Dear Mattsons with Jeff and Terra

Saying no is hard and mom guilt is real, but we were not made to do everything. Join us as we talk through setting up a support system, language to use when you are put on the spot, and choosing what to commit to.   Check out these similar resources:  Is doing it all what God asked you to do?: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/is-doing-it-all-what-god-asked-you-to-do/ Learning to be in the no: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/learning-to-be-in-the-no/ Pleasing God, not people: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/pleasing-god-not-people/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Watching your child be mistreated is heartbreaking at any age, and we are here to walk this journey with you. Join us as we discuss how to ask healthy questions, listen, and try to understand why your adult child is choosing an unhealthy relationship.   Check out these similar resources:  How do I tell my adult daughter I don't like her boyfriend: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyAhGBAmrDQ&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=25 Learning to trust God with your adult children: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/learning-to-trust-god-with-your-adult-children/ Dr. Michelle Watson: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/blog Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

What do you do if your teen is eating unhealthy, not exercising and gaining a lot of weight? Join us as we talk through how to engage your teen, find a fun way to incorporate exercise into the day, and encourage healthing eating without negatively impacting your child's self esteem.    Check out these similar resources:  How to help our kids fight body shame: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZQSWagXi_s&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=35&t=13s Three ways to model a healthy body image for your daughter: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/three-ways-to-model-a-healthy-body-image-for-your-daughter/ Teaching our kids how to view food: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/teaching-our-kids-how-to-view-food/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Teaching manners is always a challenge, but when one parent doesn't model the behaviors you are trying to encourage in your child, it is extra challenging. Join us as we talk through tips on teaching your son to be a gentleman and discussions to have with your spouse to parent as a team.   Check out these similar resources:  Three character qualities that set your kids up for success: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/3-character-qualities-that-set-your-kids-up-for-success/ What your son needs most from you now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSq6U2c_AFM&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=20&t=24s Manners Matter: https://www.christianparenting.org/podcasts-post/manners-matter/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

What do you do when your child has a hard time getting up in the morning and their attitude affects the whole family? Join us as we talk through strategies to set up a calm morning routine, conversations to have the night before, and how to rewire the brain to look forward to getting up in the morning.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ How do I help my kids with big emotions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LFjLYA0c-8&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=3&t=9s Raising grateful kids: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/raising-grateful-kids-three-ways-to-practice-gratitude/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Shy and introverted children are wired to need more information and tend to be more cautious in new situations. We will encourage you to practice and talk through social situations at home, learn what introverts need and speak life into your child and their wiring.   Check out these similar resources:  How do I get my introverted child to communicate with me?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h95dVDrs2GQ&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=48 Helping our kids overcome fear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UfMN78Huyc&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=40 How to guide your family through life's hard things: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-guide-your-family-through-lifes-hard-things/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Teaching your children to understand their design and wiring will help set them up for success in life. In this episode we will talk through the language to use when parenting a perfectionist, physical outlets when frustration sets in and how to help your child have a kingdom mindset.   Check out these similar resources:  How do I help my kids with big emotions?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LFjLYA0c-8&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=3&t=71s How to ease the press for perfection in your parenting: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-ease-the-press-for-perfection-in-your-parenting/ Parenting overwhelmed children: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/parenting-overwhelmed-children-using-gods-story-to-help-navigate-big-emotions/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Managing sibling rivalry can be exhausting, but teaching your kids to fight well will set them up for success as adults. Join us as we talk through tips to help your children cool down and teach true reconciliation.   Check out these similar resources:    Stop the sibling rivalry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ma_5W99C3uA&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=27 Sibling Rivalry: How to survive daily conflict: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/sibling-rivalry-how-to-to-survive-daily-conflict/ Teaching your kids to fight well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pg6bC_ObwPE&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=24   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

