The MAVEN Parent Podcast: Recent Episodes
Brett and Erin Kunkle
Brett and Erin Kunkle guide you through Christian parenting in a secular culture, with wisdom and a bunch of practical help.
Parents, do you need to "do better?" Popular parenting influencer BillyVSCO thinks so, ending each of his parenting videos with this mantra. He's one of hundreds of prominent social media voices offering parenting advice on everything from discipline to discipleship. So how can Christian parents possibly sort through all the contradictory advice and noise online? In this episode, Brett and Erin respond to a couple of BillyVSCO's videos and walk you through strategies for sifting through good and bad parenting advice.
How does Scripture define faith? Last week, we discussed some of the mistaken views of faith that are popular in the church today. In this episode, Brett and Erin explore 3 key Scriptures that help us accurately define faith, and equip you with some practical parenting strategies for passing a true view of faith to your kids.
Listen to Part 1 of this conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSzMM_mSYY8
Check out our interview with Greg Koukl here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrpDIVMSwMA
How would you define faith? Does it depend on how many Bible facts we know or is faith just a feeling? Unfortunately, many Christians hold a mistaken view of faith and don't even know it. We hear the word "faith" used by pastors, fellow Christians, and sometimes even by atheists. But, how many of us know what it really means? In this episode, Brett and Erin unpack some of the most prevalent mistaken views of faith that have seeped into the church today.
When our kids have questions or hang-ups about faith, is there a strategic way to approach those conversations? How can we equip our kids well so that one day they are ripe to become ambassadors for Christ? In this episode, Brett and Erin talk with Greg Koukl, a Christian apologist, author, and the president of Stand To Reason about his new book, Street Smarts, and about how parents can use questions to pass on their faith to their kids and give them tools to navigate our culture.
Buy Greg's book here: https://store.str.org/purchase/street-smarts
Happy New Year to the MAVEN Parent Podcast community! Are you ready for 2024? At MAVEN, we want to come alongside and support you in the discipleship of you and your kids in the year ahead. In this episode, Brett and Erin outline MAVEN's upcoming resources in 2024 to help you plan your year with intentionality.
MAVEN Conferences: https://www.mavenconferences.com/
Open Enrollment Trip: https://maventruth.com/open-enrollment/
Is it just us or has it been a long time since a solid film with solid values rocked our culture? So many of the classic films seem to be aware of right and wrong in a way that's painfully absent in Hollywood today. Is it possible to reclaim any of this cultural worldview consensus? In this episode, Brett and Erin talk with Dr. Onalee McGraw, known for her tenure on the National Council on Education Research under the Reagan administration, about her project with the Educational Guidance Institute. Brett and Erin delve into Dr. McGraw's mission: educating kids about classic films and cultivating a taste for good, true, and beautiful things.
Humility is a Christian virtue, and it often manifests itself in our teachability. And as adults trying to disciple the next generation through some unprecedented cultural waters, we need to remain teachable in order to adapt and grow so that we can be most effective in teaching and guiding our children. In this episode, Brett and Erin share 10 lessons learned this year that will encourage and challenge you.
Philippians chapter two describes one of the most significant moments in human history and provides us the reason why we worship during Christmas: God became man. The Incarnation is the supreme act of God’s selfless love and His greatest gift to humankind. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss how Christmas is a perfect time to hold up Christ as the selfless example for our kids to follow. They also provide some very practical advice about helping our kids to give gifts to others, in ways that help cultivate unselfishness and generosity.
Should parents break the law to secure their kid's future? Desperate Housewife actress Felicity Huffman made news for her recent comments offering this justification for her role in the explosive 2019 college admissions scandal. We may think such extremes examples are only fit for Hollywood, but Christian parents and educators unknowingly adopt the same secular values that undergird Huffman’s illegal actions on behalf of her daughter. That’s why we must regularly examine what our vision of success is in the lives of our kids. Is it acceptance into a prestigious college? Is it a good job? Is it attaining enough wealth to live comfortably? Ultimately, God’s Word and not the secular culture must inform every thought we have and decision we make on behalf of our kids.
Philosophy has a major public relations problem. The word conjures up images of dusty books and ivory towers, far removed from the realities of normal life. But what if philosophy is actually one of the most practical subjects of study that has serious implications for our deepest of human needs? In this episode, Brett and Erin talk with philosopher Dr. Ross Inman about his new book, Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder. Dr. Inman makes a compelling case that philosophy is valuable, practical, and significant for every aspect of Christian life and ministry and, therefore, has tremendous value for our parenting, as well.
