Maddy, Author at RA&A

M is for Mama – My Honest Thoughts, Takeaways, and a Biblical Reflection

Motherhood is one of those journeys that constantly pulls you in two (or more!) directions: one moment you’re overflowing with love and gratitude, and the next you’re crying over spilled milk (literally) and wondering if you’re cut out for this job. When I picked up M is for Mama by Abbie Halberstadt, I didn’t know exactly what to expect – maybe a little encouragement, maybe some practical tips – but what I actually found was something deeper. It felt like part book, part pep talk, part firm nudge to give EVERYTHING to Jesus, and I don’t know about you, but I need all of that. So instead of giving you a straight “book review”-style recap, I thought I’d share my reflections as if we were in a cozy book club together, with a little Bible-study flair. First Impressions When I first started the book, I was struck by how relatable Abbie’s tone was. She’s a mom of ten (yes, TEN), so you know she’s not handing out advice from an ivory tower. And yet, her encouragement isn’t fluffy and surface-level; it’s anchored firmly in Scripture and in a call to something higher. One of her main themes is that hard doesn’t mean bad. How often do we fall into the trap of thinking that because something is difficult, it must be wrong, or we’re doing it poorly? That little line alone reframed a lot for me. Motherhood is hard. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. In fact, God often uses the hardness to grow us. Theme 1: The Lie of “Mediocre Motherhood” Culture loves to tell us that motherhood is about survival: “Just get through until bedtime.” “Mummy needs her wine.” “Coffee is life.” And yes – I sometimes laugh at those kinds of memes too – but after a while, they can seep into your bones and start shaping your perspective and attitudes. Abbie calls this out as the myth of mediocre motherhood – this idea that being a “good enough” mom is all we can hope for. But here’s what struck me: God never calls us to mediocrity in anything, let alone in raising his children. Colossians 3:23 says, “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” That means diaper changes, bedtime battles, homeschooling lessons, even washing the dishes. Book Club Question: Have you ever caught yourself settling for “just surviving” instead of seeing motherhood as a calling? Theme 2: Comparison is a Thief There’s a chapter where Abbie talks about how “no two good mamas look alike,” and I just wanted to shout AMEN. Because as we’ve all probably heard, comparison is the thief of joy. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve scrolled Instagram and thought, She’s got it all together. Her house is clean. Her kids are well-dressed. They’ve got the most gorgeous homestead, and my kids live in a tiny apartment. But here’s the truth: God didn’t call me to be that mom. He called me to be the mom of my children, with my strengths, my weaknesses, and his Spirit working in me. John 21:22 reminds us: “…what is that to you? As for you, follow me.” In other words, stop looking sideways, and start looking up. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Book Club Question: What area of motherhood do you most often compare yourself in (meals, patience, creativity, appearance, etc.)? And what does God say about that area? Theme 3: Self-Care vs. Soul-Care This one hit home, too. The world is very loud about “self-care” or “self-love.” And I do believe God wants us to care for our bodies and minds. But so often, self-care is just surface level: bubble baths, wine, Netflix… What my soul actually needs is soul-care: time with God, truth in my ears, Scripture in my heart. Because no face mask is going to heal the kind of exhaustion that comes from trying to parent in my own strength. Matthew 11:28: “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.‘” True rest isn’t found in escapism. It’s found in Christ. Reflection: Next time I’m feeling burned out, I want to pause and ask: Am I craving self-care… or soul-care? Theme 4: Mom Guilt vs. God’s Grace Oh, mom guilt. If it were a sport, I’d be a gold medalist. I feel guilty when I lose my temper, when I don’t spend enough time on crafts, when dinner is too simple, when the laundry isn’t done… the list goes on. Abbie reminded me that not all guilt is bad. Sometimes the Holy Spirit convicts us, and that’s an invitation to repent and change. But a lot of what we call “mom guilt” is just noise. It’s the enemy whispering that we’re failing when really, we’re faithfully showing up. Romans 8:1 says, “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.” Guilt pushes me down. Grace lifts me up and equips me to try again. Book Club Question: What “mom guilt” do you carry that you need to surrender to Jesus? Theme 5: Gentleness Isn’t Weakness Another section I loved was about gentleness. Our culture often sees gentleness as weakness, but biblically, it’s actually strength under control. For me, gentleness is probably one of the hardest fruits of the Spirit to live out as a mom (especially around 5 p.m. when everyone is melting down). But the reminder was this: God doesn’t ask me to muster up gentleness out of thin air – he grows it in me as I walk with him. Galatians 5:22-23 lists gentleness as one of the fruits of the Spirit. That means it’s not about me gritting my teeth – it’s about abiding in him. Challenge: Pick one recurring situation that usually ends in frustration, and ask God to help you approach it with gentleness. Theme 6: Guarding Our Homes One of my biggest

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Not Alone: God’s Encouragement for the Isolated Mother

