Join me as I chat with Catherine Parks about her children’s Bible study, What to Wear: A Kid’s Bible Study on Looking Like Jesus. In this half we talk about the Holy Spirit, tweens, and kids capability to study God’s Word. Catherine’s bio: CATHERINE PARKS is the author of several books, including two middle grade biography collections, Strong and Empowered. She also serves as an acquisitions editor for Moody Publishers. Catherine and her husband, Erik, live in the Nashville, TN area with their c...
Nov 27, 2023•18 min•Ep. 175
Hey there, mamas! In this week's episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, I dive into the topic of gratitude and whether kids can truly grasp it. As we approach Thanksgiving, it's the perfect time to discuss this important virtue. Join me, Joy Wendling, as I share some realistic expectations for teaching gratitude to our little ones and offer practical tips on how to nurture this quality in them. From modeling gratitude to helping children understand the concept through relationships and concret...
Nov 20, 2023•17 min•Ep. 172
Join me as I chat with Caris Snider, author of Car Line Mom Devotional. Caris’s bio: CARIS SNIDER loves to share the hope of God through speaking, writing, coaching, and leading worship. She is the author of “Anxiety Elephants: 31 Day Devotional” and “Anxiety Elephants: 90 Day Devotional for Tween Boys and Girls.” From her own personal experience, she helps women in their journey of overcoming depression, anxiety, fear, and shame. Caris lives with her husband, Brandon, and two daughters in Cullm...
Nov 13, 2023•25 min•Ep. 173
In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, join host Joy Wendling as she discusses how God responds to our emotions. Joy shares insights from a recent training session with Julie King, author of "How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen." Discover the importance of acknowledging and empathizing with our children's feelings, just as God does with us. Joy reflects on how God models this behavior in the Psalms, providing gentle and kind responses to David's emotions. Join the conversation as Jo...
Nov 06, 2023•13 min•Ep. 172
In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling shares her family's tradition of saying blessings before meals. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude and modeling a thankful heart for our children. Joy provides a downloadable resource of 16 different blessings that can be printed and laminated, making mealtime a playful and meaningful experience for the whole family. She also highlights the biblical example of Jesus blessing his food and invites listeners to incorporate p...
Oct 30, 2023•19 min•Ep. 171
In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling welcomes back guest Valerie Ellis, a mom of two and children's book author. Valerie shares about her online resource, Our Everyday Parables, which helps parents engage with their children about faith and compassion through meaningful conversations and the use of children's books. Valerie also discusses the challenges of parenting preteens and how she learns from her boys, particularly in navigating anxiety. She highlights the imp...
Oct 23, 2023•31 min•Ep. 170
In this bonus episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling shares her excitement about an incredible resource for homeschool parents and public school parents alike. She introduces author Danica Cooley, whose books help parents teach their children about the Bible, history, and important social issues in a playful and faith-filled way. Joy focuses on Cooley's latest series on the abolitionists and the Underground Railroad, discussing how these books allow parents to teach their chi...
Oct 18, 2023•16 min•Ep. 169
In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, join me, Joy Wendling, as I explore the common struggle of self-doubt among moms. Through the story of Jesus calming the storm, I offer encouragement and remind moms that they are chosen by God to be, not a perfect mom, but the perfect mom for their children. I also share a heartfelt prayer for self-doubt and offer practical advice on how to trust in God's plan for motherhood. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and a reminder that you are enough. Y...
Oct 16, 2023•14 min•Ep. 169
In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, join me, Joy Wendling, as I share three simple yet powerful ways to disciple your child before breakfast. We'll explore the importance of modeling delight in our children, bestowing blessings upon them, and framing their day with Christ at the center. Discover how these small acts can have a big impact on your child's spiritual growth and their understanding of God's love for them. So grab a cup of coffee and join me as we dive into the beautiful ...
Oct 09, 2023•11 min•Ep. 168
In this episode, we take a look at Bloom’s taxonomy in action with the example of learning the books of the Bible. You’ve got the Holy Spirit! You can do it, mama! Links: (This may contain some affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links . For more information, please see my disclosure policy .) Free Coaching Call Facebook Group Playfully Faithful Parenting Podcast is a ministry of CreatedtoPlay.com. For more resour...