Dr. Inman's books: https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Philosophy-Way-Life-Invitation/dp/1540965732/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3CJV4JA0E4CNE&keywords=Christian+Philosophy+as+a+Way+of+Life&qid=1701300252&sprefix=christian+philosophy+as+a+way+of+life%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1
Advent, the first season of the Christian church year, is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our kids’ understanding of the Incarnation and help lead them into a more thoughtful season of worshipping Christ our King. In this episode, Brett & Erin interview Rebecca Zipp of A Humble Place to discuss ways we can incorporate Advent celebrations and even slow down the rhythms of the bustling Christmas season.
As parents, we’re properly concerned about our kids being teachable. But even as adults, we must also remain teachable so that we can continue to grow in our knowledge and wisdom as parents and the spiritual leaders of our homes. What things reveal our resistance or unwillingness to learn, be challenged or even receive correction? How does an unteachable spirit reveal our lack of humility before the Lord? In this episode, Brett and Erin help us to honestly assess our teachability and offer practical steps to help us become more teachable.
At the recent MAVEN Conference in Texas, attendees sent in their questions all throughout the weekend. The conference Q&A panel was only able to cover a limited amount of questions, so in this podcast episode, Brett and Erin dive in and answer questions about males wearing makeup and navigating secular music.
In a broken and fallen world, discouragement is a given, especially when it comes to our families. When our marriage is rocky, when our kids are struggling, or when other trials hit us, we can be overwhelmed by discouragement. So what do we do in those times? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss the reality of discouragement and three biblical truths that can renew our minds and prevent us from allowing discouragement to turn into despair.
The results of a recent Barna study are sobering: the vast majority of Christian kids do not have a biblical worldview. Parents and church leaders must redouble their efforts and be intentional in teaching biblical truth to their kids. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss five practical ways we can pass along a biblical worldview.
Check out our open enrollment immersive experience here: https://maventruth.com/open-enrollment/
According to recent Barna research, the vast majority of our kids do NOT have a Christian worldview. Barna identified seven cornerstones of a biblical worldview that significantly increase the chances that our kids and students will go on to develop a robust Christian worldview. Sadly, most of our kids do not adhere to the majority of them. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss these findings and challenge parents, educators and leaders to assess their own kids. The results may be sobering.
In this episode of the Maven Parent podcast, we delve into the profound cultural shifts surrounding sexuality and their implications on our understanding of gender roles, relationships, and self-identity. Drawing from a riveting talk by John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center, we explore how the sexual revolution has transformed societal norms and challenged traditional beliefs. From the interchangeable roles of men and women to the separation of sex, marriage, and procreation, we discuss the pressing need for a grounded understanding in today's rapidly changing world. Additionally, we touch upon the history of sex education in the church and the challenges faced by the younger generation. Join us as we navigate these complex topics and offer insights on how to approach them with clarity and conviction.
“You do you. Live your truth.” Our secular culture constantly chips away with these self-oriented messages. Of course, ideas have consequences. A relativistic culture that pushes individual autonomy as the highest value will undermine important concepts like obligation, duty, and responsibility. And families with a weakened sense of their obligations to one another will crumble and break apart. How should Christian families think about the nature of their obligations to one another? Do our kids have duties to their parents, or are only parents obligated to their kids? In this episode, Brett & Erin respond to these serious challenges.
This week, Brett and Erin interview Eric Hernandez on his unique approach to evangelism. In this episode, they discuss the importance of asking the right questions and avoiding heated debates when engaging with atheists. Eric shares insights from his book, "The Lazy Approach to Evangelism," where he demonstrates how a few well-placed questions can plant seeds of faith and foster meaningful conversations. Discover practical strategies for effective evangelism and hear inspiring stories from our immersive experiences, including trips to Utah and college campuses, that equip students to defend their faith confidently.
BUY ERIC'S BOOK HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Lazy-Approach-Evangelism-Conversing-Nonbelievers/dp/1948618974/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3P41OMG04LL2C&keywords=lazy+approach+to+evangelism&qid=1694714882&sprefix=lazy+appro%2Caps%2C246&sr=8-1
Families with special needs kids have unique opportunities but they also face unique challenges. How do you navigate life with your child? How do you navigate friends, family and church with a special needs kid? In this episode, Brett and Erin interview Mike and Terri Sherrard about this important topic for families.
