Parenting Today's Teens Heartlight

Listening is more than just hearing words — it’s about understanding the heart behind them. As a parent, active listening can transform your relationship with your teen! In today's show, Mark shares some personal anecdotes and practical examples that illustrate the detrimental effects of dismissing or generalizing our teens' struggles and offers advice on how to create an atmosphere for open communication. Whether it's understanding their unique perspective, resisting the urge to correct every detail or offering a judgment-free ear, this episode equips parents with the tools to become better listeners. Tune in!
For more help understanding what's going on in your teen's life, read "What's Happening To My Teen?" Get your copy today at bit.ly/whats-happening-teen
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

Developing a sense of identity as a teen is already a tough job, but when the heaviness of depression sets in, their self-worth can completely plummet. In today's show, Mark sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight who reflect on the circumstances that brought them there. Emily opens up about her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, and how her stay at Heartlight helped her rebuild trust in herself and others. Tune in for these powerful interviews!
To learn more about the Heartlight residential 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

From bizarre trends to dangerous challenges, the digital age bombards teens with harmful ideas. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the rise of extreme behaviors influenced by media, the alarming prevalence of self-harm, drinking, sexual promiscuity and drug use. They also share valuable strategies for parents to intervene effectively, build trust and guide their teens through these turbulent times. Join us as we explore how to foster a culture of respect and understanding in your home!
For more ideas on building connection, check out our FREE e-course, "Bridging The Gap With Your Teen." Enroll 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

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your toughest questions. From dealing with social exclusion and sibling rivalries to initiating difficult conversations with college-aged children, Mark offers invaluable insights and practical advice. Whether it's understanding the dynamics of online friendships, handling school choices or addressing more severe issues like treatment for eating disorders, this episode is packed with guidance and wisdom. If you’re looking to forge a stronger, more understanding relationship with your teen, tune in 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

As a parent, you need to check your ego at the door. When your teen makes a mistake, it's not an opportunity to showcase your authority, but rather to respond in a way that paves the path to their growth. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore historical methods of discipline and contrast them with more constructive approaches that prioritize the child's learning and relationship with parents. They offer practical advice on how to approach teens when they misstep by using strategic conversation starters, asking insightful questions and avoiding damaging accusations. Remember that confrontation, handled with love and understanding, isn't just resolving today's issue — it's teaching important life skills for tomorrow. Listen 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

As parents, we love our children deeply, and naturally, we want the best for them. But, our expectations can sometimes convey a pursuit of perfection, which is overwhelming for our kids. In this show, Mark draws from his personal experiences and the struggles of colleagues to illustrate how perfectionism can inadvertently place immense pressure on teens, skewing their perceptions of love and acceptance. He advises parents to foster genuine relationships and understanding, ultimately guiding teens to find comfort in their own imperfections. Don't miss this episode!
For more help understanding what's going on in your teen's life and the challenges they face, check out Mark's book, "When Your Teen Is Struggling." Order your copy at bit.ly/teen-is-struggling
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