→ 20% off Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals

→ Prayer Calendar

What does it actually mean to “train up a child in the way he or she should go”? In this episode, we unpack Proverbs 22:6 in a deeply practical and spiritually rich conversation. We outline a 5-part framework—demonstrate, instruct, apply, practice, and communicate—that equips Christian parents to train their children according to God’s Word.

From Scripture-based parenting moments at the dinner table to practicing respectful behavior in public, this episode offers biblical guidance and real-world examples to help you nurture your child’s heart, habits, and faith.

1 - Demonstration
2 - Instruction
3 - Application
4 - Practice
5 - Communication
*Bonus - PRAYER*

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Proverbs 22:6 and the foundation of biblical parenting
[00:01:00] – Step 1: Demonstration—Why living out your faith is the starting point
[00:03:00] – Step 2: Instruction—Teaching children scripture and leading them to wisdom
[00:13:00] – Step 3: Application—Bringing scripture into specific behaviors and choices
[00:18:00] – Step 4: Practice—Why repetition, joy, and connection deepen learning
[00:24:00] – Step 5: Communication—Clear expectations and behavior modeling
[00:28:00] – Prayer: The heart of it all—trusting God to change hearts, not just habits

3 Takeaways:

1. Biblical parenting begins with demonstrating authentic faith - Children are watching our daily lives more than they are listening to our words. Modeling godly character is the foundation for training them in truth.
2. Effective teaching includes instruction, application, and joyful practice - From quoting scripture during teachable moments to role-playing expected behaviors, parents can disciple their children through consistency and connection.
3. Prayer is central to parenting - Only God can transform hearts. While we are called to train and teach, it is the Holy Spirit who ultimately brings about lasting change in our children’s lives.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ 20% off Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals

→ Prayer Calendar

→ Our book recommendations

Learning to read is one of the most pivotal milestones in a child’s life—and yet, it’s often clouded with pressure, comparison, and confusion. On this episode, we explore what it really means to be “reading ready.” by drawing from research-backed methods, personal parenting experiences, and biblical principles. We'll help you understand how to foster early literacy in a way that honors both the child’s pace and God’s design.

With insights on vocabulary development, phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, and even the fourth-grade slump, this conversation equips parents with practical tools and the reassurance to trust the process—while never losing sight of the joy of reading and the power of God's Word.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Why reading matters and how it shapes lifelong success
[00:06:00] – Proven strategies for reading readiness: Language-rich environments and daily life learning
[00:13:00] – Breaking down the components of reading: Phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension
[00:18:00] – Understanding the fourth-grade slump: How vocabulary impacts academic success
[00:25:00] – Tips for reluctant readers: Observing interests and introducing engaging materials

3 Takeaways:

1. Reading is a developmental process that unfolds naturally over time - Parents are encouraged to resist comparison and pressure, instead creating rich, contextual environments where children can grow at their own pace—supported by love, conversation, and daily experiences.
2. Vocabulary is the single greatest predictor of long-term reading comprehension and academic success - From infancy through early elementary years, exposing children to diverse, rich language—through conversation, books, songs, poetry, and storytelling—is essential.
   Reading readiness is not just about decoding words.
3. True literacy includes phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension - These components are best developed through daily living, joyful interaction, and exposure to meaningful content, especially scripture and high-quality literature.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ 20% off Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals

→ Prayer Calendar

Conflict is an unavoidable part of life, but how we handle it—especially within our families—can shape relationships for years to come. In this episode, we explore the biblical principles of conflict resolution and forgiveness. From understanding how often conflicts arise in childhood to using scripture as a foundation for reconciliation, this conversation offers practical steps for guiding children through disputes in a way that fosters peace, understanding, and faith.

Whether you're navigating sibling rivalry, parent-child disagreements, or even conflicts within your marriage, this episode will equip you with the tools to model healthy conflict resolution and cultivate a home built on love and grace.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Why conflict resolution is essential for children and families
[00:03:00] – Biblical foundation: Matthew 5 and Matthew 18 on addressing disputes
[00:09:00] – A personal story: Learning to handle correction and avoiding resentment
[00:11:00] – Modeling forgiveness: Teaching kids to say "Please forgive me"
[00:14:00] – Why strong relationships reduce conflicts: A proactive parenting strategy
[00:16:00] – Teaching children to be "unoffendable" and quick to show mercy
[00:18:00] – Keeping Christ at the center: Encouraging gratitude and daily forgiveness

3 Takeaways:

1. Conflict resolution is not about avoiding disagreements but about learning to navigate them with love, humility, and biblical wisdom. Teaching children how to manage disputes will not only help their sibling and peer relationships but will also set them up for success in marriage, work, and friendships as they grow.
2. Forgiveness is a choice, not just a feeling. The Bible teaches that we should forgive as we have been forgiven, meaning that choosing to forgive—rather than holding onto resentment—leads to healing, unity, and restored relationships. Helping children understand this truth early on will equip them with the ability to extend grace to others.
3. Strong relationships are the foundation for reducing conflict. When children feel secure, loved, and connected, they are less likely to engage in unnecessary disputes. Prioritizing family time, shared activities, and intentional conversations can create an atmosphere of peace and understanding.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast:
themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ 20% off Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals

→ Prayer Calendar

Navigating parental authority can be challenging, especially when young children test boundaries through behaviors like hitting. Many parents struggle with being too permissive or too authoritarian, unsure of how to guide their child in a way that is both firm and loving. In this episode of The Mind of a Child, we dive into the heart of parental authority—what it means, how it is often misunderstood, and how we can align our approach with God’s authority. Through real-life examples, biblical wisdom, and practical strategies, this discussion will help you confidently lead your child while fostering respect, love, and spiritual growth.