How do we deal with kids that don’t want to eat the food we prepare? Should we make them a separate meals? How has American culture shaped our views about eating in unhealthy ways? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss practical steps to help our kids establish good eating habits.
Work is such a good thing. So how do we pass on a biblical view of work to our kids and ACTUALLY get them to do work around our homes and contribute to family life? In this episode, we're diving into effective strategies for instilling a strong work ethic in our children, especially as the fall season brings a perfect opportunity to reset routines and establish new habits.
Children do best with a married mom and dad who are committed to each other. But modern life puts all kinds of pressures on our marriages that undermine and weaken the relationship between husband and wife. So how can couples prioritize their marriage? How can we cultivate strong marriages for the sake of our children? In this episode, Brett and Erin talk discuss marriage with Ryan and Katy Faust. With humor and candor, the Fausts tell their story and offer practical advice to building a lasting marriage.
Ryan and Katy Faust are in local church ministry and founded the organization, Them Before Us, which advocates for the rights of children to their biological mother and father. They have four children and have made different educational choices for their kids throughout the years. On the podcast today, they talk about their decision to send their kids to public school and how they prepare them to navigate challenges that come with that. Ryan and Katy share practical tips and conversations to equip your kids for life in public school.
Recently, the Kunkle family sent their youngest kid to summer camp. When he got home and debriefed Mom and Dad on all of the conversations and encounters, it was a good reminder of the immense social pressure our kids may face, especially when it comes to sexuality and LGBTQ issues. In this episode, Brett and Erin recount the details of that conversation with their son and discuss the powerful influence of the culture in shaping our hearts and minds. In addition, they show how a biblical worldview should set our expectations in such a way that we’re not caught off guard by the sinful social pressure of the culture.
Ever since God rescued Christopher Yuan from a gay lifestyle, he has used his story to point people back to God’s design for sexuality. In this podcast interview, Christopher provides a gospel-centered view of sex and discusses a brand new project to equip families with a biblical view of identity, sex, and relationships.
The son of Chinese immigrants, Christopher Yuan, discovered at a young age that he was different. In this podcast interview, he describes his journey from same-sex attraction into a gay lifestyle and then into God’s redemption of a prodigal son.
Many parents and church leaders over-emphasize our need for practical steps in raising and discipling children and students. However, if we don’t first THINK carefully, we may actually short-circuit the impact of our practical advice or worse, offer practical guidance that isn’t effective at all. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss the role of thinking and reflection in our discipleship of the next generation.
There’s a lot of good advice out there for building strong marriages and families. But how often are we encouraged to serve in God’s Kingdom work to strengthen family relationships? In this episode, Brett & Erin discuss the powerful impact that serving in your local church or in other ministry opportunities can have on marriage and family life. Doing God’s work together can unite families like nothing else!
Culture often portrays fathers negatively. They’re inept. They’re irresponsible. They’re bumbling idiots. As a result, dads can become more passive in their parenting duties. In this podcast, Brett and Erin challenge moms and dads to examine their views on the role of fathers in the home and offer practical advice on how dads can step up and play the important role God designed them to play in the lives of their children.
The culture’s individualistic emphasis on personal fulfillment at the expense of our obligations to others runs counter to the truth of scripture. A marriage in the Kunkle family illustrates how our children can become a huge blessing to those around them. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss their son’s recent wedding and how we need to help our kids understand that their obedience to God doesn’t just help them to flourish but also blesses and encourages the people around them.
Controversy has erupted around the Target Corporation, as their celebration of LGBTQ+ pride has reached new heights. Carrying products like chest binders and tuck-friendly bathing suits has seemed to push consumers too far. So what’s the appropriate response from Christians? Should we boycott Target? Should we refuse to shop at stores that promote immorality? And how could we possibly be consistent in doing so? In this episode, Brett & Erin help Christian families navigate the latest cultural controversy.
Can a boy be “trapped” in a girl’s body or vice versa? Are there any good reasons to detach our biological sex from our gender identity? How does transgender ideology hurt people? How do we best love those who are struggling with gender dysphoria without compromising the truth? In this episode, we present a recent talk that Brett Kunkle gave to a group of fathers at a church in Southern California. It will help you navigate today’s transgender revolution.
