I Feel Scared, Loved and Cherished, and the award-winning book for adults Make Up Your Mind. She leads a team of counselors as the clinical director of Community Counseling Associates in the Dallas, TX, area. In this second part of the two-part episode series, Michelle addresses children's emotional struggles and the importance of parents understanding and empathizing with these challenges. She offers valuable insights on how parents can listen to their children without resorting to lecturing and the significance of allowing kids to express themselves while guiding them toward making their own decisions. Michelle emphasizes the significance of staying calm during emotional moments and techniques to help parents and children regulate their emotions and discipline in a calmer way that won’t leave the parents with regret or the children with anger. Michelle elaborates on these key takeaways: Children's emotional struggles don't mean they don't love God. Sometimes, kids are more afraid to tell parents their emotions because they fear they will disappoint them. Parental understanding of the impact of hormones and brain development on emotions. Teaching children about self-control as a fruit of the spirit. Recognizing that children's brains are not fully developed, especially in response to trauma. How to differentiate between a child's need for a break and wanting to escape a consequence. Addressing the impact of nonverbal communication on a child's perception. Encouraging repeat of instructions and follow-up to ensure children understand and are accountable. The importance of breathing exercises and breath regulation. Becoming a coregulator with children for emotional peace and cooperation. Physical calming techniques such as changing body temperature and physical touch. The importance of parents being the emotional compass for their children. Michelle’s Website, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Blog. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“It only takes about 90 seconds to acknowledge a feeling, where you feel it in your body, and then do a technique to release it.” – Michelle Nietert. Licensed Professional Counselor of 25 years, Michelle Nietert is the best-selling coauthor of the books Managing Your Emojis, God, I Feel Sad, God, I Feel Scared, Loved and Cherished, and the award-winning book for adults Make Up Your Mind. She leads a team of counselors as the clinical director of Community Counseling Associates in Dallas, TX. During this first part of this two-part episode series, Michelle talks about her practice and how it can help children and parents emotionally, physically, and mentally manage emotions and hopefully live healthier, happier lives. She also discusses two of her new books, Managing Your Emojis and God, I Feel Sad. Managing Your Emojis is aimed at teaching children practical ways to manage their emotions using scripture, stories, and prayers. The God I Feel Sad book series is designed to help children cope with big emotions and acknowledge their feelings. Michelle elaborates on these key takeaways: Practical ways for children to learn to manage their emotions. The impact of emotions on the body and the importance of addressing this in counseling. The importance of involving parents in the counseling process, including training parents in play therapy approaches. The risks associated with self-diagnosis and the need for professional guidance. The interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of mental health. Recommendations for parents to research and vet counselors, including asking for references and utilizing resources such as Psychology Today. The importance of finding a counselor who aligns with the family's beliefs and preferred counseling approach. Discussion of various coping techniques such as deep breathing and visualization. The importance of acknowledging and managing emotions rather than ignoring them and the potential consequences of ignoring or dismissing a child's emotions. Michelle’s Website, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Blog. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“The Bible says a lot about angels, and I wanted to communicate that to kids in such a way that they would be drawn to God's protecting power and not be afraid.” – Marty Machowski. Marty Machowski is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for over thirty years. He is the author of several family devotionals, curricula including the Gospel Story for Kids, children’s books, and parenting titles. His latest releases include Darkest Night Brightest Day, The Light Before Christmas, The Treasure, and Angels on Your Side. During this episode, Marty discusses two of his new books, Angels on Your Side and The Treasure, in hopes of serving as effective Christian resources for children of all ages. Marty’s ability to tell a story in an adventurous and fun way keeps children engaged while learning about Jesus. Key Takeaways: Angels on Your Side: When You Are Feeling Scared: A biblical exploration of God’s army of angels. Teaches children that angels are real, God uses angels to protect us on earth, and God is in control. It addresses children's fear and worry and presents God as the ultimate superhero; when a powerful angel is on your side, there’s no reason to be scared or worried. Helping children ages four to seven understand that God is always with them. The Treasure: The Ancient Story Ever Knew of Jesus and His Church: Solving a riddle of the ultimate treasure by studying two ancient scrolls, the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Description of the treasure hunt aspect of the book tied to understanding the hidden treasure ultimately revealed as Christ. It is written for elementary age and includes a study guide that can also be used with older children. Encourages families to study the Bible together and develop regular family devotions. Marty’s Website, Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

"Even in our imperfection, God uses us to teach and guide our children." -Lori Wildenberg. Once a month, Lori and Lee Ann will discuss complex topics regarding parenting and disciplining. Lori Wildenberg is a national speaker, a licensed parent-family educator of over 25 years, and an award-winning author of six Christian parenting books. Lori also leads the popular Moms Together Facebook Community Page and Group. During this episode, Lee Ann and Lori dive into the timeless wisdom and lessons that can be gleaned from the parents of the Bible. They discuss the stories of Abraham and Sarah, Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel. They explore the themes of trust, surrender, praise, and perseverance, drawing meaningful parallels to parenting in today's world. “I think dedicating our kids to the lord and being a person of our word is really important for our kids. And that integrity, I believe, spilled down into Samuel because he became Israel's greatest judge. So, he probably learned that from his mama.” -Lori Wildenberg. Key Takeaways: Abraham and Sarah: The importance of trust in the Lord's promises. Learning to trust and respond to God's will. Lessons in patience, perseverance, and trust through struggles. Mary, the mother of Jesus: Praising God and surrendering to His will amidst trials. Finding comfort and peace in God during adversity. Knowing God's word and standing firm in one's faith. Being present and supportive of your children during difficult times. Singing praise to the Lord during troubling times. Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel: Seeking God honestly and humbly in prayer. Letting go and trusting God to provide. Praising God in all circumstances. The significance of integrity and being a person of one's word. Lori’s Website, Facebook, Moms Together Facebook, Moms Together Facebook Group, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Are you looking for an organization that can help teach your child about God? Or, perhaps, learn more about God yourself? Andrew York grew up in a Bible-believing home and, at a young age, felt God's calling on my life to serve Him in evangelizing children. Andrew has served with Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) for 15 years in various technical positions. He currently serves as the Director of Communications & Marketing and the Director of Digital Ministries. Andrew met his lovely wife through CEF and was privileged to serve along with her in the organization. God has blessed them with three lovely young children. Andrew believes it is a joy to serve God in CEF as it strives to reach Every Child, Every Nation, Every Day. During this episode, Andrew discusses the organization Child Evangelism Fellowship and the programs it offers to bring children, teens, and adults closer to Christ. Andrew shares how the organization is evangelizing children and fostering their spiritual growth. He offers a glimpse into CEF's initiatives, including the Good News Club and 5-day Club programs designed to bring the gospel to young hearts and integrate them into local church communities. Key Takeaways: Evangelizing boys and girls with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Ambitious vision to reach every child, every nation, every day. Good News Club: A weekly program in public schools, reaching over 3,500 clubs in the US and 80,000 worldwide. 5 Day Club: Week-long summer program in parks and community centers, providing evangelistic outreach to children who may not attend a church. CMI Institute: Training individuals on effectively evangelizing children is essential for anyone wishing to share their faith with children. Resources for Parents: Devotional books and digital resources for family devotions. Unite TV: A free video streaming platform with Bible-based content. Kid's podcast and devotional book app for children to engage with God's word daily. Child Evangelism Fellowship Website, Facebook, & Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

"If you get caught sitting around tormenting yourself about how I could've done it better. I could be better. I'm doing it wrong. I feel guilty. Then you are not in the moment. So what you do is you gather up all of that guilt that you have, and you go, 'I give this to you too, God, because you bore my guilt. You bore my shame. You don't want me to wear it every day because it's a barrier to what I need to do with my children and how I need to love them.' So just brush it aside, just be in the moment and be present, knowing that God is your strength. He will help you. He will show you, and he can even take the mistakes that you made and turn them into blessings." -Linda Evans Shepherd. Linda Evans Shepherd, the mother of a gifted child as well as a special needs child who was in a year-long coma, is a prayer author who mentors 1000 Christian authors. During this episode, Linda shares her story, which can resonate with parents who may be navigating the complexities of raising children, particularly those with special needs or facing multiple demands. Linda opens up about her personal journey as a mother to a gifted child and a special needs child who experienced a year-long coma, shedding light on the power of prayer and finding joy in the midst of adversity. Linda discusses how faith and prayer can play a crucial role in overcoming and dealing with challenging experiences. She offers valuable insights and encouragement for those who may be struggling in their own parenting journey. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong connection with the Lord through prayer, especially during tough times. Key Takeaways: Lean on the power of prayer: Embrace the practice of prayer as a source of strength and comfort during challenging times. Remind ourselves that prayer can help us find joy and peace amidst the pain, suffering, and daily challenges of caring for our children. Release feelings of guilt: When we dwell on guilt, it can be a distraction from our vital role as caregivers. We can release guilt through prayer and focus on being present and attentive to our children's needs and well-being. Turn challenges into blessings: Seek opportunities for growth in difficult situations, knowing that God can bring positive outcomes from adversity. Seek support and community: Connect with supportive communities such as the Association of Christian Women Authors and Right to the Heart Ministries. Being part of a supportive network can provide us with encouragement, mentorship, and a sense of belonging during our parenting journey. Foster a relationship with God: Practice being aware of God's presence in our lives and have open, heartfelt conversations with God. The practice of talking to God about our concerns, needs, and joys can provide a strong foundation. Check out Linda’s prayer books here! RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“I believe anxiety is, obviously, a physical response that all of our bodies are capable of whether we have an anxiety disorder or not; it is a God-given gift in the sense because it's supposed to help take over when there's a threat in front of us; and so, I wanted the reader to feel seen in her anxiety and not feel ashamed of it.” – Courtney Devich. Courtney Devich is a mama relying on Jesus and reheated coffee every day. Using humor, honesty, and relatability, she writes with a heart for the mom struggling with anxiety or depression. Her writing has appeared in Her View from Home, TODAY Parents, and For Every Mom, among others. Courtney is a former human resource professional, using her leadership skills to manage kids as a stay-at-home mom. During this episode, Courtney talks about her personal journey as a mother navigating anxiety and depression while raising three children. She shares her struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and the overwhelming weight of motherhood, offering a raw and relatable perspective. Courtney delves into the pervasive effects of anxiety on parenting, emphasizing the potential for it to erode one's joy and fulfillment in the parenting journey. However, Courtney's story is one of resilience and hope as she articulates her journey back to joy through the steadfast foundation of her Christian faith. Courtney discusses her book, Mama’s Got Anxiety: But It’s Not Going to Steal Her Joy, and how she weaved humor and faith to hopefully help mothers deal with their forms of anxiety in parenthood. She emphasizes how anxiety and fear are not signs of weakness or sin, and it’s not something to be ashamed of. Mama’s Got Anxiety will hopefully help you learn: Strategies for overcoming anxiety and panic attacks. How to find joy in motherhood despite the challenges. Practical "baby steps" to take control of your thoughts and fears. Faith-based perspectives on dealing with these struggles. “And so, the readers, hopefully, when they finish it, will not let their anxiety cripple them in fear anymore and be able to take their joy back in motherhood.” – Courtney Devich. Courtney’s website, Facebook, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

