Creating a parenting plan can feel overwhelming especially in the early years when days are unpredictable and your energy is low. But what if a plan wasn’t about rigid control, but about peace, purpose, and flexibility?
In this episode, we explore how simple rhythms, clear communication, and God-centered intention can help you build a plan that actually serves your family. Whether you're a type-A planner or someone who struggles to keep a calendar, this episode gives grace-filled strategies for designing a routine that supports your mental health, aligns with your values, and helps your kids feel secure and loved.
Framework questions for developing a plan
1) What am I trying to accomplish each day but am unable to?
2) What are some things that I must get done each day for my family?
3) What are some things that I must get done each day for me, so that I can be fully present with my family?
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] Why parenting plans can feel heavy
[00:02:00] Three questions to guide your plan
[00:08:30] Why kids crave structure
[00:16:30] Prepping for routine changes: Why kids need advance notice
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.
Potty training is one of the most common parenting milestones and often, one of the most stressful. In this episod, we offer a refreshing grace-filled perspective that rather than chasing quick fixes or rigid timelines, invites parents to slow down, follow their child’s cues, and see this developmental stage as an opportunity to walk with their child.
Blending research, practical steps, and biblical encouragement, this episode reframes potty training as a joy-filled process of growth (as much as it can be), independence, and discipleship.
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] Introduction: Why potty training feels stressful for so many parents
[00:04:30] When to begin: Signs of readiness, developmental timing, and early interest
[00:08:00] First steps: Preparing your environment and changing your expectations
[00:13:30] Nighttime training strategies: Sheets, plastic covers, and grace
[00:19:00] Language tips: Avoiding phrases like “Do it for Mommy”
3 Takeaways
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.
Summer offers a unique opportunity to slow down, connect, and refocus on what really matters. But for many parents, it quickly becomes a season of hustle, pressure, and endless activity. In this episode, we explore how to reclaim the summer months with purpose, peace, and joy. We share practical, faith-centered ideas for engaging your children from backyard discovery and theme days to pointing your kids to God through nature and Scripture.
With encouragement rooted in biblical wisdom and real-life examples, this episode reminds us that summer doesn’t need to be full of structure to be full of meaning.
Scripture mentioned
Matthew 13:3-9
Matthew 13:18-33
Ephesians 5:19-20
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:03:30] 3 Strategies for Laying a Foundation this Summer
[00:15:30] Four-part Garden framework: Prepare, Weed, Tend, Irrigate
3 Takeaways
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
→ Our Children's Bible recommendations
→ Prayer Calendar
Is it possible for siblings to grow up not just as family, but as lifelong friends? In this episode, we dive into one of the most frequently asked parenting questions: how do you nurture strong, lasting friendships between your children? Drawing wisdom from listener questions, childhood memories, and voices across multiple generations, they explore the habits, values, and family rhythms that create deep, enduring sibling bonds.
From conflict resolution strategies to mealtime conversation starters, this episode is full of practical tools for Christian families who want their children to grow up close to each other.
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] Introduction: Listener question on sibling friendship that lasts into adulthood
[00:07:00] Practical framework for resolving sibling conflict: Connect, teach, restore
[00:12:00] The power of parental vision and legacy: “This family is meant to last”
[00:14:00] Dinner table questions: Highs and lows, one-word reflections, and prayer-focused conversations
3 Takeaways
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
Sleep: it's one of the most talked about (and stressed over) topics for new parents. In this episode, we break down the wide world of sleep training. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution, we'll offer you wisdom, humor, and grace to help you make informed, faith-filled choices for your family.
From Ferber to co-sleeping, historical context to biblical encouragement, this episode walks parents through a variety of methods while emphasizing unity, curiosity, and compassion in the journey. If you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or just wondering what works, this conversation should bring both clarity and comfort.
WEBSITES:
safetosleep.gov
healthychildren.org
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:05:00] Overview of popular sleep methods
[00:14:00] Safety considerations: SIDS, firm mattresses, and trusted resources
[00:18:00] Research review: What studies say—and don’t say—about sleep training success
[00:27:00] The power of a perspective shift: Reframing the fatigue with grace
3 Takeaways
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
→ Our Children's Bible recommendations
→ Prayer Calendar
Anxiety is often a companion for many mothers, especially in today’s world of ever-changing information and the overwhelming pressure to "get everything just right." In this episode of The Mind of a Child, we offer faith-filled wisdom for anxious moms including practical strategies, journaling tips, and the reminder that God gently leads those who are raising young children.