Parents today complain of fragmented relationships with their kids. What parents yearn for--and their kids, too--is deep, heart-to-heart connections. But how can parents compete with all the other noise fighting for their kids' attention? In this episode, Brett and Erin interview Greta Eskridge about her new book, Adventuring Together. She discusses how to break free from regular routines and familiar comforts of home to experience new places and adventures--even if those adventures go awry. From simply reading a book together to going on an overnight backpacking trip, Greta suggests activities that provide unique and crucial bonding opportunities.
Links:
BOOK—Adventuring Together: https://www.amazon.com/Adventuring-Together-Connections-Lasting-Memories/dp/0785231366
BOOK—100 Days of Adventure: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400230993
In a technological world, our kids don’t have to go looking for porn…it’s looking for them. So can we even protect our children and students from pornography? If so, how? And how do we demonstrate God’s love, grace, and forgiveness when they stumble? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss the challenging topic of porn with Greta Eskridge.
http://www.gretaeskridge.com/blog/category/Pornography
The word love is over-used. It’s under-valued. It has become a subjective concept. And therefore, love has lost a lot of its significance and meaning. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss whether love is objective or subjective and how God provides us with the rational basis for the existence of objective love. They also discuss a biblical definition of love that goes far beyond merely affirming one another and how true love often requires courage and conviction.
Jonathan Haidt is a social psychologist who has done a lot of work on the impact of technology and social media on our Gen Z kids. He recently wrote a Substack article entitled, “Do the Kids Think They’re Alright?” and was subtitled, “It’s hard to find members of Gen Z who think their phone-based childhood benefitted them.” In this episode, Brett and Erin comb through the article and discuss Gen Z’s perception of themselves, their struggles with mental health and the role that smartphones and social media play.
Links:
Jonathan Haidt’s Substack article, “Do the Kids Think They’re Alright?” — https://jonathanhaidt.substack.com/p/do-the-kids-think-theyre-alright
Jonathan Haidt’s book entitled, The Coddling of the American Mind — https://www.amazon.com/Coddling-American-Mind-Intentions-Generation/dp/0735224919
Teaching formal logic may sound daunting or we may fear that we’ll bore them to death. So, one of the best ways to introduce our kids to logic is through real-life examples. In this episode, Brett and Erin close out their series on critical thinking by going through a number of objections to the Christian faith. They identify and discuss some common logical fallacies in many of the skeptical challenges to Christianity.
Links:
Apologetics Study Bible for Students — https://www.amazon.com/Apologetics-Study-Bible-Students-Trade/dp/1433651173
https://womeninapologetics.com/discerning-cultures-subtle-messages-using-truth-and-logic/
A logical fallacy is a mistake in reasoning. And we need to prepare our kids to recognize faulty reasoning. In this episode, Brett and Erin continue their series on how to teach our kids how to think critically by examining some of the most common logical fallacies. In addition, they provide some very helpful resources.
Links:
The Fallacy Detective — https://www.amazon.com/The-Fallacy-Detective-audiobook/dp/B07XLDZ43R
Learning Logic — https://apologetics-store.biola.edu/products/learning-logic?_pos=1&_sid=d44567469&_ss=r
The Defense Never Rests — https://apologetics-store.biola.edu/products/defense-never-rests-a-workbook-for-budding-apologists?variant=39288147542100
Love Your God With All Your Minds — https://www.amazon.com/Love-Your-God-All-Mind/dp/1617479004
Tactics — https://www.amazon.com/Tactics-10th-Anniversary-Discussing-Convictions/dp/0310101468
How to Think — https://www.amazon.com/How-Think-Critical-Thinking-Version/dp/1938966074
Critical thinking is in short supply. Our kids won’t just “catch it” from an anti-intellectual culture. So parents and leaders must be intentional in teaching our kids how to think critically. In this episode, Brett & Erin discuss one of the most practical tools we can use to teach our kids how to reason well and develop critical thinking skills.
In her 2023 MAVEN Conference talk, Erin Kunkle discusses the undermining of the traditional nuclear family and then explains the biblical case for God’s design for the family. She discusses the implications of God’s design and lays out practical steps we can take to restore the family in a challenging culture. This talk provides the necessary Christian worldview framework for understanding how families can best flourish, even amidst the erosion of this most basic institution within Western Culture.
In his 2023 MAVEN Conference talk, Christopher Yuan shares his testimony of how God’s grace redeemed him and brought him out of a gay lifestyle. Then he carefully explains God’s design for human sexuality by walking through the biblical teaching. This talk provides a clear view of “holy sexuality” and challenges parents, grandparents and leaders to teach a fully gospel-centric approach to sexuality to the next generation.