When is it appropriate to teach children about reproduction and prenatal development? Tara Sander Lee, PhD, is Vice President and Director of Life Sciences at the Charlotte Lozier Institute. She is a Harvard-trained scientist with a PhD in Biochemistry and fellowship training in Cell and Molecular Biology. Before joining the Lozier Institute, she was an appointed faculty member at the Medical College of Wisconsin, a Scientific Director of Molecular Diagnostics at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and a scientific consultant. During this episode, Dr. Lee covers significant topics such as the appropriate age for discussing reproduction with children, the accuracy of prenatal genetic screening, and the importance of age-appropriate curriculum on prenatal development. Key Takeaways: Dr. Lee's work at the Charlotte Lozier Institute: Promotion of public understanding of the dignity of human life from conception to natural death. Scientific advice, education of legislators and the public, and policy advocacy to protect the unborn at an early stage. Collaboration with organizations emphasizing life-affirming biblical worldview. Prenatal genetic screening and its initial purpose to screen high-risk pregnancies for genetic disorders. Current widespread offering to all pregnant women regardless of risk, especially for rare disorders. High false positive rates even in low-risk pregnant women. Importance of using accurate scientific terminology from a biblical worldview to help children grasp reproduction. Introducing age-appropriate curriculum on reproduction and human prenatal development. Emphasizing the celebration and marveling at God's creation process is crucial in helping children understand human life and reproduction. Teaching children abstinence and helping them understand their identity in Christ. A proactive approach to discussing sensitive topics before children hear inaccurate information. Using graphic material to educate children about the associated risks of premarital sex. Two resources for teaching children about pregnancy, prenatal development, and the humanity of unborn children: The Voyage of Life & Contend Projects. Two resources Dr. Lee developed for teaching women about the limitations of genetic screening and prenatal diagnosis with life-affirming options if they do receive a prenatal diagnosis: False Positives in Prenatal Testing & PrenatalDiagnosis.org. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

God states in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord…” Whether in our personal or professional lives, having a well-thought-out plan allows us to focus on what needs to be done and when it needs to be done. And we can teach our children early why it’s important to plan and how to become good planners. During this episode, Lee Ann elaborates on these six reasons why planning is important: It clarifies where one is going and how to get there and helps identify the purpose and goal instead of feeling like we are wasting time. Planning helps optimize the use of our time, talent, and money and ensures that efforts are focused on activities that matter most, thus improving productivity. It helps us identify potential risks and challenges and minimizes uncertainties, thereby improving the chances of successful outcomes. Effective planning helps us prioritize tasks, set deadlines, delegate responsibilities, and track progress. It helps us to be ready to adapt to changing circumstances and allows flexibility in adjusting strategies, goals, and objectives. Lastly, it encourages teamwork and collaboration by promoting effective communication and coordination to achieve collective goals. Lee Ann also elaborates on these key takeaways on why children need to be good planners now so that they can become successful adults later: Good planning helps children establish productive daily routines and makes it easier for them to obey because they know what is expected. Learning to plan helps them prioritize tasks crucial for meeting deadlines, completing assignments, and managing their busy schedules as they grow older. Planning helps children take responsibility for their actions or inactions. It helps children learn problem-solving skills as they anticipate challenges and come up with solutions ahead of time. It helps children set goals and work towards achieving them; breaking down tasks into manageable steps and accomplishing goals fosters a sense of achievement. This helps to develop analytical thinking and problem-solving. Resources: “Goal Setting for Kids Resources” by Vibrant Christian Living, “The Scientific Method for Preschool Kids: It’s Easier Than You Think” by Early Learning Ideas, & “What Does the Bible Say About Planning?” by Church Fuel. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Having a godly marriage, which is loving with Christ's agape love, that selfless love, is the light of the gospel in your home.” -Rhonda Stoppe. Three women of Christ on a mission, Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, Rhonda Stoppe, and Lee Ann Mancini, have joined together to share empowering Godly advice, information, and encouragement for everyone who is raising the next generation of warriors for Christ. Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield is a national speaker, author, podcaster, and a licensed professional counselor of 27 years. Rhonda Stoppe is a best-selling author, speaker, and podcaster who has helped countless women build “no regrets lives”! During this episode, all three women discuss the crucial roles of mothers and fathers in shaping their children's faith and character. They stress the importance of authenticity and selfless love in the marital relationship, viewing it as a reflection of the gospel that profoundly impacts children's understanding of faith and love. They discuss the importance of exemplifying a loving, Christ-centered marriage when shaping a child's perception of faith. Rhonda passionately shares insights on raising sons to become godly men, emphasizing the need for understanding, nurturing talents, and guarding their hearts. She draws from personal experiences, offering practical advice for mothers navigating the journey of raising sons. Dr. Michelle shifts the focus to the father-daughter relationship, highlighting the vital role of fathers in positively influencing their daughters. She encourages fathers to actively listen, maintain eye contact, show kindness through their actions, and speak life into their daughters. She also explains how spouses can show humility to each other even when it is not warranted. Involvement, consistency, awareness, and nurturance are very important to a healthy, happy marriage and family life. “That's a great rule of thumb with women because we figure things out by talking on our planet. And the more you can draw her out, not only is she going to figure things out, but she'll bond with you in the process because you're taking the time to listen.” – Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield. Both ladies discuss the impact of authentic, selfless love in the home and how it can serve as a light for the gospel and positively influence the faith of the children. Additionally, the ladies stress the importance of prayer and Bible reading to connect with God as a family and always have joy in the household. Resources: Rhonda Stoppe’s books & Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield’s books. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