When you have multiple kids, it can be easy to find yourself comparing them to their siblings. Join us as we encourage you to share with your child their unique contributions to the family, ask the Lord who he made each of your children to be and lean on each family member's strengths.   Check out these similar resources:  Trusting God's plan for my kids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbTyoz-_X9E&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=7&t=1s Helping our children love each other well: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-our-children-love-each-other-well/ Running into grace: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/running-into-grace/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Homework can be a frustrating battle where both you and your child end up in tears. Join us as we talk through ideas to set up a homework routine, fight negative self-talk and stay engaged with your child and teachers.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ Five things to remember as your kids start school: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/five-things-to-remember-as-your-kids-start-school/ 10 truths middle schoolers should know: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/10-truths-middle-schoolers-should-know/

When it comes to introducing new boyfriends/girlfriends into your kids' lives, the key is to take it slow and listen to your kids. We will encourage you to have open conversations with your kids, honor their pacing and be careful about infusing your lives too quickly.   Check out these similar resources:  How do I help my kids deal with divorce: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bet0-1rmNas&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=52&t=29s Helping your kids with the home is splintered: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-your-kids-when-the-home-is-splintered/ Guiding my girls as a solo mom: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/guiding-my-girls-as-a-solo-mom/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Grandparents are a huge blessing to our children, but sometimes they use different discipline techniques and methods.   Join us as we talk through how to have hard conversations with parents and in-laws, the importance of affirming their love and contribution, and when it is time to set boundaries.   Check out these similar resources:  Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend Teaching kids about boundaries How do I set boundaries with my parents and in-laws?

When it comes to preschoolers, you have to pick and choose which battles are worth fighting. Join us as we give you tips on how to step out of power struggles and give your preschooler choices.    Check out these similar resources:  Help! I am always saying no to my toddler: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_zYBI0w5Bs&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=19&t=12s Pointing your preschooler to Jesus: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/pointing-your-preschooler-to-jesus/ Discipling and sowing seeds of faith with toddlers: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/discipling-and-sowing-seeds-of-faith-with-toddlers/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

When it comes to allowance and chores, we think it is all about balance. There are some things you do because you are part of the family and some things you get paid for. Join us as we give you ideas and tips for finding the balance in your home.   Check out these similar resources:  Generosity starts in the home: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/generosity-starts-in-the-home/ Teaching kids to be smart with money: https://www.christianparenting.org/podcasts-post/teaching-kids-to-be-smart-with-money/  

Some children experience more worry and fear than others and creating a daytime plan is the first step to help your child overcome their fears and stay in bed. Join us as we talk through how to set up a comforting bedroom environment and reward system and remind you that consistency is the key.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping our kids overcome fear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UfMN78Huyc&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=40 Making a toolbox for anxiety: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/making-a-toolbox-for-anxiety/ How to help your child navigate anxiety: https://www.christianparenting.org/podcasts-post/how-to-help-your-child-navigate-anxiety/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

It is heartbreaking when your child chooses to walk away from God, but remember you are parenting the long game. Join us as we encourage you to ask clarifying and curious questions, stay engaged and walk you through the steps to practice effective listening.    Check out these similar resources:  Help! What do I do when my child is not attending church: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUGMCNxueX0&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=16&t=1s Return to sender: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/return-to-sender/ Raise your children to be independent: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/raise-your-children-to-be-independent-its-ok-if-its-hard/ Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org  

Potty talk with little boys is a very normal thing. As parents we need to communicate when and if that type of humor is appropriate. Join us as we walk through the ACT model to help curb unwanted behaviors in a positive loving way.   Check out these similar resources:  How do you balance discipline and grace in parenting?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMSG9xPfVNU&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=46 Raising boys with boundaries and freedoms: https://www.christianparenting.org/podcasts-post/raising-boys-with-boundaries-and-freedoms/ How to avoid power struggles with your children: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-avoid-power-struggles-with-your-children/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Kids are craving real connection and parents that will set some boundaries. How do we know when to enforce the rules and when it's ok to bend them because friends are over? Join us as we discuss technology and teens and give you tips for creating a fun, compelling environment that will help teens put their phones down and connect face to face.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping your son navigate the digital age: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-your-son-navigate-the-digital-age/ My kid is addicted to their phone, help!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaNDBkwVy58&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=4 What age should I let my child have social media?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tKuBeCXD24&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=40   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