Is it better for our adult children to marry younger? Or should they delay this significant decision? Do the rates of divorce differ between those who marry young and those who delay marriage? In this episode, Brett and Erin unpack some of the benefits of marrying younger and how the church can support young married couples.
Book: The Ring Makes All the Difference — https://www.amazon.com/Ring-Makes-All-Difference-Consequences/dp/080240216X
Article: "The Religious Marriage Paradox: Younger Marriage, Less Divorce” — https://ifstudies.org/blog/the-religious-marriage-paradox-younger-marriage-less-divorce
People are waiting longer to get married. The new marriage norm for American men and women is to marry around the age of 30. Is this a good trend? What explains these recent marriage trends? And should we encourage our children to wait, as well? Brett and Erin discuss this current cultural trend in marriage, the secularism that seems to motivate it, and contrast it with the biblical view.
Website: Institute for Family Studies — https://ifstudies.org/
Article: “Let’s Have More Teen Pregnancy” — https://www.nationalreview.com/2002/09/lets-have-more-teen-pregnancy-frederica-mathewes-green/
Article: "The Surprising Case for Marrying Young" — https://www.aei.org/op-eds/the-surprising-case-for-marrying-young/
The proposal of new “normal" family structures is causing the culture to rethink the supremacy of the traditional family. Same-sex parents. Families where children are conceived by assisted reproduction. Single-parent homes formed by divorce. Stepfamilies. Cohabiting parents. These new ways of being a family raise a host of questions.Are mothers and fathers essential? Do children do just as well in these new family structures? Is it time to set aside our biases for the traditional family? Are we free to reimagine what a family is? In this episode, Katy Faust concludes this discussion, followed by a panel discussion with Katy, Brett & Erin Kunkle, and John & Sarah Stonestreet.
The proposal of new “normal" family structures are causing the culture to rethink the supremacy of the traditional family. Same-sex parents. Families where children are conceived by assisted reproduction. Single-parent homes formed by divorce. Stepfamilies. Cohabiting parents. These new ways of being a family raise a host of questions.Are mothers and fathers essential? Do children do just as well in these new family structures? Is it time to set aside our biases for the traditional family? Are we free to reimagine what a family is? In this episode, Brett Kunkle and John Stonestreet begin to tackle these tough questions.
How do we teach our kids the Bible effectively? What practical steps can we take with our kids to get them acquainted and interacting with Scripture? In part two of this two-part podcast series, Brett and Erin offer a host of practical ideas that you can implement RIGHT NOW in your home and family life.
Links to Resources Mentioned in the Show:
Questioning the Bible by Jonathan Morrow: https://www.amazon.com/Questioning-Bible-Challenges-Bibles-Authority/dp/0802411789
Scribes & Scripture by John Meade & Peter Gurry: https://www.amazon.com/Scribes-Scripture-Amazing-Story-Bible/dp/1433577895
The Epic Story of the Bible by Greg Gilbert: https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Story-Bible-Read-Understand/dp/143357327X
Playing With Fire by Walt Russell: https://www.amazon.com/Playing-Fire-Bible-Ignites-Change/dp/1576831426
Family Bible Flip Quiz: https://www.amazon.com/Bible-Family-Flip-Quiz/dp/1842361244
International Children’s Bible Handbook: https://www.amazon.com/International-Childrens-Handbook-Lawrence-Richards/dp/0834401339
God’s Timeline—The Big Book of Biblical History: https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Bible-Timeline-Biblical-History/dp/1527105903
The Big Book of Bible Questions: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Bible-Questions/dp/1496435249
Come…Meet Jesus: https://www.comemeetjesus.art/
If the Bible is the authoritative Word of God, it should be the primary “textbook” for our kids. But how can we effectively teach them how to read, study, and handle the Bible? In part one of this two-part podcast series, Brett and Erin discuss how our own view of Scripture is the starting point for teaching our kids the Bible.
Links to Resources Mentioned in the Show:
Questioning the Bible by Jonathan Morrow: https://www.amazon.com/Questioning-Bible-Challenges-Bibles-Authority/dp/0802411789
There’s been a lot of upheaval in education over the last few years. As a result, many families have considered homeschooling their children. However, with little to no experience, parents may have a lot of questions and concerns that hold them back. In this episode, Brett & Erin answer the top ten homeschool questions, in order to help you decide whether or not you can and should homeschool your kids.