1 Peter 1:15-16 states, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” For us to be holy and to be able to teach our kids to be holy, we need to explain to them and help them understand what it means to be holy. We, as Christians, are set apart from sin because sin separates us from God and moral purity. However, we do sin, so how can we be set apart or holy like God? Only through faith in Christ. When we believe that Christ took the penalty for our sins, and His Holy Spirit dwells within us and guides us, we are now set apart and united with God. However, we will continue to sin while we are in the flesh. It’s the dual nature that dwells in us. Holiness is not just about following rules and regulations; it’s about being used by God for His purpose. During this episode, Lee Ann elaborates on how we can exemplify holiness for our children by showing humility, love, tolerance, discipline, peace, faithfulness, and mercy. To understand God’s holiness is always different from ours, God is: Infinite – he is self-existing. Immutable – he never changes. Self-sufficient- he has no needs. Omnipotent – he is all-powerful. Omniscient – he is all-knowing. Omnipresent – He is always everywhere. Deuteronomy 14:2 states, “You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and he has chosen you from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure.” Lee Ann also elaborates on these five suggestions to help children understand what it means to be holy: Be a role model. Help children understand the importance of upholding virtuous morality in everyday life. Practice regular prayer time and reading the Bible to be connected to the source of holiness. Encourage a desire to serve others. Help your child recognize their actions, motivations, and emotions, and guide them towards self-improvement. Resource mentioned: “Be Holy,” by Calvary Chapel. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Forget the lecturing. Let's move to listening. Forget the accusations and the assumptions. Let's move to asking questions. Rather than taking things personally, let's talk about what is the process underneath there.” – Lori Wildenberg. Once a month, Lori and Lee Ann will discuss complex topics regarding parenting and disciplining. Lori Wildenberg is a national speaker, a licensed parent-family educator of over 25 years, and an award-winning author of six Christian parenting books. Lori also leads the popular Moms Together Facebook Community Page and Group. During this episode, Lee Ann and Lori explore the critical issue of teens feeling heard and loved. They discuss how anxiety, depression, and bullying are affecting teens and the importance of parents being attuned to their children's struggles rather than taking their behavior personally. They share practical tips for fostering open and respectful communication with teenagers, emphasizing the significance of genuine connection over daily tasks. They also highlight the impact of social media and peer pressure on teens, suggesting family strategies and the power of prayer and faith to navigate these challenges. Key Takeaways: How to recognize the underlying causes of disrespectful or rude behavior in teens. The importance of fostering open communication and understanding the emotions underlying their behavior. The impact of parental behavior on a teen's conduct. The significance of initiating genuine conversations and being respectful towards teens so that they will mimic that same respect. The benefits on teens' behavior when parents create a loving and respectful atmosphere at home. How small gestures like physical touch and active listening can make teens feel heard. The importance of spending quality time and being present for teens. Nurturing a deeper understanding of a teen's interests and preferences. Implementing limits on social media usage and organizing family-based activities to reduce social media impact. Assisting teens in coping with peer pressure and promoting self-assurance and familial support. Encouraging teenagers to seek solace in prayer to address stress, worry, and anxiety. Instilling the concept of God's sovereignty to help teens handle external influences. Encouraging long-term perspective and empowering teens to release themselves from negative influences. Resources: Raising Big Kids with Supernatural Love, by Lori Wildenberg & Becky Danielson, and Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation, by Lori Wildenberg. Lori’s Website, Facebook, Moms Together Facebook, Moms Together Facebook Group, and Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

1 Corinthians 10:13 states, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” God provides a way out, and we want to make sure our children understand there is an escape route when they face temptation.” No matter who you are, sinful temptation lurks in the shadows, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. It's a constant battle, a test of willpower, and a struggle we and our kids face. There are ways to help our children understand temptation and know how to fight it appropriately. During this episode, Lee Ann touches upon some of the many temptations children face today that can be detrimental to our children’s physical, mental, and spiritual health, and what we can do to help them: The desire to be on social media constantly for likes, followers, and virtual validation – sharing inappropriate photos or videos, cyberbullying, or seeking acceptance. The temptation to cheat on a test or copy someone’s homework – plagiarism can be due to the pressure to excel or the competitive culture our kids live in today. Food commercials, easy access to fast food, decreased physical activity, and the desire for instant gratification from sugary snacks can lead to obesity and long-term health problems. The desire for the latest gadgets, fashion trends, or material possessions – kids want the newest and greatest stuff, which may create a sense of entitlement and can hinder their ability to appreciate the value of experiences over materialistic things. The temptation to experiment with drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is usually because of peer pressure – kids want to fit in and be “cool” or escape stress and problems. As parents and educators, it is essential to provide guidance, support, and education to help kids fight these temptations. Creating open lines of communication, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering a sense of self-worth and personal value can empower our children to make positive choices and resist harmful temptations. Children may not understand that temptation to sin can be triggered by a sinful desire. Make sure your child knows that everyone experiences temptation, and it's a normal part of life. Emphasize that even Jesus faced temptation but showed us how to resist it. Discuss each of the three temptations Jesus encountered: turning stones into bread, jumping off the temple, and worshiping Satan for worldly power. Help your child recognize common temptations before they arise and role-play the conversation. If we can help them develop self-awareness by recognizing emotions, thoughts, and triggers that entice them to sin, they can learn to keep themselves out of those tempting situations. Resource mentioned: “Understanding the Temptation of Jesus” by Pray.com. