Podcast

Focus on the Family Parenting

Leisure

Focus on the Family Parenting is here to help in building life-giving families. https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/

Episodes
230
Releases
Twice a week
Typical length
32 min
On air since
2023
Latest episode
2 months ago

Episodes

230 episodes, newest first

  1. Raising Gen Alpha/Gen Anxious Part 2

    Show notes

    Danny and Rebecca continue their conversation with Dave Boden about raising Gen Alpha (born 2010–2024) in an AI-shaped world. He describes risks of AI chatbots giving unsafe advice and reducing real-life relationships, and he outlines big data’s influence. Practical guidance includes parents learning AI realities, modeling healthy tech habits, answering teens’ identity/purpose/belonging questions through faith, family, and church, and prioritizing in-person rhythms. They also highlight SMART tech benefits and discuss balancing tech limits in homeschooling. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    28 min
  2. Raising Gen Alpha/Gen Anxious

    Show notes

    Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    28 min
  3. Christian Worldview At Home & At School - Part 2

    Show notes

    Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James host part two with Billy Hutchinson, director of Colson Educators at the Colson Center on equipping parents to foster a biblical Christian worldview amid cultural pressures. They discuss, building relational “capital,” treating people as image-bearers, and parenting with an authoritative style. Practical take-a-ways include encouraging a safe space for questions about God, serving others, and meaningful liturgies like prayer and blessings. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    29 min
  4. Christian Worldview At Home & At School - Part 1

    Show notes

    How can you bolster your child\'s Christian worldview? Danny and Rebecca speak with Billy Hutchinson, of The Colson Center, and he urges parents to be primary disciple makers through intentional teaching and daily practices He gives tips on how to monitor school assignments, assess whether conflicts are occasional or systemic, and even how to request alternate assignments if the school is pushing your parenting boundaries. We also tackle how to address “woke” and LGBT ideologies through our Q & A. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    26 min
  5. Equipping Parents For Back To School

    Show notes

    Dr. Danny Huerta hosts a special episode with Focus on the Family Policy Analyst, Jeff Johnston to brief parents on recent US Supreme Court developments affecting education. From \"opting out\" of assignments, to gender specific sports teams, we\'ll give you what you need to know for the start of the school year. We even discuss how to approach teachers, school administrations, and even school boards when a line has been crossed. Make sure you share this episode with all of the parents you\'re meeting at your child\'s school, and download the Equipping Parents for Back to School 2026 resource, too! Helpful Parenting Resources: Get Your Free Download of Equipping Parents For Back To School 2026: https://sf.fotf.com/txl7w1 Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    32 min
  6. Helping Moms Understand God\'s Truth

    Show notes

    Have you ever asked yourself if what you believe is REALLY true? Or is it something that culture has influenced in your day to day life? Danny and Rebecca welcome Erica Ligenza Gwynn to discuss her book, That’s Just Not True. Erica shares how motherhood exposed half-truths like “I can do anything,” and discusses trusting God through problems rather than doing everything to prevent them. They explore lies such as “I’m stuck,” “I messed it all up”, and “I’ll be happy when...”. We\'re emphasizing joy, gratitude, and contentment. In the Q&A, we advise a listener worried about generational patterns of children outside marriage. This program encourages prayer, community, honest future conversations. Helpful Parenting Resources: Get the \"Gratikube\" HERE: https://store.focusonthefamily.com/gratikube/ Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    37 min
  7. Practice Makes Parent Q&A!

    Show notes

    It\'s another Q & A Show where Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James answer your parenting questions. This time, we advise a single mom in Compton, address a worried mom about her 17-year-old pursuing entertainment, and we respond to a child who dislikes spanking, We also help a mom whose 12-year-old is cutting, and counsel a dad of a sensitive 5-year-old to affirm his temperment and sexuality. Have you sent your questions in? Just click on the show notes and you can be a part of our next Q & A Show. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    39 min
  8. Teaching Children Values

    Show notes

    Rebecca St. James and Dr. Danny Huerta discuss concerns about declining patriotism among younger Americans with Dr. Ben Carson, who shares his childhood story of poverty, his mother’s emphasis on reading and personal responsibility, and how those shaped his trajectory. There are lots of resources mentioned for parents to help their children learn about history in this one. We know you\'ll enjoy it! Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    34 min
  9. The Simple Parenting Idea Your Kids Will Never Forget

    Show notes

    Sometimes the most powerful parenting moments come from the simplest ideas. In this video, discover how a simple jar filled with encouraging notes, Scriptures, riddles, questions, and surprise coupons can create meaningful connection with your children. This intentional parenting tool helps: Build stronger relationships Create anticipation and excitement Encourage meaningful conversations Reinforce family values and faith Create memorable moments that last for years The beauty of this idea isn\'t in the jar itself—it\'s in the repeated moments of connection it creates over time. Whether your children are young or older, this simple practice can bring more joy, encouragement, and intentionality into your home. Subscribe for more practical parenting ideas that strengthen family relationships. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    5 min
  10. Fun Ways to Teach Theology

    Show notes

    What are ways to teach your children about the Glory of God? Ryan Frederick, co-founder of FierceMarriage.com and author of the Adam and Iota series, explains vocabulary and theology to help children build discernment and strengthen their identity in Christ. We also answer a listener question from an overwhelmed mom with three young kids. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    33 min
  11. When Motherhood Feels Like Too Much