We’re raising a generation of “fragile” kids. They have difficulty with the regular struggles of life. They define themselves by their negative experiences. And then they blame others for their struggles. As a result, they’re anxious and depressed. So how do we raise RESILIENT kids, who embrace life with confidence? Brett and Erin interview Dr. Kathy Koch about her new book entitled Resilient Kids.
Our lives are filled with so much clutter. We often absorb the cultural pressure to consume more material possessions. What does scripture say about “treasures on earth?” How do we re-orient our lives to treasure the things of God and His Kingdom over our possessions? In this episode, Brett and Erin survey some key biblical passages and then lay out practical steps to eliminate the material possessions that often clutter our lives.
Book — A Practical Guide to Culture: https://www.amazon.com/Practical-Guide-Culture-Generation-Navigate/dp/0830781242
It’s a new year and many of us are motivated to outline new year’s resolutions, set new goals, and make big plans. But how do we do so successfully? What can help keep us from setting goals this month and giving up on them next month? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss a biblical view of planning and offer some practical steps that can help parents and families submit their goal-setting to the Lord and be effective in making and achieving them.
Book — Same-Sex Marriage: https://www.amazon.com/Same-Sex-Marriage-Thoughtful-Approach-Response/dp/080101834X
As we approach the New Year, it's common for people to set goals and make resolutions. However, it's also important to consider what God's will is for our lives as we make these decisions. In this talk, Brett offers biblical teaching on how to discover and know God's will and encourages listeners to think carefully about what it means to be in God's will as they set goals and make plans for the coming year. This is a valuable resource for anyone looking to live intentionally within God's will in the New Year.
During Christmas, families are inundated with all kinds of holiday messages. Some are true and good, while others are false and undermine our focus on the incarnation of Jesus. For parents, this is a key time to “narrate” those messages for our kids. By doing so, we help them notice and become aware of the distractions. In this episode, Brett and Erin walk through some Christmastime examples. In addition, they also discuss a few of their favorite Christmas books, that help our kids and us to direct our attention to the objective meaning of the season.
Equipping and discipling kids effectively in today’s world requires that we have some basic understanding of the culture they’re growing up in. Recently, Brett spoke at a church in Southern California, examining the current cultural mindset and how it shapes our kids and us. The “expressive individualism” that Brett discusses can have profound consequences for our children and students.
The meaning and significance of Christmas are easily muted or lost amidst the busyness and consumerism of the season. By the time Christmas morning arrives, we’re tired and unfocused and left to feel guilty that maybe we didn’t give Jesus His proper place during the holidays. So how can we slow down the Christmas season and cultivate homes where “Jesus is the reason for the season” is not merely a Christian cliche? In this episode, Brett and Erin offer one powerful idea for your family.
Live your truth. Be who you are. Follow your heart. These cultural mantras may sound positive and even enlightening, but they unhinge us from reality and leave us empty. In this episode, Brett and Erin are joined by Alisa Childers to discuss her new book, Live Your Truth and Other Lies. Alisa identifies some of the most prominent lies of our culture and how we can navigate them with our children and students.
Brett and Erin are joined by special guest Alisa Childers to discuss her book Another Gospel? and the challenges of Progressive Christianity.
How our kids “hang out” nowadays is a lot different than when we were growing up. Instead of going outside to play or spending time face-to-face, they constantly chat over text or play video games online while talking to friends with a headset. But should we let them? If so, how much of their socializing should be mediated through screens and technology? Does socialization through technology have an impact on their mental health? In this episode, Brett and Erin think biblically about what it means to be human and how a Christian worldview informs how approach to socialization via technology, and then offer some practical steps parents can take.
Most parents feel ill-prepared to manage their kids’ use of technology and protect them from a myriad of harms. So we solicited parents’ specific questions on technology for this podcast episode. How do monitor and protect kids who are more tech-savvy than their parents? What are the best parental online tools? What about parents who don’t see eye-to-eye on how to manage technology? What are some good books to help parents get on the same page? Brett and Erin weigh in on these important questions.
What are examples of the kind of manners we should teach our kids? How do manners have an impact on the character development of our kids? What are some practical tips for effectively teaching our kids manners? Brett and Erin get practical in this episode.