Faith-Based Parenting / Maddy

A Devotional for Mums Raising Children Far From Family Scripture: “God places the lonely in families; he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy…” – Psalm 68:6 (NLT) It wasn’t meant to feel this lonely. You imagined the adventure of raising your children in a new land – new sights, new culture, maybe even better opportunities. But what you couldn’t quite picture were the moments where your arms would ache not from holding your child too long, but from holding everything alone. No grandparents to pop by. No siblings to babysit. No childhood friend to understand what you meant without you having to explain. Motherhood, already demanding, can feel heavier when you’re oceans away from your support system. But God, in his tender wisdom, knew this would be part of your story. And he has not left you without hope. 1. God Sees You in the Wilderness Scripture is full of stories of people navigating foreign lands – sometimes as exiles, sometimes as pilgrims, and sometimes simply following the call of God. One such woman was Hagar. Cast out into the desert with her child, she was isolated, overwhelmed, and afraid. And yet, it was in the wilderness that God met her. He revealed himself to her as El Roi, “The God Who Sees Me” (Genesis 16:13). Not just the God who sees the world, or the Church, or the important people – but me. You. The weary, unseen mum changing nappies and reheating coffee. The one who watches birthday parties on FaceTime instead of attending in person. He sees you. And he draws near. 2. You Are Not Alone – God Is Your Present Help “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” – Psalm 46:1 You may feel physically isolated, but you are never spiritually abandoned. One of the deepest comforts of the Gospel is the presence of Emmanuel – God with us. Not just with us in church or in our successes, but with us in the quiet kitchen, in the sleepless night, in the moment we cry because we don’t have someone to pass the baby to. Your pain is not a sign of spiritual weakness – it’s a place where his grace shows up. Jesus knows what it means to be far from home. He left the glory of heaven to live as a stranger in the world for your sake. He understands and he’s with you. 3. He Provides a New Kind of Family “‘Yes,’ Jesus replied, ‘and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property – along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life.” – Mark 10:29-30 Living abroad may mean leaving family behind, but it also opens the door for God to provide community in unexpected ways. The Church is more than a building – it’s the family of God, knit together by his Spirit. You may find sisters in Christ in your neighbourhood, your local church, or even through online communities. They may not share your bloodline, but they share your burdens, and your Saviour. Don’t be afraid to pray boldly for community. God delights in answering those prayers. Ask him to bring godly friendships, safe shoulders, and helping hands. Ask him to show you how to be that for others too. 4. Your Obedience Matters More Than Your Location The world often tells mothers they need to “do it all” and have it all figured out – but God invites us to simply abide. He’s not measuring your motherhood by how many family events you attend or how elaborate your holidays are. He’s looking at your faithfulness – in the small moments, the unseen sacrifices, the ordinary rhythms of love. You most likely didn’t move away from family to be selfish. You did it for reasons of calling, of love, of growth. You made a brave choice – and God honours that. He doesn’t promise it will always be easy, but He promises it will not be in vain. “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” – Galatians 6:9 5. Your Children Are Watching – And Learning Faith Perhaps one of the greatest gifts your children will receive from this season is seeing what it looks like to trust God when it’s hard. They will grow up remembering the warmth of your prayers when you felt cold. The way you opened your home when yours felt so far away. The quiet strength you found not in your own power, but in his. Your life, lived faithfully, will be a testimony they carry with them long after the passports expire and the years roll on. You are sowing seeds in their hearts that distance cannot uproot. A Prayer for the Mum Far From Home Lord, You know the ache of my heart as I raise my children without the nearness of extended family. You know the silent tears, the longing for familiar voices, the weight of carrying it all. But I thank you that you are not distant. You are my refuge and my strength. Help me not to just survive this season, but to see your goodness in it. Send me help in the form of friendship, comfort in your Word, and joy in the little moments with my children. Let my home be filled with your presence, even if it feels far from others. I trust that you are writing a beautiful story, even here. Amen. You are not alone; not for one moment. And every step you take in faith – he sees it, he treasures it, and he walks it with you.

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10 Bible Stories to Start Reading with Your Toddler