There are many reasons a child might be a picky eater. Join us as we give you tips and tricks to make mealtime less of a battle. In this video, we talk through setting boundaries at mealtime, inviting your kids into the meal prep process and picking and choosing what battles are worth engaging in.   Check out these similar resources:  How to avoid power struggles with your children: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-avoid-power-struggles-with-your-children/ Help! I am always saying no to my toddler: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_zYBI0w5Bs&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=19&t=8s Three reasons your kid might be treating you disrespectfully: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/three-reasons-your-kid-might-be-treating-you-disrespectfully/   Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

College is a carefree wonderful time. Sometimes partying can become the thing to do, but it may be masking real life issues. Keep pursuing your college child and don't be afraid to let them know that you care and are worried. Join us as we give you some ideas on how to connect with your child at this stage of their life.   Check out these similar resources:  A word to parents of college-bound kids: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/counting-the-days-a-word-to-parents-of-college-bound-kids/ Parenting 2.0 - The empty nest stage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvDCkuT2qtw&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=21&t=1s The faith of your grown children: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/independent-dependents-the-faith-of-your-grown-children/

Divorce is hard, and having a support system for you and your child is so important. Join us as we talk through ways to help your children process grief, the importance of keeping routines consistent and how to guard against meeting your own needs through your children.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping your kids when the home is splintered: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-your-kids-when-the-home-is-splintered/ Seven ways children react to grief: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/seven-ways-children-react-to-grief/ Our kids are struggling too: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/our-kids-are-struggling-too-heres-how-to-help-them/ Dear Mattsons is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Discussing puberty and sex is a nerve racking conversation for every parent but having those conversations as a single mom presents its own unique challenges. Join us as we remind you that talking openly with your son about sexuality and the body takes shame out of the picture. It is great to pull a dad or male figure into the conversation if one is available, but don't be afraid to engage your son just because you are a mom.   Check out these similar resources:  When should I start talking to my kids about sex?: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/when-should-i-start-talking-to-my-kids-about-sex/ How do I talk to my child about sex? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfNaE1jLpKU&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=11&t=102s Good Pictures Bad Pictures: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Pictures-Bad-Porn-Proofing-Todays/dp/0997318732/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3L7B34EBRSHO5&keywords=Good+Pictures+Bad+pictures&qid=1674590594&sprefix=good+pictures+bad+pictur%2Caps%2C492&sr=8-1

Don't just talk about being thankful, teach your children how to serve others. Join us as we talk though ideas on how you can teach your kids to use the gifts that God has given them to serve others in your community. The experience of serving others helps curb entitlement.   Check out these similar resources:    Teaching kids to love their neighbor: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/teaching-kids-to-love-their-neighbor/   Raising generous kids who see others: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjaemZ9tcMk Raising grateful kids: Three ways to practice gratitude https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/raising-grateful-kids-three-ways-to-practice-gratitude/  

Introverts need more time and space to articulate their feelings. They enjoy the quiet spaces of the world, and if we want to connect with our introverts, we need to join them in those spaces. We will encourage you to figure out what your child is into, be curious, and join them in their passions. And remember silence is ok.   Check out these similar resources:  How to thrive as the parent of a sensitive teenager: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-thrive-as-the-parent-of-a-sensitive-teenager/ How fifteen minutes could save your relationship with your teen: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-fifteen-minutes-could-save-your-relationship-with-your-teen/ Hope for introverted moms: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/hope-for-introverted-moms/

Keep it simple and point your child towards God's Word and his design for families when these questions arise. We will encourage you to continue to talk about God's love, how we can love and serve families that are different from us and how to point your children to what we are for as opposed to what we are against as Chrisitans. Check out these similar resources:  How do I explain homosexuality to my kids?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_-6OKLvjms&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=21&t=1s How to tackle tough topics with your kids: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-tackle-tough-topics-with-your-kids/ The Jesus Storybook Bible: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Storybook-Bible-Every-Whispers/dp/0310708257/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1VX3UU31PVC6J&keywords=story+book+bible&qid=1663599562&sprefix=story+book+bible%2Caps%2C277&sr=8-4