With real-life stories, scripture reflections, and a powerful framework for reframing fear, this episode equips moms to shift their focus from worldly worry to Godly peace and trust that He has already equipped them for the journey of motherhood.
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] – What young moms are worrying about today
[00:05:00] – The "blessing" of anxiety
[00:09:00] – Practical journaling methods: SOAP, OIA, topical studies, gratitude, reflection
[00:20:00] – Bible verses to root your heart in peace: Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 139, and more
[00:25:00] – Listener question: How to create a quiet time with a 4-year-old
3 Takeaways
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
→ Our Children's Bible recommendations
→ Prayer Calendar
Finding moments for a quiet time with God can feel almost impossible while raising young children. In this episode, we share practical, grace-filled strategies to help you build daily rhythms of prayer, Bible reading, and worship.
Drawing from personal stories, biblical encouragement, and even the wisdom of historical Christian mothers like Susanna Wesley, these rhythms offer hope and inspiration for parents who long to strengthen their faith and nourish their souls—even in the busiest seasons of life.
Scripture mentioned:
1 John 5:11-12
John 16:24
1 Corinthians 10:13
1 John 1:9
Proverbs 3:5-6
----
Romans 3:23
Romans 6:23
Roman 5:8
Romans 10:9-10
Romans 10:13
Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] – Introduction: Defining quiet time and why it matters for spiritual health
[00:07:00] – List of 10 Rhythms: Set a consistent time and place for daily Bible reading
[00:20:00] – Recommended Children’s Bibles for Young Families
[00:23:00] – Final encouragement: Let Jesus gently lead you and rest in His daily mercies
3 Takeaways
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
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:
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
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:
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
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:
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
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:
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 for Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals - capture your family's favorite memories
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:
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
→ 20% off for Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals - capture your family's favorite memories
→ Download our Prayer Calendar
The Importance of Family Mealtime in Raising Healthy Eaters
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.
Episode Highlights & Timestamps
[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
Key Takeaways:
Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast:
themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com
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
→ 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
Follow us on Instagram at @themindofachildpod for reels, stories, and pictures.
This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com
> Capture your child's precious moments with Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals
Christmas is just around the corner and for many of our listeners it's a season of anticipation and expectation as they await the birth of their newborn. What an exciting time! On this episode we give some practical steps for preparing your home for a new family member, dive into Luke 1:26-55, and finally share how we can prepare our hearts this Christmas Season with Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love just like Mary did. Enjoy!
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
Follow us on Instagram at @themindofachildpod for reels, stories, and pictures.
This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com
> Capture your child's precious moments with Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals
Advent awaits the coming of Christ which is the hope, joy, peace and love not only for parents of young children this season, but for the entire world. On today's episode, we dive into the history of advent, discuss each of the four elements, before finishing with some practical steps for how you can bring hope, joy, peace, and love into your parenting this Christmas. Enjoy!
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
Follow us on Instagram at @themindofachildpod for reels, stories, and pictures.
This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com
Here's a short segment from our most recent episode:
We are joined by artist, author, and mother Tabitha Paige to hear how saying "yes" to God's vision for her life and her family's life has led to blessings beyond her wildest imaginations. You've probably seen her children's books all over social media, and we're so excited to share her story with you all. This interview blessed us so much! And we can't wait for it to do the same for you. Enjoy!
Support Tabitha's work by purchasing one of her best-selling children's books today on Amazon or on her website.
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
Follow us on Instagram at @themindofachildpod for reels, stories, and pictures.
This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com
> Capture your child's precious moments with Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals
We are joined by artist, author, and mother Tabitha Paige to hear how saying "yes" to God's vision for her life and her family's life has led to blessings beyond her wildest imaginations. You've probably seen her children's books all over social media, and we're so excited to share her story with you all. This interview blessed us so much! And we can't wait for it to do the same for you. Enjoy!
Support Tabitha's work by purchasing one of her best-selling children's books today on Amazon or on her website.
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
Follow us on Instagram at @themindofachildpod for reels, stories, and pictures.
This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com
> Capture your child's precious moments with Duncan and Stone's keepsake journals
Play is pivotal to a child's development; however, children nowadays are doing it less and less than ever before. On this episode, we define what is meant by play, how to incorporate more of it into your child's routine, and the developmental consequences of not having enough of it. Enjoy!
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
Follow us on Instagram at @themindofachildpod for reels, stories, and pictures.
This podcast is produced by Rockwell ---> www.rockwell-productions.com