In this episode of the Raising Rices podcast, Marissa Rice discusses the importance of early discipleship in parenting, emphasizing that the toddler years are not merely a waiting period but a foundational stage for developing character and values. She shares personal experiences and practical strategies for training toddlers in obedience, self-control, and respect for authority, which will shape their behavior as teenagers. The conversation highlights the ongoing work of parenting as children grow, transitioning from direct training to guiding wisdom in the teenage years, and the significance of maintaining a strong family culture throughout the process.   Chapters 00:00 The Foundation of Parenting: Early Years Matter 05:26 The Biblical Call to Discipleship 14:23 Practical Training for Toddlers 28:29 Building Character: From Toddlers to Teens 39:22 Transitioning to Teen Years: Shaping Influence   Sound Bites "The toddler years are foundational for future behavior." "Training begins in the smallest moments of daily life." "First-time obedience is crucial for effective parenting."     Takeaways The toddler years are foundational for future behavior. Training begins in the smallest moments of daily life. Obedience in toddlers lays groundwork for spiritual authority. Self-control developed in toddlerhood translates to emotional maturity in teens. Family culture is established early and shapes future relationships. Modeling repentance teaches humility and relational health. First-time obedience is crucial for effective parenting. Eye contact fosters connection and respectful communication. Rhythms and routines help children thrive in both toddler and teen years. Discipleship evolves from direct training to wisdom guiding in teenage years.       Keywords parenting, discipleship, toddler training, teenage development, Christian parenting, family culture, obedience, self-control, authority, emotional maturity