Grace and discipline are not exclusive of each other and parenting requires both. Rules without relationship breeds rebellion and on the flip side relationship without rules leads to entitlement. Join us as we talk through how to find a balance between discipline and grace in parenting.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ Parenting teens: Grace or consequences?: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/parenting-teens-grace-or-consequences/ Modeling and teaching love: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/modeling-and-teaching-love-it-starts-with-christ/

What do you do if your child gets caught cheating at school? It is important to get to the root of why your child cheated and determine an appropriate consequence. Join us as we discuss the three things you need to address if your child cheats.   Check out these similar resources:  When your child has a character misstep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4bAqKQW9A0&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=5&t=10s 3 character qualities that set your child up for success: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/3-character-qualities-that-set-your-kids-up-for-success/ Helping your child with lying: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-your-child-with-lying/  

Children begin to discover and learn the differences between boys and girls between the ages of 2 and 4. It is very normal for them to be curious about their bodies. We will guide you through how to help your children understand what their bodies are for, their design and healthy coping mechanisms.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ When should I start talking to my kids about sex?: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/when-should-i-start-talking-to-my-kids-about-sex/ Tough conversations with our kids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCxbgR0Tp8o&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRPOxygemmbhhIOCD67AvSx&index=11&t=6s Teaching kids about boundaries: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/teaching-kids-about-boundaries/  

Children lie for a variety of reasons, and it is important to get to the root of lying. Affirm your love for your child, so that they know their actions do not affect your love for them. Join us as we talk through ways to encourage your child to tell the truth, what to do when you catch them in a lie and the importance of setting a good example in truth telling.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ Helping your child with lying: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-your-child-with-lying/ When your child has a character misstep: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/when-your-child-has-a-character-misstep/ Children are complex: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/children-are-complex/

Children need to see parents as a team with both participating in the discipline and fun. Join us as we talk through how to encourage your spouse, affirm each other in parenting and explain the “why” behind joint discipline.    Check out these similar resources:  Prioritize your marriage over your parenting: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/why-you-should-prioritize-your-marriage-over-your-parenting/ Parenting from a healthy marriage with Jamie and Aaron Ivey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZonZdGSYxkA How to model God's design for marriage: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-model-gods-design-for-marriage

Yelling works in the short term, but eventually children will ignore the yelling. It is ok to take a parent time-out and calm yourself before you respond to a situation. Join us as we talk through the ACT method and encourage you to acknowledge your child's emotion, communicate a limit, and target an alternative.    Check out these similar resources:  How do I keep from losing my temper and yelling at my children?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6I_X4SKQUI&t=4s Visuals over verbals: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/visuals-over-verbals/ 5 ways to be a better parent and not repeat your parent's mistakes: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/5-ways-to-be-a-better-parent-and-not-repeat-your-parents-mistakes/  

The teenage years are a developmental stage that require a lot of patience and grace. But, we do not want to normalize or tolerate that teens talk back to their parents. You are helping your children develop a life skill and how we talk to each other is important. Join us as we give you tips on how to react when your tween or teens talk back.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ Practical help for parents raising teens: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/practical-help-for-parents-raising-teens/ How to avoid power struggles with your children: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/how-to-avoid-power-struggles-with-your-children/ Decide to discipline: Tweens and teens: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/decide-discipline-tweens-teens/

Being consistent and following through on what you say are so important in parenting. They are the keys to building trust and help children feel safe. Join us as we give you practical tips to get your child's attention and let them know you mean what you say.    Check out these similar resources:  Help! I am always saying “No” to my toddler: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_zYBI0w5Bs&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=19&t=5s Raising rule benders, breakers and believers: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/raising-rule-benders-breakers-and-believers/ Raising boys with boundaries and freedoms: https://www.christianparenting.org/podcasts-post/raising-boys-with-boundaries-and-freedoms/