Practical Tips / Maddy

Simple, Engaging Stories that Help Little Ones Learn God’s Love Introducing your toddler to the Bible doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it can be one of the sweetest and most encouraging parts of your day. The key is to choose stories that are short, engaging, and packed with simple truths they can understand. In this post, I’m sharing 10 Bible stories that are perfect for toddlers – each one paired with a core biblical truth, a related verse, and a toddler-friendly way to experience the story together. These stories aren’t just about telling your child what happened; they’re about helping them see who God is and how deeply he loves them. Let’s dive into the best Bible stories to start with – and how to make them stick! 1. Creation (Genesis 1) Biblical Truth: God made everything, including me! Memory Verse: “Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good!” – Genesis 1:31 Why it’s great for toddlers: This story is full of visuals – light, animals, oceans, stars – that toddlers can recognise and enjoy. It sets a beautiful foundation that God is the creator of everything good. Try this with your toddler: Go on a “creation walk” outside and point to things God made – trees, animals, the sun. Repeat, “God made the…” When you get home, you can use playdough to form animals or stars while retelling the days of creation. 2. Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6-9) Biblical Truth: God keeps his promises. Memory Verse: I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant…” – Genesis 9:13 Why it’s great for toddlers: Animals, boats, rainbows – it’s tailor-made for little minds. Plus, it’s an early picture of God’s protection and covenant. Try this with your toddler: Use toy animals and a large bowl or toy boat to act out the story. End with colouring a rainbow together as a reminder of God’s promise. 3. David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17) Biblical Truth: God helps me be brave. Memory Verse: “Do not be afraid… for the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6 Why it’s great for toddlers: This story shows that even someone small (like your toddler!) can do big things with God’s help. Try this with your toddler: Build “Goliath” out of blocks and let your child knock him down with a soft toy “stone.” Say, “God helped David! God helps you too!” 4. Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1-3) Biblical Truth: God wants us to obey. Memory Verse: “Be good to your servant, that I may live and obey your word.” – Psalm 119:17 Why it’s great for toddlers: There’s a big fish and a big message: even when we mess up, God is kind and forgiving. Try this with your toddler: Create a pretend fish out of a laundry basket or blanket and let them climb inside as you tell the story. Reinforce the message: “God wants us to listen!” 5. Jesus Calms the Storm (Mark 4:35-41) Biblical Truth: Jesus is always with me – even when I’m scared. Memory Verse: “Even the wind and waves obey him!” – Mark 4:41 Why it’s great for toddlers: It teaches toddlers that Jesus is strong and caring, even when we feel afraid. Try this with your toddler: Use water play with boats and waves in the bath or a water table. Show how the “storm” gets calm when Jesus says “peace.” 6. Jesus Feeds the 5,000 (John 6:1-14) Biblical Truth: Jesus gives us what we need. Memory Verse: “Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them…” – John 6:11 Why it’s great for toddlers: It involves food, sharing, and kindness – all things your toddler can relate to. Try this with your toddler: Let your child “pack a lunch” with toy food or a real snack. Talk about how Jesus can use even small things to bless others. 7. The Good Shepherd (John 10, Psalm 23) Biblical Truth: Jesus takes care of me. Memory Verse: “The Lord is my shepherd…” – Psalm 23:1 Why it’s great for toddlers: The imagery of a shepherd caring for sheep is comforting and easy for little ones to understand. Try this with your toddler: Use stuffed animals to play “shepherd and sheep.” Practice saying, Jesus takes care of me!” while gently gathering the sheep. 8. Jesus Loves the Children (Mark 10:13-16) Biblical Truth: Jesus loves ME! Memory Verse: “Let the children come to me.” – Mark 10:14 Why it’s great for toddlers: There’s no clearer affirmation than this: Jesus welcomes and cherishes children. Try this with your toddler: Give your toddler a big hug and say, “Jesus loves you SO much!” Act out the scene with dolls or toys, letting “Jesus” welcome the children. 9. The Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7) Biblical Truth: God comes looking for me when I’m lost. Memory Verse: “Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.” – Luke 15:6 Why it’s great for toddlers: Toddlers sometimes wander – but this story helps them understand they’re never too far from God’s love. Try this with your toddler: Hide a small stuffed sheep and let your toddler help you find it. Celebrate together with, “Yay! We found the lost sheep – just like God finds us!” 10. Palm Sunday / Jesus Enters Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-11) Biblical Truth: Jesus is our King! Memory Verse: “Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” – Matthew 21:9 Why it’s great for toddlers: It’s a story full of movement, sound, and excitement – perfect for re-enactment. Try this with your toddler: Wave scarves or green paper “branches” and say, “Hosanna!” March around like the crowd did and celebrate that Jesus is our King. Final Tips for Reading Bible Stories with Your Toddler Closing Encouragement Your toddler might not understand every word or remember every detail – but that’s okay. What they

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Is My Toddler Too Young for the Bible? 7 Simple Ways to Start Teaching God’s Word Today