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Did you know that 1 in 4 boys do not have a father in their household? Mark Hancock is an author, award-winning writer, and conference speaker who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Trail Life USA. During this episode, Lee Ann and Mark discuss Trail Life USA and its mission to provide a Christ-centered, boy-focused alternative to the Boy Scouts. Trail Life USA can help cultivate godly character and leadership in boys while addressing the needs of single mothers and fatherless boys. Mark addresses the pivotal shift in organizations like Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, once rooted in Christian values, and how Trail Life USA emerged as a response to this cultural change. He shares insights into the powerful impact on both boys and men within the program, emphasizing the need for positive male role models in the lives of young boys, particularly those raised in single-parent households. Mark shares stories of boys finding brotherhood, Christian values, and mentorship within the program. Both Lee Ann and Mark discuss the importance of Christ-centered foundations that help boys navigate their unique challenges in today’s radical world. Mark elaborates on the following key points: Trail Life USA focuses on Christ-centered mentorship and leadership by older boys and Christian men in all activities. The many changes seen in boys including the development of Christian friendships and lifelong relationships. The nominal annual dues are $30, and participation is affordable. Church-based support to assist single moms and families in need. Flexible uniform options to accommodate families with financial constraints. A free resource offered on the Trail Life USA website titled "Raising Godly Boys." The proven 4-step process for turning boys into Godly men: identifying that boys struggle with being unguided, ungrounded, unappreciated, and uninspired. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Psalm 34:18 states, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” During this episode, Lee Ann Mancini delves into the important topic of helping children cope with grief and loss from a Christian perspective. With a compassionate and insightful approach, she shares eight essential ways to support children through the difficult emotions and challenges of grief, whether it's due to the loss of a loved one or other significant changes in their lives. She offers valuable guidance for parents navigating the complexities of helping their children find hope and healing during challenging times, such as watching a child mourn the loss of a loved one. Children express and cope with grief in various ways, often determined by their age and connection to the situation or person. The support they receive from family and friends is critical in navigating through this emotional journey. Lee Ann elaborates on the following eight ways to help children cope with the grief and the loss of a family member or friend: Use age-appropriate and clear language to explain the situation. Encourage them to share their feelings and share fond memories. Listen to their emotions without always offering advice unless they ask for it. Let your child take the lead in conversations and respect their emotional boundaries. Reassure them that time brings healing and their routine will remain stable. Encourage them to engage in healing activities like art, writing, or scrapbooking. Prepare them for condolences and affirm that they don't have to respond if they're not ready. During funeral services, ensure they're not pressured into anything that makes them uncomfortable. Rely on the word of God and read Bible verses or post them throughout the house. Let your children see your trust in God during this time. Matthew 5:4 states, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” And Revelation 21:4 states, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed.” We can remind our children about the comforting promises in the Bible and guide them toward the belief that their loved ones are in heaven, free from suffering. This is not only their belief but also the promise of God. As adults, we need to find healthy ways to deal with our grief and loss to help our children navigate through theirs. For more resources, Focus on the Family offers many resources on helping kids cope with grief and loss. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“But what we need to do is look at our children and realize from an eternal lens that God's got it. And his perspective is, ‘This is just a chapter in their story.’ And so, we must have that eternal lens and know that God is not finished with their story.” -Laine Lawson Craft. Best-selling and award-winning author Laine Lawson Craft, a Fort Walton Beach, Florida resident, wife, and devoted mom, has partnered with God as she turns the impossible into reality, not just in her life but also in the lives of thousands. Her unique perspective stems from overcoming a dead marriage and financial ruin and witnessing miraculous healings and deliverance in her family. Laine's newest book, The Parent’s Battle Plan: Warfare Strategies to Win Back Your Prodigal, ignites her passion for sharing her triumph over spiritual warfare with her prodigal children. During this episode, Laine and Lee Ann discuss her newest book, The Parent's Battle Plan, and provide practical insights and strategies for parents and grandparents navigating the challenges of Christian parenting with prodigal children. The Parents Battle Plan will help parents handle the emotional rollercoaster of trust, deal with a child’s bad choices, empower parents never to give up hope and trust in God, and encourage them to fight for their child’s future. Laine gives valuable perspectives on dealing with defeating thoughts, finding patience and perseverance, and gaining a divine perspective when facing the "meantime" phase. She also dives into the importance of acknowledging and addressing denial and the significance of seeking professional help when necessary. As Laine emphasizes the transformative power of faith and prayer, her message serves as a reminder that no prodigal child is ever too far gone. Her powerful testimony is a testament to God's redeeming love and grace. Her 3 Ps – patience, perseverance, and perspective – serve as guiding principles for anyone seeking to navigate the hardships of prodigal children. Laine’s resources: Website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, & Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

How can we teach our children to become responsible kids so they can grow up to be responsible adults? Discipline is vital in helping children learn to be accountable and responsible. And, as always, we rely on the word of God to help us when teaching our children about responsibility. Ultimately, we, as parents, want our children to follow instructions, be organized, manage time, manage emotions, control speech and actions, handle conflict wisely, choose friends wisely, and admit when they are at fault. During this episode, Lee Ann elaborates on the following eight ways we can help our children learn the importance of being responsible: Understand God's Commandments: The Bible provides a set of commandments and guidelines that teach children the importance of responsibility (Ref. John 14:15 & 1 Peter 1:14- 1 John 5:3). Utilize gifts from God: Children can learn to use whatever gift they have received to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. The Bible teaches children about stewardship, emphasizing that everything we have is a gift from God and we are to be responsible for taking care of the many blessings we must share with others (Ref. 1 Peter 4:10). Show accountability to God: Children need to grasp that they are accountable to their parents and God for their actions and words. Learning that God sees and knows everything can encourage children to behave responsibly, even when they think no one else is watching (Ref. Philippians 2:10-11 & Matthew 25:14-30). Honesty and integrity: Children are always taught to speak the truth, even when it is difficult or inconvenient. Responsibility and truthfulness help children develop a strong moral compass (Ref. 1 Timothy 3:9). Manage emotions and control speech and actions: The sooner we help our children learn that a responsible, respectful child can, in fact, manage their emotions with guidance and practice, the more we will see benefits now and later (Ref. James 1:19). Diligence and perseverance: We want our children to be resilient, work hard, be persistent, and not give up easily as success comes through effort, dedication, and being responsible. Follow instructions: We want them to accept tasks without grumbling or complaining (Ref. Ephesians 6:1 & 1 Corinthians 14:40). Manage their time: Responsible kids do their homework, go to bed, and get up in the morning without wasting time (Ref. Proverbs 21:5). The best way to teach our children how to be responsible is for us as parents to model what it looks like. And when we fail, be honest with our children and help them learn from our mistakes. Use this “Responsibility Checklist” to help your child to learn how to be responsible. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Aubrey Sampson, mother of three boys, serves as a teaching pastor at Renewal Church, a multiethnic congregation in Chicago, and Timberlake, a multisite church across the Seattle area. She is an author, coach, and cohost of the radio show The Common Good and the podcast Nothing Is Wasted. During this episode, Lee Ann and Aubrey discuss the importance of helping kids embrace their true identity in Christ and help them understand that God knows them and loves them no matter what. They discuss how Aubrey’s book, Big Feeling Days, can help little kids with big emotions know that God loves them and is right next to them, no matter what they feel. They also discuss her book, Known: How Believing Who God Says You Are Changes Everything, which helps kids understand and embrace what it means to be created and named in the image of God. Both ladies delve into the significance of feeling known by God and the impact it has on individuals, particularly in the context of parenting. Key Takeaways: Even Christians may struggle with feeling known by God. The concept of being known by God is foundational to the Christian faith. Exploring the idea of being made in the image of God and being deeply known by Him. The importance of experiencing the intimate love of God. Connecting the concept of being known by God to the idea of being the bride of Christ. Relating the concept of false naming to the story of the Garden of Eden Reasons why people may adopt false identities, such as trauma, lack of belief in God's love, and societal pressures. Common false names or identities people carry, such as "too needy" or "too emotional.” The notion that God wants to remove false names and reveal true identities. The significance of repetition and reminders for children about their identity in Christ The four rhythms of renewal are gospel, good neighbor, generosity, and growth. Aubrey’s resources: Website, Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Are you prepared to explain the meaning of being one with God to your children? Sometimes, children can have a hard time understanding concepts that are not concrete, like the Holy Spirit or the Holy Trinity. But these complex topics are some of the most important ones to teach our children so they can understand them early. Oneness is a word that means “a state of being unified or whole, unity of thought, feeling, and belief, a strong feeling of closeness.” As Christians, we feel one with the one true God as His Holy Spirit dwells within us and draws us closer to Him. “But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.” -1 Corinthians 6:17. Here are some tips to help you explain the meaning of oneness with God: Ask your child what they think oneness with God means – you may be surprised by their answer. This will allow you the opportunity to build upon their answer or correct any misconception. Emphasize connectedness – Jesus emphasized the importance of staying connected with the Father and his disciples (Ref. John 15:1-8). Teach empathy and compassion – oneness with God means treating others with kindness, respect, and love. Encourage your children to practice empathy and compassion towards their family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers without putting themselves in danger (Ref. Matthew 14:14). Cultivate gratitude – Jesus begins and ends his prayers with words of thanks and praise to his father, and in the Lord's Prayer, he taught his followers to do the same (Ref. Matthew 6:9-13). He even thanked God for the opportunity to sacrifice his life for the world (Ref. Matthew 26:26-27). Nurture spiritual practices – Jesus was baptized to fulfill all righteousness (Ref. Acts 1:1) and prayed often to the Father. Help your children create their own rituals or routines that foster a sense of oneness with God. Share stories and examples – use stories, parables, or examples of individuals who have exemplified oneness with God, such as saints, religious figures, or inspirational figures from various backgrounds. Lead by example – it’s the most powerful way to teach children the meaning of oneness with God as you embody these values in your own life. Model being one with God in your actions and attitudes, which will impact your child’s spiritual development. Create an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and spiritual exploration that allows them to cultivate their own relationship with the divine. Reference this article to help them understand how oneness with God can manifest in different ways: “Five Bible Characters Who Walked With God And What We Can Learn From Them,” by Glorify. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Three women of Christ on a mission, Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, Rhonda Stoppe, and Lee Ann Mancini, have joined together to share empowering Godly advice, information, and encouragement for everyone who is raising the next generation of warriors for Christ. Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield is a national speaker, author, podcaster, and a licensed professional counselor of 27 years. Rhonda Stoppe is a best-selling author, speaker, and podcaster who has helped countless women build “no regrets lives”! During this episode, all three ladies delve into the complexities of helping children manage their emotions, specifically anger. They discuss the misconceptions and underlying triggers behind a child's anger, shedding light on how parents can effectively guide their children through this common yet misunderstood emotion. Drawing from biblical teachings, personal experiences, and professional expertise, they share insights and advice on addressing children's anger in a manner that aligns with Christian values. Key Takeaways: The Importance of not labeling kids as "angry" or "drama queen.” Acknowledging and affirming children's feelings and proper techniques for calming down and processing anger. Utilizing bilateral stimulation and tactile activities for calming rhythms Addressing hormonal factors and mood swings in children. Role-playing and communication to manage family relationships. Modeling godly ways of processing anger for children. Understanding the difference between righteous and selfish anger. The importance of confessing sin and demonstrating repentance. Identifying and addressing personal triggers for anger. Understanding physiological responses and their impact on decision-making. The importance of separating behavior from identity in parenting. Encouraging children to communicate their emotions without fear of judgment. Resources: Rhonda Stoppe’s books & Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield's books. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Genesis 1:27 states, “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth.’” Have you ever heard of the word “theybies?” It’s a term that some parents assign to their babies so they are not identified with a specific gender. These parents are using gender-neutral names or pronouns such as they and them. Some children are born and raised in a Christian home and are identified as a boy or a girl but decide, later in life, that they don’t want to live according to their birth gender. How can we, as the body of Christ, support these children and their parents? And if it’s our children, what should we expect from our sisters and brothers in Christ? During this episode, Lee Ann elaborates on these suggestions regarding parenting children surrounded by dysphoria and transgenderism: Learn these terms for yourself first, and then explain these terms to your child. If you don’t know the answer, be honest and be willing to do the research. Ensure your child fully understands that they can come and discuss anything with you and that you will listen to them and guide them, not judge them or their friends. Explain to your child that we are to be respectful to all people – we are to emulate the love of Christ towards all people, even with those we don’t agree with. If your child is having a hard time understanding why someone would choose a transgender life, seek a Christian counselor who has experience specifically dealing with this issue. If you are a Christian parent of a transgender child, seek a biblically based church that will love and support you. Always express the love of Jesus. We are to love all our brothers and sisters and even our enemies. Christian hypocrisy confuses our children and can cause them to mistrust our words and actions if we misrepresent the true image of God. Luke 6:37 states, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." Resources mentioned: God Made Boys and Girls, by Marty Machowski, and “Biblical View on Transgender Identity: A Primer for Parents and Strugglers,” by Focus on the Family. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“Rather than making the child fit your mold, be flexible enough to be able to work with the child as to his age and stage and personality. And with the older kids, how great to have them perhaps read a verse. Get them involved in training in the teaching. So, you could have a situation where the older one has got the job of reading a verse, and the younger one maybe acts it out.” – Lori Wildenberg. Once a month, Lori and Lee Ann will discuss complex topics regarding parenting and disciplining. Lori Wildenberg is a national speaker, a licensed parent-family educator of over 25 years, and an award-winning author of six Christian parenting books. Lori also leads the popular Moms Together Facebook Community Page and Group. During this episode, Lee Ann and Lori dive into practical and insightful strategies for making devotional family time meaningful and less stressful, especially when dealing with young, energetic children. Both ladies will also discuss the benefits of individual and group devotional settings and share personal experiences of what they did with their children. Key Takeaways: Keep devotionals short and active to engage young children. Use action-oriented materials and activities to teach biblical concepts. Allow children to move and be active when doing devotions. Taking them to the playground or incorporating activities can help them learn and stay engaged. Tailor your approach to each child's unique personality and learning style. Be flexible and creative in how you involve each child. Take devotional family time outside the home to places like the zoo, museum, or nature spots - use these experiences to connect biblical teachings with the world around them. Incorporate biblical elements into daily routines, such as morning blessings, dinner conversations, and individual time with teenagers to discuss God's word. The goal is to make this time with God enjoyable, interactive, and meaningful, nurturing children's spiritual growth in a way that fits their age and personality. Lori’s social media: Website, Facebook Page, Moms Together Facebook Page & Group, Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

It's the most wonderful time of the year... Christmas is approaching, and there are so ways you can help your children create meaningful memories that will last a lifetime! From treasuring family time and building a nativity scene to engaging in acts of generosity and faith, Lee Ann offers practical and heartfelt advice for Christian parents seeking to instill the true spirit of Christmas in their children. With a focus on community service, spiritual enrichment, and the joy of giving, this episode resonates with anyone seeking to nurture a Christ-centered approach to the holiday season. Lee Ann also shares her childhood memories and explores ways to create meaningful and lasting Christmas traditions for children. Key Takeaways: Create meaningful Christmas memories: Take a lot of pictures throughout the Christmas season, create a nativity scene, engage in hands-on activities related to the birth of Jesus, and attend Christmas services or performances. Give back during Christmas: Encourage children to give important items they love to charity, create care packages for homeless families, send homemade cards to soldiers or elderly individuals, and bake cookies for nursing homes. Celebrate the birth of Jesus: Do fun December activities focused on biblical stories, and make placemats, cards, and advent calendars with biblical stories/themes. Resources and gifts for families this Christmas season: “Christmas Activities That Focus on Jesus,” by Focus on the Family. Purchase a child nativity advent calendar here. Purchase Scripture Bear here. Sea Kids Book & Animation Series. All of us at Raising Christian Kids wish you and your family a blessed Christmas season as you celebrate the birth of our savior. May this new year find you and your family well and safe. We hope and pray that we will continue to do our very best to serve you and your families. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“This provides parents with a very simple and fun and engaging guide to teach our kids that the bible has a solution for every problem we face. And so we cover 36 of the most common struggles that all kids face; we give you simple lessons, we give you biblical tools, and we give you fun family activities and discussion guides.” -Katie J. Trent. Katie J. Trent is a licensed clinical social worker, a respected leader in the Christian homeschool community, and the founder of Family Faith-Building Academy. She spent over a decade counseling children, teens, and families before transitioning to homeschooling and writing. During this episode, Katie discusses her latest book, Recipes for a Sweet Child. She offers valuable insights and practical tools for parents who are seeking to effectively disciple their kids and instill a strong faith from an early age. Katie emphasizes the importance of nurturing a healthy parent-child relationship as a foundation for effective discipleship. Her book offers strategies to integrate faith into everyday activities, such as baking and other fun family activities. By actively incorporating the teachings of the Bible into a child's life, parents can help them develop a solid faith that is resilient against the challenges of the world. Many parents feel overwhelmed or ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of raising kids with a strong faith. Katie's book and insights offer reassurance that nobody has to have all the answers immediately, and that a nurturing relationship with their children is the key to fostering open conversations and wrestling with tough questions. It can also help parents gain the confidence to navigate common struggles like disobedience and peer pressure, while instilling biblical principles in their children's hearts. Whether you are a seasoned homeschooling parent or part of a non-homeschooling family, this book can be incorporated into any family's life as it provides a flexible framework that allows parents to tailor the activities to their unique circumstances and needs. The devotionals and activities can be adapted for various ages, making them applicable to families with both young and older children. Katie’s website, Facebook & Instagram. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Do your children know how to respect biblical and social authority? During this episode, Lee Ann delves into the crucial topic of authority and its role in Christian parenting. Recognizing the prevalent lack of respect for authority in today's society, Lee Ann emphasizes the importance of teaching children to respect authority for their own well-being and their eternal journey. Lee Ann discusses social authority and biblical authority and how we can teach our children that both are important. She acknowledges that teenagers often question and challenge authority but reminds parents of their calling to rely on God's intervention and guidance during these challenging times. She shares practical strategies to help children comprehend the consequences of disrespecting authority, ranging from discussing real-life news stories to exploring personal experiences. By helping children personally relate to the effects of disobedience, they can learn to develop a genuine appreciation for authority and its role in maintaining order and safeguarding society. We can teach our children how authority enables the establishment of protective measures such as law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and regulatory bodies that safeguard society from various threats, such as crime, violence, accidents, and natural disasters. Social authority, when exercised justly, ensures fairness and equality. It prevents favoritism, discrimination, and abuse of power by providing checks and balances in our government. However, biblical authority establishes the foundation and significance of Christianity. The Bible, as the inspired word of God, holds the utmost authority in the life of a believer and serves as the ultimate guide for moral and ethical decision-making. It is the source of spiritual guidance, setting moral and ethical standards of righteousness and justice. It is important to help children understand that God’s word is true and that without respect for authority, they could bring harm to themselves and others. Here are a few of the many verses about biblical authority to go over with your children: Exodus 20:12, Romans 13:1, Hebrews 13:17, 1 Peter 2:13-14, and Titus 3:1. As parents, we can make sure our children respect family, societal, and, most importantly, biblical authority! Resources mentioned: “Preteen Ministry Lesson on Respecting Authority,” by Ministry to Preteens, and “Jesus Has Authority – Mark 1:21-28 Sunday School Lesson,” by Kristin Schmidt. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

“A guy that used to be a neighbor of ours is now head of pediatrics at the medical school, and he said, “Until you verify to me that your child is properly hydrated, they are well nourished with the right kind of nutrients, they're getting deep sleep, and they're moving every day. I will not pull out that prescription pad.” – Ginny Brant. Ginny Brant grew up in Washington, DC, where she served as a teacher, counselor, and adjunct professor for 28 years. She has written two award-winning books, Finding True Freedom and Unleash Your God-given Healing. During this episode, Ginny Brant addresses the common challenges parents face in the health industry and gives practical advice on healthy living for families. Key Takeaways: -Breaking free from unhealthy habits: Ginny highlights the need for parents and their children to prioritize healthy living by incorporating exercise, proper hydration, and nutritious eating into their daily routines. -Deep sleep and its benefits: She emphasizes the importance of deep sleep in rejuvenating the body and brain and how creating a sleep schedule that aligns with the natural circadian rhythm can greatly enhance overall health. -The inverted food pyramid: Ginny explores the concept of the inverted food pyramid, discussing the consumption of whole, plant-based foods as the foundation for a healthy diet. She also mentions the importance of limiting children’s exposure to added sugars and processed foods because they can have a profound impact on their long-term well-being. -Finding natural remedies for illness: She shares insights into finding healthy alternatives and natural remedies for common childhood illnesses and the many benefits of essential oils and other holistic approaches that can be used alongside synthetic medicines. -Integrative medicine: Various hospital systems are beginning to recognize the value of integrative medicine, combining conventional treatments with complementary approaches to enhance patient outcomes. Ginny shares her own experiences with an integrated approach to cancer treatment, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to healing and recovery. Ginny’s resources: Website, Facebook, Instagram & YouTube. RCK social media: Facebook Join our Facebook community group! Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.

Struggling to find age-appropriate Christian content for your kids? The Towers of Light series is an engaging and educational book series that brings biblical truths to life. Allen Brokken is a teacher at heart, a husband, and a father most of all. He began writing the Towers of Light series for his own children to help illustrate the deep truths of the Bible in an engaging and age-appropriate way. He’s dedicated 18 years to volunteer roles in children’s ministry and youth development. Now that his children are off to college, he’s sharing stories and clean humor on social media and his blog. During this episode, Allen shares his personal journey as a father and why he decided to write the Towers of Light series. With his own experiences of struggling to find meaningful ways to connect with his children amidst a demanding job, Allen found solace in storytelling and used it as a powerful tool to bridge the gap. Allen has created a unique avenue through his stories for parents to introduce complex theological concepts to their children effortlessly. Unlike other Christian children's series, Allen's books integrate realistic conversations about faith and an unwavering commitment to the truth found in the Bible. This approach eliminates the common pitfall of appearing preachy and allows children to actively participate in unraveling the mystery of their faith. Allen also offers additional resources to support Christian families. Recognizing the struggles faced by children with reading difficulties or dyslexia, he developed the Pathway audio player. This device, which contains locked-down content, offers a screen-free and distraction-free platform for children to listen to audiobooks and even explore the depths of God's word through audio Bibles. Allen's mission is to make discipleship accessible and engaging for all children, regardless of their reading abilities. Allen's Towers of Light series and innovative resources can help you draw your children closer to Christ! Allen’s Website & Social Media: Towers of Light, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, & YouTube. RCK social media: Facebook Facebook community group Instagram Pinterest Love this episode? Please leave us a rating/review and share this episode with a friend! You can find a list of all our episodes here.