Oct 02, 2023•12 min•Ep. 167
In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, join me, Joy Wendling, as we explore the fascinating concept of Bloom's Taxonomy and its relation to parenting and faith. We dive into the six levels of thinking and discuss how many children's curriculum in Sunday schools fall short in engaging children on a deeper level. I share insights from a recent interview with Dr. Mimi Larson, an expert in children's spirituality, who advocates for play and higher thinking in nurturing children's faith. Di...
Sep 25, 2023•24 min•Ep. 166
We all need those books that we know we can always turn to for encouragement in our parenting journey. Every Season Sacred: Reflections, Prayers, and Invitations to Nourish Your Soul and Nurture Your Family throughout the Year by Kayla Craig is one of those book. Let me introduce you to it! You’ve got the Holy Spirit! You can do it, mama! Links: (This may contain some affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links . Fo...
Sep 22, 2023•8 min•Ep. 165
Welcome to another episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting! I'm your host, Joy Wendling, and today we have a special episode all about the power of storytelling. We'll explore why stories matter, how they affect our brains, and why it's important to pass down our own stories to the next generation. Did you know that storytelling is not only biblical, but it also helps our children learn and strengthen their faith? Join me as we dive into the science and significance of stories in parenting. So g...
Sep 18, 2023•19 min•Ep. 165
Hey there! In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, join me, Joy Wendling, as we dive into the topic of division of responsibility for faith. I'll be sharing insights and stories about how parents can put down those responsibilities we weren’t meant to carry to walk in the freedom of Jesus’ love. So grab a cup of tea, relax, and get ready to be inspired to raise faith-filled kids in a playfully faithful way. Don't forget to share this episode with a fellow mama who could use some encoura...
Sep 11, 2023•19 min•Ep. 164
Today, Joy dives into the topic of why she gave up her quiet time and how it has transformed her approach to motherhood. In this episode, Joy addresses the pressure that Christian moms often feel to be perfect and do everything perfectly. She emphasizes that even if we could parent perfectly, it doesn't guarantee that our kids will turn out perfectly. Joy encourages moms to not constantly feel the weight of the world on their shoulders, but instead to find joy and fulfillment in their role as mo...
Sep 04, 2023•19 min•Ep. 163
In today's episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling dives into the topic of modeling behavior for our children. Drawing inspiration from an episode of the popular kids' show Bluey, Joy explores the concept of asking our kids to do things that we ourselves may struggle with. She challenges us to consider whether we are practicing what we preach and if we are setting the right example for our little ones. Join us as we reflect on our own actions and strive to be better role model...
Aug 28, 2023•7 min•Ep. 162
Welcome to another episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting with your host, Joy Wendling. In today's episode, titled "Is Misbehavior Sin?" Joy delves into an important question that many parents grapple with. Is it fair to label all of our children's misbehavior as sin? As Joy explores this topic, she reminds us that there is often a mismatch between our expectations as parents and our children's developmental capabilities. Drawing on relatable examples, she encourages us to consider whether we a...
Aug 21, 2023•21 min•Ep. 161
In episode 160 of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling explores the idea of moving from concrete to abstract when teaching children about faith. Drawing inspiration from her readings and personal experiences, Joy shares valuable insights on how to engage children's senses and experiences in order to connect them with God. She reflects on the story of Elijah and the importance of allowing children to have genuine experiences before introducing them to God. Additionally, Joy announces a...
Aug 14, 2023•20 min•Ep. 160
We need Jesus, but we didn’t choose Him. He chose us! He chose us and calls us friends. Let’s dig into John 15:9-17 to read more about what it means to be friends with Jesus. You’ve got the Holy Spirit! You can do it, mama! Links: (This may contain some affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links . For more information, please see my disclosure policy .) Free Coaching Call Facebook Group My new devotional My new jou...
Aug 07, 2023•27 min•Ep. 159
Welcome to another episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting with your host, Joy Wendling! In today's episode titled "Chalk Play and Faith," we dive into the topic of engaging with God directly and teaching children how to communicate with Him in various ways. From prayer labyrinths to using chalk as a medium of expression, we explore how faith can be integrated into playful activities. Join us as we discuss practical ideas and upcoming workshops. Get ready for an inspiring and fun episode filled ...