Faith-Based Parenting, Practical Tips / Maddy

Helping Little Hearts Discover God’s Big Love from the Very Beginning “Is my toddler too young for the Bible?” It’s a question many Christian parents ask – and it comes from a place of love. We want to honour the sacredness of Scripture while respecting our child’s age and development. The reassuring truth? Your toddler is not too young. In fact, these early years are some of the best for planting seeds of lifelong faith. Children learn through repetition, rhythm, and relationship – all things the Bible offers in abundance. Even simple truths like “God made me” and “Jesus loves me” can begin shaping your toddler’s heart, worldview, and spiritual identity. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or new to faith-based parenting, this guide will equip you to start introducing God’s Word in a joyful, age-appropriate way. In this post, you’ll discover: Let’s explore how you can build a beautiful foundation of faith – starting today. Why Toddlers Are Ready for the Bible 1. Toddlers Learn Through Repetition and Rhythm Children, especially in the youngest years, learn effectively through repeated exposure, rhythm, songs, and sensory experiences. The Bible is rich in repetition, poetic rhythm, and memorable stories – making it naturally compatible with a toddler’s learning style. Hearing the same Bible song or story every night before bed might feel monotonous to you, but for a toddler it’s gold. Each repetition solidifies understanding and creates emotional connection. That’s why stories like Noah’s Ark of David and Goliath stick with little ones – they contain strong, simple elements that lend themselves to repetition and dramatic retelling. When you pair storytime with routine, song, or movement, you’re doing more than entertaining – you’re building memory and trust in the content of those stories. Try This: Sing “Jesus Loves Me” or repeat a phrase like, “God made you, and God love you,” every night at bedtime, while rocking your toddler or tucking them in (or however you do bedtime). See how many nights it takes before they catch on and start repeating it back to you; I bet it will surprise you how quickly it happens! These words, repeated over time, become part of your child’s spiritual vocabulary. Digging Deeper: You can even try adding little variations to your bedtime routine based on the season or time of year. For example, in spring, you can read about creation and talk about flowers blooming. This helps your child see how the Bible connects to the real world, reinforcing repetition and rhythm with real-life context. 2. They Are Forming Core Beliefs Now I’ve read that research shows that the moral and emotional framework of a person is largely formed in early childhood. What your toddler hears, sees, and experiences now will shape how they view God, themselves, and others. If your toddler hears daily that they are loved by God, sees you pray in times of joy and trouble, and experiences the kindness of Christian community, they’ll associate faith with comfort, security, and love. This kind of heart-deep formation is incredibly valuable. It’s not necessarily about theological depth – it’s about consistency and connection. Parent Reflection: Take time to think about the messages your child receives through your actions and words. Are you modelling grace and forgiveness? Even apologising after you lose patience can demonstrate Christ-like humility. Further Encouragement: Think about incorporating a “blessing moment” into your day. This could be as simple as placing your hand on your toddler’s head and saying, “God bless you today. Jesus loves you so much.” Little rituals like these build a framework of emotional and spiritual safety that toddlers crave. 3. Toddlers Can Grasp Simple, Foundational Truths We’re not asking toddlers to conjugate Greek verbs or memorize the Pentateuch. What they can do is understand simple truths like: These small but powerful truths are stepping stones to deeper understanding later on. And they’re easier to remember when tied to songs, stories, or actions. That’s why it’s important to speak these truths regularly. Even if they can’t say them back yet, they’re absorbing more than we think. In Practice: Try turning truth into a simple songs with simple actions – It can be as straight-forward as, “God made me, 1-2-3!” These fun, physical connections help toddlers learn with their bodies and not just their minds. Expanded Practice: Integrate truth statements into daily moments. When your toddler sees a bird, say, “God made the birds!” When they get a hug, say, “God gave you to us so we could love you!” These tiny moments add up and build a big picture of who God is. 7 Simple Ways to Start Teaching God’s Word to Your Toddler 1. Create a Consistent Bible Time Why It Matters: Toddlers thrive on routine. Making Bible time a daily part of your routine helps them understand its importance. How to Do It: Example Routine: Pro Tip: Use a consistent location – like a special corner with a blanket and a basket of Bible books – to make it feel set apart and predictable. Extra Tips for Success: Over time, your toddler will come to anticipate and even ask for this time. It becomes a familiar rhythm that gives their day a spiritual anchor. Bonus Activity: Let your toddler decorate a “Bible Time” basket with stickers and keep their special Bible books or toys inside. Ownership can help to make participation more exciting. Family Faith Calendar: If you’ve mastered all this and you’re looking for ways to keep things fresh without upsetting the routines you’ve created, consider creating a simple faith calendar with daily or weekly focus areas. These might include “Memory Verse Monday” or “Worship Song Wednesday.” Themes provide variety while reinforcing routine. 2. Choose the Best Toddler Bibles and Resources Why It Matters: Not all Bibles are created equal – especially for toddlers. Simplified language and visual storytelling make all the difference at this stage… but you want to make sure it’s still biblically sound. Some Top Picks: What to Look For: How to

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15 Easy Bible Activities for Toddlers That Teach God’s Love