There is really not a compelling reason for our kids to have social media. The data is clear and there is a direct correlation to all of the mental health issues kids are struggling with and social media. Join us as we talk through why it is important to regulate the overwhelming pressures our kids are facing today by delaying social media as long as possible.   Check out these similar resources:  Social media, screens, and the overindulgence of information: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/social-media-screens-and-the-overindulgence-of-information/ What if you kids already have screens, and you're having second thoughts?: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/what-if-your-kids-already-have-screens-and-youre-having-second-thoughts/ Helping your son navigate the digital age: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-your-son-navigate-the-digital-age/

How do we address gender pronouns and sexuality with our kids? As professionals in leadership and therapy we have been processing this with parents and kids for many years. We will encourage you to stay curious, research topics as questions arise and step into these conversations with your children. Your voice as the parent is the key factor in how your children will react to these issues, so remember to approach sensitive topics with truth, grace and gentleness.   Check out these similar resources:  How to approach transgender topics with your teen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_EPogLO-W4&list=PLdPzQ_cUwCbRc-MQ40KL3a6ze06CiY38l&index=24&t=26s Embodied: Transgender Identities, The Church, and What the Bible Has to Say: https://www.amazon.com/Embodied-Transgender-Identities-Church-Bible/dp/0830781226 Helping moms raise confident daughters: https://www.cpguides.org/ Meet them with Jesus: Responding biblically to our kids' problems: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/meet-them-with-jesus-responding-biblically-to-our-kids-problems/ Talking to your kids about dating and relationships: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/talking-with-your-kids-about-dating-and-relationships/

God wired us all differently and some children just need a few friends and others prefer a large circle of friends. Join us as we talk through practical ideas to help your child build lasting friendships. We will also encourage you to affirm your child so that they feel known and seen and will in turn be better at engaging with others.   Check out these similar resources:  The friendship fix Three character qualities that set your kids up for success Navigating friendships with our kids Living Wholehearted Episodes 2-5, 140-141 Helping moms raise confident daughters

As a parent, we want to equip our children and be the first voice they hear on topics like sexuality and gender. Join us as we talk through options when it comes to opting in or out of public school health curriculum and how to know if it's too much too soon. We will encourage you to consider your children's differences, what they may be vulnerable to and to know the curriculum being taught.   Check out these similar resources:  When should I talking to my kids about sex? How to tackle tough topics with your kids Talking about sex: big words for little ears Helping moms raise confident daughters      

We want to protect our children from school bullies, but the reality is the greatest defense against bullies is building up our child's confidence and sense of identity. Join us as we talk through how to coach your child to have healthy boundaries, ways to build their confidence and how to identify red, yellow and green light relationships.   Check out these similar resources:  Teaching kids about boundaries Try these helpful parenting phrases Back to blahs, blues and bullies too Helping moms raise confident daughters

The most important thing to remember if your child says “I hate you” is not to react or take it personally. We all say things we don't mean when we are tired, hungry or afraid, and we put these emotions on those we feel safest with. We will remind you to ask questions, not let your children's behaviors dictate how you love them, and to get professional help if this is an ongoing issue.

God created your child and knows the plans he has for them. When we get our perspective as parents in check it helps lead our children in peace. It is important to remind our children to work hard and do their best, but who they are as a person is separate from what they do. We will remind you to frame this conversation as an adventure, remember that there are a lot of options besides college, and that ultimately we can't mess up God's plan.   Check out these similar resources:  A word to parents of college-bound kids Return to sender 3 promises for your college bound child

Two year olds are learning that they can do it themselves and build confidence apart from you. There is a balance between giving them freedom to learn cause and effect and disciplining. Join us as we talk through ideas on how to give your toddler choices that will help them feel independent while also setting boundaries.   Check out these similar resources: Help! I am always saying “No” to my toddler Decide to discipline: Toddlers  Pointing your preschooler to Jesus

We live in an achievement oriented culture and the pressure to know your expertise at an early age is an outside pressure. As a parent we want to help our children discover their passions, but remember it takes time to figure out what you are good at and what you enjoy. It is important to remind your child that we are not what we do. Join us as we talk through ideas to help your child find out how they are wired and what activities they may enjoy.    Check out these similar resources:  Are parents ruining youth sports? To the mom whose kid didn't make the honor society How to raise DIY kids Core Values Index

