Parenting Today's Teens Heartlight

When teens struggle with perfectionism or low self-esteem, social media can seem like an easy way to get validation — but unfortunately, it often makes the problem worse. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies from Heartlight, including Carly, who opens up about the repercussions of bullying on her self-esteem. She reflects on rebelling against her parents and getting obsessed with her phone, seeking the opinions and approval of others on social media. Tune in to these insightful interviews!
Is Heartlight the answer for your struggling teen? Learn more about the program at heartlightministries.org
Parenting Today's Teens 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

Each stage of parenting presents its own challenges, and arguably, none are as daunting as the teen years, a time when kids encounter complex issues, including those related to sexuality and relationships. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd address the challenging topic of maintaining teen purity amidst a culture saturated with messages of sexual promiscuity. They encourage parents to engage with their teens about this issue openly to protect and prepare them for healthier, happier relationships. Listen in now!
For more practical advice on helping your teens navigate these issues, check out our eBook, "Teens and Dating." Download it at bit.ly/teens-and-dating
Parenting Today's Teens 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

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles tough conversations that can leave any parent feeling lost. Whether it's the struggle to converse with a defiant teen, the heartache of a mother discovering her son viewing porn or the desire to stay connected with a grown-up daughter living with her boyfriend, he offers empathy, realistic advice and encouragement. If you’re a parent who is earnestly trying to bridge gaps and build a stronger bond with your teen, listen now!
Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com
Parenting Today's Teens 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

Helicopter parenting, while well-intentioned, can hinder our teenagers from developing the necessary skills to succeed in the real world. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the pitfalls of over-protecting our kids, and the challenges of letting go. They emphasize the importance of entrusting teens with choices, managing the consequences of those choices effectively and celebrating their strides towards independence. Tune in now!
For more inspiration and encouragement, check out Mark's newest devotional, "Daily Hope For Families," at dailyhopeforfamilies.com
Parenting Today's Teens 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

Embracing the mundane, everyday moments with teens opens doors to deeper conversations. One of the best ways to show your child they matter is through attentiveness to the little things. Through the lens of 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, Mark shares anecdotes of his own journey in today's show, highlighting the valuable lessons he absorbed from mentors who chose to foster hope over criticism. He explains how the nurturing presence and wise words of role models helped shape his values and calling. Listen in!
For more on connecting with your kids, check out our free "Bridging the Gap With Your Teen" e-course. Enroll now at bit.ly/bridging-the-gap-course
Parenting Today's Teens 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

Teens make poor decisions for a lot of different reasons, but it's usually not just to be rebellious. Whether it's loneliness, a cry for love or projecting anger, there's always motivation behind the behavior. In today's show, Mark is joined by two young women from Heartlight who share the struggles they were going through before arriving at the boarding school. For Elizabeth, a tumultuous journey of broken trust and a desperate search for acceptance led to rule-breaking behaviors. Don't miss these interviews!
To learn more about the Heartlight program, go to heartlightministries.org
Parenting Today's Teens 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