Bible Activities / Maddy

Fun, faith-building ideas that help little hearts grow in God’s truth. As Christian parents, we long to help our toddlers understand one of the most profound truths in the Bible: God loves them. But how do you communicate something so big to someone so small? The answer: through simple, engaging Bible-based activities that speak to their level – play! In this post, you’ll find 15 easy Bible activities for toddlers that are not only fun but rooted in Scripture, each one tied to a key verse and a simple biblical truth. These aren’t just crafts or object lessons – they’re hands-on experiences designed to build connection, repetition, and joy around God’s love. Whether you’re a homeschooling mom, Sunday school teacher, or just want to build faith into your daily routine, you’ll find ideas here that toddlers will truly remember. 1. “God Made Me” – Mirror Decorating Verse: Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous – how well I know it. -Psalm 139:14 Simple Truth: God made me and loves me. Activity: Give your toddler a handheld mirror and let them decorate the border using stickers, foam shapes, or washi tape. Say the verse together and talk about how God made their eyes, nose, smile, and any other parts of them they see in the mirror! 2. “Hearts of Love” – Stamping Play Verse: We love each other because he loved us first. -1 John 4:19 Simple Truth: God loves me, so I can love others. Activity: Cut a sponge into a heart shape and let your toddler stamp hearts onto paper using washable paint (or onto a canvas bag or t-shirt using fabric paint). As you stamp, say the verse out loud and talk about who God loves and who they can love. 3. “Heart Hop” – Gross Motor Game Verse: So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, should love each other. -John 13:34 Simple Truth: God loves me, so I can love others. Activity: Cut out large paper hearts and tape them to the floor in a path. Write names or include pictures on each one of people your toddler love (family, friends, etc.) Let them hop from heart to heart, saying “God loves _!” each time they land. You could also encourage them to say a quick prayer for each person: “Thank you, God, for my baby sister!” This is a fun, movement-based way to internalize love in action! 4. “God’s Love is Everywhere” – Nature Walk & Collect Verse: He loves whatever is just and good; the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth. -Psalm 33:5 Simple Truth: We can see signs of God’s love in nature. Activity: Take a short walk and help your toddler collect things that show God’s love: a flower, a leaf, a rock. Afterward, you can make a simple “God Loves Me” collage with your collected items and say, “This is a gift from God, who loves us!” 5. “Love Like Jesus” – Foot Washing Verse: I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. -John 13:15 Simple Truth: Jesus showed love by serving others. I can too. Activity: Take turns with your toddler, washing each others’ feet (or dolls’ feet) with warm water and a soft cloth. Talk about how Jesus washed his friends’ feet to show them love. Toddlers love water play, and it makes a strong sensory impression. 6. “Love Builds Up” – Building Blocks Challenge Verse: But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. -1 Corinthians 8:1 Simple Truth: God’s love helps us build others up. Activity: Build tall towers with blocks and name kind words or actions, like “sharing” or “smiling”. Each one helps build a tall tower! Knock it down together, rebuild, and say: “God’s love helps us keep going, even when things fall!” 7. “God’s Love is Sweet” – Fruit Tasting Verse: Taste and see that the Lord is good. -Psalm 34:8 Simple Truth: God’s love is sweet and good. Activity: Try different fruits (berries, bananas, grapes, etc.) and talk about how they taste, focusing on their sweetness. Then talk about Psalm 34:8, and explain that God’s love is even sweeter than the yummiest treat. 8. “Love Notes” – Sticker/Art Delivery Verse: So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. -1 Thessalonians 5:11 Simple Truth: I can show God’s love with kind words and actions. Activity: Let your toddler stick heart stickers or draw little pictures on index cards with you write a simple note like, “Jesus loves you” or “you’re special to us.” Deliver the notes to friends or family members as mini acts of kindness. 9. “Nothing Can Separate” – Juice Object Lesson Verse: Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is reavealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 8:39 Simple Truth: Nothing can separate me from God’s love. Activity: Let your child mix a small amount of squash or juice with water in a cup. Ask them if they can take the squash back out. Explain how this is just like God’s love and us; we can’t take the juice out of the water and nothing can separate us from God’s love. 10. “Blessing Time” – Helping Our Family Verse: Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. -1 Peter 5:7 Simple Truth: I should care for others like Jesus cares for me. Activity: Talk about different ways we can care for people (tidying up, cleaning, making food, giving gifts, etc.) Choose some age-appropriate chores for your toddler to help with, put on some fun worship music, and tackle the list together. This is a great one to turn into a habit, as it teaches that we can be a blessing to our family by helping out wherever we can

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Creating a Christ-Centred Home (Even in the Toddler Chaos!)

Faith-Based Parenting / Maddy

Embracing the Beautiful Mess But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord. -Joshua 24:15 Parenting toddlers is one of the most rewarding – and exhausting – seasons in life. The days are filled with spilled snacks, endless “why” questions, diaper changes or potty training, and emotional meltdowns. And yet, these little ones are also bubbling over with wonder, innocence, and a surprising capacity for understanding spiritual truths. Amid the Lego-covered floors and sippy cups, we may wonder how we could possibly foster a Christ-centred home. Isn’t that something we should wait to establish when things are calmer – when we have more time, or when the kids are older and better able to sit still and listen? But here’s the truth: there is no better time than now. The toddler years are foundational. Their hearts and minds are wide open, soaking in everything around them – including (and especially) the culture of their home. If we want our children to grow up loving Jesus, the seeds must be planted early, watered daily, and nutured with grace. This isn’t about achieving perfection or rigid routines. Instead, it’s about inviting Christ into your ordinary, chaotic, beautiful daily life. It’s about filling your home with truth, love, and intentional practices that turn the everyday into holy ground. Let’s explore how to create a Christ-centred home in a way that meets toddlers where they are at: playful, curious, and bursting with energy. 1. Understanding What a Christ-Centred Home Really Is And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. -Deuteronomy 6:5 First, let’s clear up a common misconception: a Christ-centred home is not one where everyone is always well-behaved, where Scripture is recited in harmony, or where worship music constantly plays softly in the background (although that’s lovely, too!). A Christ-centred home is one where: In practical terms, this means inviting God into everything – from the quiet moments to the chaos. When your toddler dumps their lunch on the floor for the third time, you can pause to breathe and ask Jesus for patience. When you’re tucking them in at night, you can whisper a prayer over them. When a conflict arises between siblings, you can model repentance and forgiveness. This approach shifts the focus from performance to presence. Christ doesn’t need our homes to be perfect – he just wants to be invited in. When he is the centre, our children will grow up knowing that faith is not just for Sunday mornings or special occasions, but for every part of life. It’s also important to remember that toddlers are concrete thinkers. They understand love through what they can see, hear, and feel. A Christ-centred home becomes real to them through consistent routines, gentle correction, joyful celebration, and loving discipline. 2. Building Spiritual Habits into Daily Life And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. -Deuteronomy 6:6-7 You don’t need a theology degree or hours of free time to disciple your toddler. Spiritual formation at this age is most effective when it’s woven into your normal routines. Here are some ideas for how you can do that: Morning Time: Begin the with a short prayer. As you dress your child, thank God aloud for their hands, feet, smile, and the new day. Try reciting a simple verse like, “This is the day the Lord has made.” (Psalm 118:24). Meal Time: Invite your toddler to fold hands and say a blessing. Even if it’s just “Thank you, God, for our food,” it sets a habit of gratitude. You can also sing a short song like “God is great, God is good…” or the “Doxology”. Play Time: Infuse conversations with spiritual language. If your child is stacking blocks, you can say, “Wow! God gave you strong hands to build!” Or if a tower falls and your child is frustrated, talk about how God helps us when things don’t go our way. Story Time: Read Bible stories alongside other books. Choose toddler-friendly versions with bright pictures and short texts. Reinforce truths by asking simple questions like, “Who made the animals? God did!” Discipline Moments: When correction is needed, bring in God’s truth. Say, “Jesus wants us to be kind. Let’s ask him to help us use gentle hands.” Bedtime: Wind down with a verse, a prayer, and a story. Try asking, “What are you thankful for today?” or “Where did you see God’s love today?” These rituals don’t have to be long or perfect. What matters is consistency and the sense that Jesus is part of every moment – whether big or small. 3. Teaching Truths Through Play Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. -Proverbs 22:6 Toddlers are wired to learn through play. This is how they process emotions, build relationships, and understand the world. So why not use it as a tool for teaching eternal truths? Here are a few ways to use play as discipleship (and be sure to check out other blog posts on the topic, too): Pretend Play: Blocks and Building Toys: Crafts and Colouring: Music and Movement: Nature Play: Each of these moments becomes an opportunity to instill simple but powerful truths: God is good. God made us. Jesus loves us. We can talk to him anytime. 4. Modelling Christ to Your Child Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. -Ephesians 5:1 Children watch everything. More than any lesson you teach, what will shape your child most deeply is the life you live in front of them. Your tone of voice, your reactions, your habits, your faith – it all speaks louder than words. This can