3 Takeaways:

1. Parental authority is a God-given (or lent) responsibility, not a tool for control.
2. Effective discipline is rooted in calm, clear expectations.
3. God’s authority serves as a model for parental authority.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: The challenge of parental authority and how it impacts child behavior
[00:02:00] – Examples of permissive and authoritarian parenting styles
[00:05:00] – Breaking down ineffective parenting approaches and their consequences
[00:07:00] – The middle-ground approach: Confidence, authority, and God's guidance
[00:12:00] – How to maintain calm authority: Practical steps for parenting with confidence
[00:16:00] – Biblical foundation: Ephesians 6 and the responsibility of parents
[00:19:00] – God’s authority: How recognizing His rule shapes our parenting
[00:22:00] – Authority as a protective grace: Teaching children obedience and security
[00:24:00] – Closing prayer and reflection

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast:
themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ 20% off Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals

→ Prayer Calendar

Does your toddler hit when frustrated, resisting the car seat, or struggling with big emotions? In this episode we break down this common toddler behavior, offering gentle yet firm discipline strategies, positive reinforcement techniques, and faith-based wisdom to guide your little one toward self-control and respect. From setting firm limits to recognizing foolishness in your child, this episode is packed with practical tools for parents who want to discipline their children with gentleness, love, and authority.

3 Takeaways:

1. Hitting is a natural toddler behavior, but firm, loving guidance helps them learn self-control.
2. Set clear limits and redirect behavior using simple, positive instructions (e.g., “Hands in your lap”).
3. Biblical discipline is about heart change, not just behavior correction—guide children toward wisdom and self-control through faith, patience, and consistency.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome & Listener Question

[05:20] The 4-Step Approach to Addressing Hitting

[12:45] Understanding Toddler Behavior & Root Causes

[18:30] Teaching Through Play & Gentle Correction

[24:10] The Biblical Perspective on Foolishness & Self-Control

[30:00] Encouragement for Parents: Disciplining with Faith

[35:15] Preview of Next Episode

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast:
themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

→ 20% off Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals

→ Prayer Calendar

Mealtime isn’t just about food—it’s about connection, conversation, and creating lifelong habits. In this episode, we explore how to make family meals a positive experience while encouraging healthy eating habits in children. From picky eating to power struggles, we’ll share practical strategies to transform mealtime into a joyful experience for you and your family.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Avoid labels like “picky eater” to prevent reinforcing negative food behaviors.
2. Offer foods multiple times—it can take 10-15 exposures before a child accepts a new food.
3. Make mealtime enjoyable with creative food presentations, fun names, and engaging conversations.
4. Encourage independence by letting kids serve themselves family-style.
5. Focus on connection, not just nutrition—mealtime should be a time of joy and togetherness.

Episode Highlights:

[00:30] – Why mealtime is a blessing and an opportunity for family bonding
[05:45] – Overcoming power struggles at the dinner table
[11:00] – Fun ways to make food more appealing for kids
[16:15] – The do’s and don’ts of raising healthy eaters
[20:40] – The role of patience when introducing new foods
[26:20] – How family-style meals encourage independence and better eating habits

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast:
themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

How Do We Nurture Faith & Discipline in Our Families?

In this special Q&A episode, we answer listener-submitted questions about family discipleship, teaching humility, setting healthy boundaries, and navigating discipline as a united front. Parenting is a journey filled with challenges, and we’re here to provide faith-based guidance to help you raise children who love God, love others, and grow up honoring family values.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps

[00:30] – How to create meaningful family devotionals without resistance
[06:15] – Daily discipleship habits that fit naturally into your routine
[12:00] – Teaching humility through gratitude, service, and responsibility
[18:45] – Protecting kids from cultural influences without over-sheltering them
[25:30] – Navigating discipline: How to present a united front as parents

Key Takeaways

1. Don’t force devotionals. Instead, find a time that works best for your family’s natural rhythm.
2. Encourage gratitude and humility by modeling these traits daily.
3. Be a safe space for your child’s questions—master the art of “not freaking out.”
4. Set clear boundaries on media, social influences, and cultural exposure.
5. Unite as parents in discipline decisions—avoid letting kids play one parent against the other.

→ Book mentioned: Family Discipleship by Matt Chandler & Adam Griffin

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast
themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

Happy 2025! We're leading off the new year with some questions we received at a discipleship conference that are relevant for lots of parents with younger children. This episode is super practical and will cover such things as tantrums, boundaries, routines, and even meal time. Enjoy!

Episode mentioned: Meal Time

The Mind of a Child explores early child development on a social, intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual level to equip parents to parent well. Information is tailored for children 8 and under BUT is relevant for all ages.

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS at themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com

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This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com