    Show notes

    Every parent hits a breaking point—but burnout doesn’t mean you’re failing. This conversation explores what to do when you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and like you have nothing left to give. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    16 min
  12. Understanding Adaptability in Parenting

    Show notes

    In this episode of \'Practice Makes Parent,\' Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss the significance of adaptability in effective parenting. They share personal anecdotes and strategies for being flexible with children. They also introduce concepts like psychological flexibility, maintaining a bigger picture mindset, continuous learning, and creating a de-stress menu. We also help a listener with her question on when to start disciplining a child. They conclude with the \'7, 7, 7 Parenting Technique\' for fostering stronger family bonds through focused attention. Pass this link on to your friends and family! Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    27 min
  13. How to Change the Atmosphere in Your Home Instantly - Whitney Newby

    Show notes

    Focus on the Family\'s Dr. Danny Huerta and social media influencer Whitney Newby talk about how the way you respond to your kids shapes the environment they grow up in. One small shift in your words can deeply change your relationship and their identity. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Parenting Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Parenting Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU Whitney Newby: https://www.instagram.com/brighterdaypress Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Whitney\'s Story 01:54 Why Speaking Blessings Matters 04:29 Changing the Atmosphere in Your Home 06:15 Using Scripture to Bless Your Children 11:59 Blessing Children Ages 0–5 15:53 Blessing Kids Ages 5–8 19:20 Blessing Preteens (Ages 9–12) 22:24 Everyday Opportunities to Speak Life 24:16 Creating Meaningful Blessing Ceremonies 28:26 Speaking Life Into Teenagers 39:08 Restoring Relationships Through Blessing 40:02 Final Encouragement #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling #brighterdaypress

    41 min
  14. Dealing with Anger In Parenting

    Show notes

    Anger is common and contagious in families. How do you handle agner in parenting? Janelle Brighten Stein, author of \"How to Stop Yelling Up the Stairs\" shares her story with Danny and Rebecca. They explore how anger can reveal stress, deeper emotions, and heart issues. We\'ll give you some ideas to work on. We also answer a listener question on whether outsiders should confront disrespectful teens. Send us your thoughts, too! Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    40 min
  15. How to Build Confidence and Character in Your Son

    Show notes

    Boys are always watching and learning from the men around them. In this video, we talk about why positive male role models matter, how they shape identity, and how to intentionally guide who your son looks up to. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    8 min
  16. Launching Into the Teen Years

    Show notes

    Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss Launch Into the Teen Years curriculum, and Rebecca’s daughter Gemma shares how she felt as a young girl going through it. You\'ll hear flexible ways families use the six-session resource, and we share how to have relational, age-appropriate conversation about bodies, boundaries, identity in Christ, peer pressure, and God’s design for sex within marriage with kids. We also take a listener question about what to do when your kids walk in on you and your spouse having sex. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    28 min
  17. How to Stop Feeling Like a Bad Parent

    Show notes

    Comparison, regret, and guilt can quietly destroy your confidence as a parent. In this powerful conversation, we talk about how to break free from comparison, let go of regret, and lead your kids with grace instead of pressure. Guest: Rhonda Stoppe - https://www.rhondastoppe.com Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    24 min
  18. Legacy Parenting for Dads

    Show notes

    In celebration of Father\'s Day, Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss legacy parenting, focusing on the evolving role of dads in modern culture with Pastor Jeffrey Hamilton, founder of Dad Academy. Dad, are you present? Prayerful? Purposeful? This conversation advocates for intentional and hands-on approaches to parenting. Then, we address a listener\'s concern about her husband needing decompression time after work, suggesting strategies for balancing work and family life. The episode is filled with practical advice for fathers and mothers alike, aimed at improving parenting skills and fostering deeper family connections. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    34 min
  19. Parent Burnout Is Real (Here’s What To Do)

    Show notes

    Parenting burnout is real—and it can leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and inadequate. In this conversation, we talk about what burnout really looks like and how to find strength, support, and hope in the middle of it. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    21 min
  20. Teaching Your Kids To Read The Bible

    Show notes

    Do you want to help your kids internalize the Word of God? Today, we talk about the tools and techniques that can help your children with Mary Wiley, author of Discovering The Bible. She explains building a home culture of curiosity where questions are welcomed, parents can say “I don’t know,” and the Bible is seen as one redemptive story about Jesus. You\'ll learn four fun study steps and hear advice for handling difficult passages in an age-appropriate way. We also answer a listener\'s question on preparing kids for secular school by role-playing responses, emphasizing kindness, confidence, and compassion. Helpful Parenting Resources: Focus on the Family Parenting: https://bit.ly/3aPx4af Focus on the Family Age & Stage: https://MyKidsAge.com Free Parenting Assessment: https://bit.ly/3Pwo8gi 7 Traits of Effective Parenting: https://bit.ly/3CNfNi6 Practice Makes Parent Podcast: https://bit.ly/3DuZGpC Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZFhmG8 Facebook: https://bit.ly/4gLzhBU #focusonthefamily #practicemakesparent #parentingtips #christianparenting #homeschooling

    42 min