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How to Use Play to Teach Biblical Truths to Toddlers

Practical Tips / Maddy

The Power of Play in a Toddler’s Heart Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. -Proverbs 22:6 (NLT) As Christian parents, one of our deepest desires is to pass on our faith to our children. We long to see them grow into people who know and love the Lord, who carry his Word in their hearts, and who live according to his truth. But how do we begin this sacred work when our children are so little, still learning to speak in full sentences, to share toys, and to regulate their emotions? The answer may be simpler – and more joyful – than we think: we start with play. Play is the language of toddlers. It’s how they explore, experiment, and understand the world around them. When we step into their world of play, we not only bond with them, but we also open a door to their hearts. And when we fill that space with the truths of God’s Word, we begin planting seeds of faith that can grow throughout their lives. Let’s explore how to intentionally use play to teach toddlers biblical truths – rooted in scripture, guided by love, and filled with fun. Why Play Matters in Spiritual Formation Play is not a distraction from learning – it is learning. According to early childhood development experts, play enhances cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual development. And for toddlers, the most effective teaching happens not in structured lessons, but in the midst of everyday moments – when their hands are busy and their hearts are open. Jesus himself welcomed children with open arms. In Mark 10:14, he said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.” He didn’t demand theological understanding or perfect behaviour – he simply invited them to come. If Jesus made intentional space for children in his ministry, so should we in our parenting. By using play to share the gospel and God’s love, we follow Christ’s example of meeting children where they are. Foundational Biblical Truths Toddlers Can Grasp Before diving into specific play ideas, let’s consider the core biblical truths toddlers are capable of understanding. While their ability to grasp abstract theology is limited, their capacity for trust, joy, and spiritual curiosity is profound. Here are five foundational truths even young toddlers can begin to learn: 1. God made me. So God created human beings in his own image… male and female he created them.” -Genesis 1:27 (NLT) Through play, we can affirm their identity and worth as God’s creation. 2. God loves me. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. -Romans 5:8 (NLT) Toddlers thrive when they feel safe and loved – and we can teach them about God’s unconditional love. 3. Jesus is my friend. Now you are my friends… -John 15:15 (NLT) Jesus as a loving friend is an accessible and comforting idea for toddlers. 4. The Bible is God’s Word All Scripture is inspired by God… –2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) Even toddlers can learn to revere the Bible as a special book that God gave them to learn about him. 5. I can talk to God. Never stop praying. -1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NLT) Simple prayers during play help normalize communication with God. These truths serve as the foundation for the kinds of play we’ll explore next. Practical Ways to Use Play to Teach Biblical Truths 1. Pretend Play: Acting Out Bible Stories Toddlers love role play – and the Bible is full of dramatic, visual stories perfect for acting out. Keep it simple. Toddlers don’t need all the details right away – just the key elements and someone they trust reminding them, “Jesus is powerful,” or “God takes care of us.” 2. Sensory Play: Experiencing God’s Creation Sensory play helps toddlers explore God’s world and fosters wonder. Try: As they engage their senses, you can gently remind them, “God made this,” or, “Thank you, God, for this flower!” 3. Art and Crafts: Creating to Reflect the Creator Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! -Genesis 1:31 (NLT) When toddlers create art, they mirror God’s creativity. Use this time to reinforce that we are made in his image. It’s not about neat results – it’s about the process of connecting creativity with spiritual identity. 4. Music and Movement: Joyful Praise Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! -Psalm 100:1 (NLT) Toddlers love to sing and move. Use music to plant Scripture in their hearts: This not only teaches truth and helps to build a habit of worship, but also helps them associate joy and fun with God. 5. Routine Building: Making Faith a Daily Habit Biblical teaching doesn’t need to be a separate activity. Incorporate spiritual truths into daily routines: Every ordinary moment can become holy when we invite God into it. Letting Go of Perfection and Embracing Presence As parents, we can sometimes feel pressure to do everything “right” – to say the perfect words, to make every moment educational, to see instant spiritual fruit. But toddlers are not looking for perfection. They’re looking for presence. The most powerful thing you can do is to be intentionally available – emotionally, physically, and spiritually. When your child senses that you delight in them, it becomes easier for them to believe that God delights in them too. Remember the words of Deuteronomy 6:5-7: And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you todaay. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. This

