Parenting Today’s Teens

(Click title to listen)PODCAST SCRIPT: When it comes to our digital lives, privacy is a big issue. Adults know the importance of keeping our bank accounts, our passwords and our emails secure.  But for moms and dads with teens under their roof, privacy takes on a new look.  How much latitude do we allow teens on the computer and with their smart phones?  Are parents supposed to pry? Okay, a few hints.  First, determine what you will or won’t allow in your home.  When it comes to online behavior, make the boundaries age- appropriate!  Then …communicate your expectations… and stand by the consequences!  If you need to, monitor Facebook or texts.  But do it for the health and safety of your child… not just to control them! Privacy is a luxury.  But an involved parent is essential!   ©2013 Mark Gregston www.parentingtodaysteens.org. Email: markgregston@heartlightministries.org. Phone: 1-866-700-3264Also, listen via iTunes here.

(Click title to listen)PODCAST SCRIPT: When you’re bringin’ up teenagers… it’s all too easy to be quick on advice …and long on lectures. James chapter 1, verse 19 says, “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.”  Man, I often get those things mixed up.  I’ll be lightening- fast in my reprimands… especially when I’m miffed! Think about that biblical formula today.  Does it describe your parenting style?  Is your first response to listen?  Or are you a little too eager to add your opinion to the conversation? Before you start doubting your parenting skills… take a breath.  You don’t need to be perfect… just take a baby step.  Make today different.  Choose to listen right now. By God’s grace, He can make you “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.”   ©2013 Mark Gregston www.parentingtodaysteens.org. Email: markgregston@heartlightministries.org. Phone: 1-866-700-3264Also, listen via iTunes here.

(Click title to listen)HALF-HOUR PODCAST SUMMARY: When our teens disappoint us or make our lives difficult, the last thing we want to do is love on them!  But on this broadcast of Parenting Today’s Teens, Mark Gregston encourages us to do just that—to show kindness to our kids when they least deserve it.  It’s that kind of love that transforms kids and strengthens relationships! Special Guest:  Dee Dee Mayer ©2012 Mark Gregston www.parentingtodaysteens.org. Email: markgregston@heartlightministries.org. Phone: 1-866-700-3264Also, listen via iTunes here.

(Click title to listen)PODCAST SCRIPT: Moms and dads often ask me for practical things they can do to improve their relationship with a teen.  They’re like, “Mark, what can I do today to turn our relationship around?” Let me suggest five practical things to get you started.  Just pick one … here goes …  Don’t point out everything your kid could do better. Ask a question and listen for the answer. Don’t share your opinion unless asked for it. Praise your son or daughter in public. Make time this week for a father- son or mother- daughter date. Connecting with your teen takes initiative.  I hope one little change will make a big impact on your relationship with your teen!   ©2012 Mark Gregston www.parentingtodaysteens.org. Email: markgregston@heartlightministries.org. Phone: 1-866-700-3264Also, listen via iTunes here.