Jul 31, 2023•22 min•Ep. 158
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling dives into the world of block play and how it intertwines with faith. Joy explores how block play evolves as children grow older and how it can be integrated with faith-based teachings and how understanding child development is also crucial in nurturing children's faith and creating appropriate expectations. Drawing inspiration from Luke 2:52, where Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, favor with God and man, Joy discusses the differen...
Jul 24, 2023•23 min•Ep. 157
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, we explore the concept of loose parts play and its intersection with faith. Joy highlights how loose parts can help children learn to take risks in a safe and creative environment. We delve into the benefits of loose parts beyond just creativity, discussing how they can foster problem-solving skills and enhance concentration. The importance of combining Bible stories with loose parts play is emphasized, as it can spark imagination and storytelling...
Jul 17, 2023•23 min•Ep. 156
The podcast episode is about the topic of risky play and faith, exploring how parents can support their children's development and relationship with God by allowing them to engage in risky play. We talk about what risky play is, why our kids need it, how to do it well, and how it will help you nurture your child’s faith. You’ve got the Holy Spirit! You can do it, mama! Links: (This may contain some affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a ...
Jul 10, 2023•25 min•Ep. 155
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling explores the topic of pretend play and its impact on faith development in children. She discusses how setting up a conducive environment that sparks children's desire for pretend play can have positive effects on their cognitive abilities, language skills, understanding of different perspectives, social skills, problem-solving, and creativity. 🌟 Key takeaways from this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting: 1️⃣ Pretend play is...
Jul 03, 2023•23 min•Ep. 154
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, Joy encourages Christian mamas to try scaffolding to nurture their children’s faith formation. Joy teaches you what scaffolding is, how to scaffold, why you might scaffold, and sometimes when you might scaffold. This is a simple and practical tool to use to help your kids grow closer to Christ. You’ve got the Holy Spirit! You can do it, mama! Links: (This may contain some affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost ...
Jun 26, 2023•19 min•Ep. 153
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, Joy encourages families to make worship and engagement with activities an intergenerational thing that allows both parents and children to hear the Holy Spirit. Joy emphasizes three key points from reflecting on her time at the Intergenerate conference. The episode also talks about how families are like little churches, and it is essential for child development and family formation. Listeners are encouraged to visit the website to sign up for excl...
Jun 19, 2023•15 min•Ep. 152
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling explores how parents can engage in creative play with their children through the lens of the Creation Story. Using a collection of Psalms and other Bible verses about God as Creator, Joy suggests ways to reflect and connect with God. Listeners can discover how to incorporate movement, storytelling, drawing, and other creative outlets into their playtime. Additionally, Joy delves into the importance of intentional and tailored pla...
Jun 12, 2023•27 min•Ep. 151
Could your kids answer WWBD, what would Bluey do? What about WWJD? On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, I share insights on storytelling and character development when teaching kids about Jesus. I discuss the importance of fully developing Jesus as a character and setting the scene properly to help kids imagine the story. I encourage parents to engage in playful storytelling with their kids and offer resources for Discipline as Discipleship with the Connected Families coaching packag...
Jun 05, 2023•22 min•Ep. 150
Hey friends! Today's episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting is all about summer reading lists for moms and kids. I share some great recommendations that will help you experience joy in motherhood and grow closer to God in your parenting journey. Check out the show notes for links to all the books mentioned. And don't forget, clicking on these links supports my ministry and doesn't cost you any extra money. So, grab a book, find a cozy spot, and enjoy some intentional family time this summer! Yo...
May 29, 2023•25 min•Ep. 149
On this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, I dive into the story of the priest, prophet, and judge Samuel from 1 Samuel 1-3. First I start with prayer, then I emphasize the opportunity parents have to show their children what it looks like to walk with God in all situations and model it for them. I discuss the importance of giving space for the Holy Spirit to work in people's lives and trusting in God's capabilities to reach and communicate with kids and teens. You’ve got the Holy Spirit! ...
May 22, 2023•29 min•Ep. 148