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How to Pray for Your Child: 7 Daily Scriptures for Parents

Faith-Based Parenting / Maddy

As Christian parents, we all want what’s best for our children – we strive to facilitate protection, wisdom, joy, and a deep, lasting relationship with Jesus. But ultimately, these things aren’t in our control, no matter how well we try, no matter how intensely we plan, and no matter how much we worry when things seem to go wrong. Parenting can be overwhelming, and as much as we know we should pray, sometimes, we just don’t know what to say or how to start. That’s where the power of God’s Word comes in. Praying Scripture over your child not only guides your words – it anchors your heart in truth, and provides peace and perspective in the process. Whether your child is learning to walk, heading off to preschool, or still snuggling in your arms, these seven daily scriptures will help you cover them in prayer with purpose and confidence. Why Pray Scripture Over Your Child? Praying Scripture is powerful because it reminds us that God’s promises are already true as we seek to raise our children to love Christ. We don’t have to worry or wonder about what will happen because ultimately, it’s in God’s hands and we know he is so good. When we use his Word in prayer: It doesn’t have to be complicated – just intentional. One verse a day is enough to build a habit and create a rhythm of prayer in your parenting journey. 7 Daily Scriptures to Pray Over Your Child Use these verses as daily themes and starting points to guide your prayers. Speak them over your child, whisper them during bedtime, or pray them silently while folding laundry. The goal is simple: invite God into your child’s life – daily. Monday – For Protection Psalm 91:11 – “For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.” Prayer: Lord, thank you for watching over my child. Please send your angels to guard them – at home, at play, and everywhere they go. Keep their body, mind, and spirit safe in your care. Amen. Tuesday – For Wisdom James 1:5 – “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” Prayer: Father God, I pray my child will grow in wisdom, even now. Help them to know right from wrong and to seek you when they need guidance. Fill their heart with godly understanding. Amen. Wednesday – For Kindness and Love Ephesians 4:32 – “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Prayer: Jesus, teach my child to be kind. Soften their heart toward others. Let them reflect your love in the way they speak, share, and treat their friends and family. Amen. Thursday – For Faith Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” Prayer: Lord, grow a strong, lasting faith in my child. Help them to believe in you deeply, know your love for them, and to trust that you are always near. Amen. Friday – For Obedience and Respect Ephesians 6:1 – “Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.” Prayer: God, shape my child’s heart to be one that listens and obeys with love. Give me patience and grace to lead them well, and help us both to honour you in our relationship. Amen. Saturday – For Joy and Peace Romans 15:13 – “I pray that God, the source of hope will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Prayer: Father, let my child be filled with the true joy and peace that is found only in you. Calm their worries and fears, and teach them to find joy and fulfilment not in things, but in you. Amen. Sunday – For Their Future Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Prayer: Thank you, God, that you already hold my child’s future. I trust you with their life, their calling, and every step they will take. Lead them into the plans you have prepared for them. Amen. How to Make Prayer a Daily Habit Building a prayer habit for your child doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are some simple ways to weave these verses into your week: Trusting God with Your Child, One Prayer at a Time Parenting is a sacred calling, and prayer is one of our most powerful tools. You don’t have to have all the answers. (Because our Father God does!) You don’t have to be the perfect parent. (Because our Father God is!) Just show up, with your Bible and your heart open, and invite God to work in you and your child’s life – one verse, one day, one prayer at a time. Want a printable version of these 7 daily scriptures to keep in your Bible or hang on your fridge? Grab your free download here!

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How to Start Memorizing Simple Bible Verses with Your Toddler

