Using Music to Disciple Your Children This Christmas: Simple, Biblical Habits for Your Home, Pt. 1
“Music brings a lot of peace… it can set the direction of our heart and the tone of our day.” — Mary Prather
In today’s episode, Lori sits down with longtime friend and music educator Mary Prather to talk about a topic that shapes far more than the atmosphere of Christmas—it shapes the hearts of our children. Mary shares how sacred music can help calm the noise of the season, anchor your home in truth, and create simple rhythms of worship during Advent.
Whether you grew up musical or feel unsure about where to begin, this conversation offers practical, gentle, gospel-centered ways to bring hymns, carols, and meaningful listening habits into your home. You’ll learn how music becomes a quiet but powerful discipleship tool that leads your children toward awe, peace, and a deeper love for Christ.
In This Episode:
• How sacred music forms your child’s spiritual life
• Why Advent rhythms help your family stay focused on Christ
• Easy ways to introduce hymns, carols, and Scripture-based music
• What to do if you “don’t feel musical”
• Mary’s favorite resources, carols, and listening practices
• How playlists and quiet musical moments can reshape the tone of your home
About Mary Prather
Mary Prather is a veteran homeschool mom who has graduated two children from her homeschool journey. Married for 28 years to her husband, Hal, Mary brings her love of family, teaching, and the arts into everything she does. With a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Supervision, she has combined her passions for music and education to serve families through SQUILT Music Appreciation—the curriculum she founded in 2011 to help make fine arts accessible and joyful for every learner. When she’s not teaching or creating, Mary enjoys great books, serving in her church’s special needs ministry, and all things related to music.
Connect with Mary
Homegrown Learners: https://www.homegrownlearners.com/
SQUILT Music Appreciation: https://www.squiltmusic.com/
Homegrown Learners Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homegrown_learners
SQUILT Music Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/squiltmusic