You are the parent and need to discern what's best for you and your child, but we say no to sleepovers in our family. It's about risk assessment, and we decided sleepovers are not worth the risk. A lot of experimentation and exposure occurs at sleepovers and just because a family says they love Jesus does not mean they are safe. Join us as we discuss “late overs” and ways your child can join in the fun without the risk of sleepovers.   Check out these similar resources:  Teaching kids about boundaries Talking about sex: Big words for little ears Messengers of mercy: Teaching hard lessons to our kids Helping moms raise confident daughters

It's normal that teens begin to pull away from their family and are focused on their peer group, so what do you do when that impacts the church they want to attend? Join us as we walk you through steps to sit down and have an open conversation with your teen. We will encourage you to validate, empathize and help your child think critically about the reasons behind their desire for change and be prepared to compromise if appropriate.   Check out these similar resources:  Teenagers are church members, too What if my child hates church? Why engaging teens with scripture is mission-critical Helping moms raise confident daughters

Anxiety at all age levels is at an all time high. Children have not had the opportunity to navigate normal social situations the past few years, so they may be extra anxious when new situations arise. Join us as we walk through tips to prepare your children for new situations and what to do when anxiety arises.   Links for Supplemental Resources: Making a toolbox for anxiety Three things your kids need today 10 Bible verses about anxiety Helping moms raise confident daughters

It's natural to do some comparing when you have children the same age, but it can quickly turn into a competition. Close friendships go through seasons, and it's important to view conflict as an opportunity to grow closer and deepen true friendships. Join us as we talk about healthy ways to move through conflict.   Check out these similar resources:  Helping our children love each other well Three tips for managing family conflict as a solo parent Three reasons why I am a “Judgy Mom” and three ways to stop Helping moms raise confident daughters

Join us as we discuss sibling rivalry and how to encourage our family members to intentionally affirm each other. We will walk you through practical ways to encourage your children to celebrate their siblings' gifts and achievements. Competition isn't a bad thing, but sometimes we need to reframe it so that our children acknowledge and see others' gifts as well as their own.   Check out these similar resources:  https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/helping-our-children-love-each-other-well/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/are-your-kids-sick-of-each-other/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/sibling-harmony/

Whining is a form of manipulation and we need to teach our children a better way to communicate. Join us as we walk through 3 important communication skills your children need to learn to stop the whining. Teaching our kids healthy forms of communication is a life skill worth investing in.   Check out these similar resources:  https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/3-ways-to-love-your-challenging-toddler-well/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/becoming-sensitive-to-gods-presence-in-a-hypersensitive-world/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/try-helpful-parenting-phrases/

As our children grow into adulthood, we have to lean into the investments we have made in them throughout their childhood. If you do not approve of the relationship choices your child is making, we will encourage you to express your concerns, give tangible reasons for your opinions, and open up the lines of communications. We will also remind you that sometimes it is appropriate to keep our opinions to ourselves and give the situation to God.   Check out these similar resources:  https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/learning-to-trust-god-with-your-adult-children/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/independent-dependents-the-faith-of-your-grown-children/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/letting-go/

Time out is a great method to calm ourselves down, and it teaches children to self regulate their emotions. We will walk you through effective ways to use the time out and time in approach with your child and encourage you to use it as a parent when you need a break as well.   Check out these similar resources:  https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/visuals-over-verbals/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/help-kids-learn-mistakes/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/children-are-complex/

What do you do if your child tells you they are transgender? As a professional counselor we have been processing this with parents and kids for many years. It's ok to be sad and concerned, but don't panic, this doesn't surprise God. We will encourage you to get support, continue to pursue a relationship with your child and hold the tension of love and truth as you navigate this journey.   Links for Supplemental Resources: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/meet-them-with-jesus-responding-biblically-to-our-kids-problems/ https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/talking-with-your-kids-about-dating-and-relationships/   https://www.centerforfaith.com/    Embodied: Transgender Identities, The Church, and What the Bible Has to Say  Living in a Gray World: A Christian Teen Guide to understanding Homosexuality  Gay Girl, Good God  https://jackiehillperry.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sj-ddtUHPc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZmV56uE7CE