Practical Tips / Maddy

As Christian parents, one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is a strong foundation in God’s Word. Even at a very young age, toddlers are capable of understanding simple truths from Scripture – and what better way to plant seeds of faith than through Bible verse memorization? Why Start Early? Toddlers are like little sponges. Their brains are developing rapidly, and they absorb language, rhythm, and repetition with ease. Beginning memory verses early not only instills God’s truth in their hearts but also makes it a natural part of their daily life. 5 Simplified Bible Verses to Start With Here are five short, powerful shortened verses perfect for toddlers just beginning to memorize Scripture: Fun and Easy Ways to Practice Memory Verses Learning Bible verses doesn’t have to be boring! Here are some fun and engaging ways to help your toddler memorize Scripture: 1. Sing It Out Toddlers love songs! Turn verses into short, catchy tunes or set them to familiar melodies like “Twinkle Twinkle” or “The Wheels on the Bus.” If that feels too daunting, there are loads of musical artists who have put out albums with biblical lyrics to help children store God’s Word in their hearts. (Slugs and Bugs and The Corner Room are two of our favourites!) 2. Use Hand Motions Simple gestures can help toddlers remember the meaning of each word. For example, point to the sky for “God”, hug yourself for “love”, or clap hands for “thanks”. 3. Make Verse Cards Create colourful flashcards with a word or two from each verse. Add pictures to help your child make connections and use them for daily review. 4. Repeat During Routines Incorporate verses during diaper changes, meals, or car rides. Repetition is key, and toddlers thrive on routine! 5. Act It Out Turn verses into mini skits or use stuffed animals to act out the meaning of each verse. This adds a playful and imaginative element to learning. Keep It Simple and Celebrate Progress Be patient and make it fun! Your toddler may not get every word perfectly – and that’s okay. Celebrate every attempt and praise their efforts. Over time, these verses will take root in their little hearts, shaping their view of God and his love. Bonus Tip: Print out a weekly verse and hang it somewhere your child can see it – on the fridge, near their bed, or in their play space. Visibility reinforces learning! Save It, Share it, and Follow for More! If you loved these tips, don’t forget to save this post for later or share it with a friend who wants to bring the Bible to life for their little ones. Be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok (@raisingarrowsandamens) for quick, helpful tips to weave Christ into your toddler’s everyday life!

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8 Easy Toddler Activities About Creation

Bible Activities / Maddy

Fun, Faith-Based Play Ideas to Teach the 7 Days of Creation Are you looking for creative ways to introduce your toddler to the story of God’s creation? Here are 8 simple and engaging toddler activities about creation, designed with little hands and short attention spans in mind! And as a bonus, they require very little or no prep! Whether you’re a Christian parent, homeschooler, or Sunday school teacher, these faith-based ideas make learning about the creation Bible story fun, playful, and memorable. 1. Creation Story Timeline Puzzle Help your toddler understand the 7 days of creation with a simple card ordering game. Print or draw images for each day (light/dark, sky/water, land/plants, sun/moon/stars, birds/fish, animals/people, rest). (We’ve made a printable set available as a free download here.) Mix them up and encourage your toddler to line them up in the correct order. Simple truth: God made everything and it was good. Genesis 1:1 – In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Tip: Laminate your cards to use them again and again! 2. Light vs. Dark Sorting Game God said, “Let there be light!” Gather toys or household objects that are dark/black and light/white. Let your child sort them into two piles. You can even turn off the lights and do it all by flashlight for extra fun! Simple truth: God made day and night. Genesis 1:3 – Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 3. Bubble Bath Playtime Provide a visual of the skies (clouds) being created above the waters of the earth. Grab a nice, foamy bubble bath and pour some into a warm running bath for a relaxing playtime. My son loves to have a “pampering” bath with worship music and maybe some glow sticks, too! Throw in a few toys and it’s sure to be a fun time for everyone. Simple truth: God made the sky. Genesis 1:6 – Then God said, “Let there be a space between the waters, to separate the waters of the heavens from the water of the earth.” 4. Playdough Land & Plants Use green and brown playdough (or any colour!) to make grass, trees, and land! As your child models and creates, remind them that God made the land and all the plants. Simple truth: God made land and plants. Genesis 1:11 – Then God said, “Let the land sprout with vegetation…” Extend it: Collect a leaf or a flower (ones already on the ground!) on a nature walk to add to your playdough scene. 5. Sun, Moon & Stars Craft Make a sun from yellow construction paper (or a small-ish paper plate), a moon from foil, and stars from glitter or shiny stickers. Stick them onto black paper to make a day-and-night sky scene. Simple truth: God made the sun for the day and the moon and stars for the night. Genesis 1:14 – Then God said, “Let lights appear in the sky to separate the day from the night…” 6. Ocean Bin Play Fill a sensory bin or tub with water and any water-related toys you might have lying around (think: fish, boats, sea creatures, rubber duckies, etc.) Let your toddler splash around and explore while you tell them how God made the fish and the birds. You could add a few drops of a natural blue food colouring to the water, too! Simple truth: God fills the sky and sea with amazing creatures. Genesis 1:20 – Then God said, “Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind.” Optional add-on: Blow bubbles to represent birds in flight! 7. Animal Parade Line up your toddler’s toy animals and march them across the room. As you go, say, “God made lions… God made elephants… and God made YOU!” Simple truth: God made animals and people. Genesis 1:27 – So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Fun twist: Your toddler could pretend to be each animal as you name them. 8. Rest Day Reading Nook Create a cozy space with pillows and books, or take the opportunity to build a full-blown blanket fort. Snuggle up and read the creation story from your favourite toddler Bible or a related children’s picture book. Explain that after all His creating, God rested – and we should too! Simple truth: Rest is a gift from God. Genesis 2:3 – And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation. Try this: Take this opportunity to play some calming worship music, drink a warm drink, or say a prayer together. Why These Activities Work Toddlers learn through movement, repetition, and sensory play. These simple Bible-based ideas help anchor faith concepts in everyday play and routine. They’re easy to adapt and require little more than household items or basic craft supplies. Pin It, Save It, Share it! If you loved these ideas for toddler activities about creation, don’t forget to save this post for later or share it with a friend who wants to bring the Bible to life for their little ones. Want More? Be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok (@raisingarrowsandamens) for quick, one-minute video versions of these toddler activities about creation – and more Bible play inspiration for toddlers!

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