Should parents emphasize the teaching of manners? Are manners that big of a deal in the larger scheme of parenting? How does a Christian worldview inform our view on manners? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss the oft-neglected topic of manners.
Today MAVEN joins forces with the Colson Center’s Strong Woman podcast! Brett and Erin sit down with John and Sarah Stonestreet to discuss humanity's origin story and the implications for men, women, and our families. Amid cultural confusion about what a woman is, John and Brett give practical advice for how to navigate transgender ideology for ourselves and our kids.
How can parents inoculate their kids from the false ideas of the surrounding culture? How do we prepare ourselves for the questions and conversations we will inevitably have to have with kids? And what’s the result if we don’t talk about culture with our kids? In this episode, Brett and Erin collect a few parenting tips on navigating culture with our kids from John and Sarah Stonestreet.
In this episode, Brett & Erin take some time to respond to questions from our listeners. They address some follow questions from a recent podcast (“Should We Get Rid of Kids’ Sunday Schoo?”) about implementing ideas for kids’ discipleship in the local church and in a couple’s Bible study. Brett and Erin provide some very practical advice. They also address an objection from a listener regarding what a Christian worldview is and how it relates to the topic of discipline. Keep the questions coming!
God has designed every human being in unique and wonderful ways, and that includes our kids. So how do we discover those things that are special about our children? How can we be intentional in encouraging our kids in their uniqueness? Brett and Erin discuss these questions and offer practical tips.
It seems like parents are bombarded with discouraging news headlines every single day. So how do we navigate a world of bad news? How do we think carefully and Christianly about the latest study or negative news story? Brett and Erin discuss a couple of recent headlines and show how we can think our way through them.
So often our first impulse is to take our parenting questions straight to the internet. We’ll ask Siri or Google answers to our questions. But is finding information online the same as gaining knowledge and wisdom? Are there better, more biblical sources that we should first consult? Brett and Erin discuss how scripture points us to true sources of wisdom for our parenting journey.
Is it a real possibility that your kids will have a dramatic NEGATIVE impact on your Christian faith? Are you tempted to compromise God’s moral standards because your kids are? Are your kids catechizing you? Brett and Erin discuss how our kids’ struggles with God can slowly erode the faith of the adults who love them.
Scott Klusendorf is one of the top pro-life apologists in the nation. Brett & Erin sit down with Scott to discuss his personal story, how he got into pro-life work, the implications of the recent Supreme Court decision regarding Roe v. Wade and how to equip the next generation to defend the life of the unborn.
What changes can we make in our local churches, to more effectively teach and train our children and youth? Brett & Erin share a number of practical ideas about how we can do church with our kids and raise expectations for their discipleship.
Is it good that our churches are largely age-segregated? Does our modern way of doing church actually hinder the discipleship of our kids? Brett & Erin share some key insights from their involvement in a church plant in Southern California, that will challenge current thinking about how we do church with our kids.
How do we teach our kids about an abstract idea like the nature of truth? How do we instill in them a commitment to the truth? Brett and Erin outline very practical steps parents can take to train their kids in truth.
Our kids are growing up in a culture that undermines their confidence in knowing truth and reality. “Live your own truth” and “that’s true for you but not for me” are the mantras of the day. How do we teach our kids truth and restore their confidence that we can know God’s truth? Brett and Erin discuss this ubiquitous parenting challenge and offer ways to think carefully about the nature of truth.
For Christians, reading is vital. God has primarily spoken to us through the written word, in His Holy Word. Therefore, we must cultivate a LOVE for reading in our kids, if we want to equip them with an absolutely essential tool for their spiritual growth. But how can we get our kids to read? How do we help them fall in love with reading? In this podcast episode, Brett and Erin interview Carole Joy Seid. Carole offers practical advice on getting our kids to fall in love with reading.
Many parenting experts and psychologists will argue that children, particularly young kids, have no “impulse control.” What does this mean? What are the implications for discipline and parenting? And how do current ideas about impulse control fit with a biblical view of children, discipline and parenting? Brett and Erin tackle these questions in this episode.
If you asked most Christian parents, church history is probably not at the top of the list of topics we think we NEED to teach our kids about. However, if we don’t teach them about this vital subject, we can seriously handicap their faith. In this episode, Brett and Erin list the reasons WHY we should teach church history to our kids and then provide practical advice on HOW to teach it effectively.
Show notes: https://linktr.ee/mavenpodcast70
In this episode, Brett and Erin respond to a popular pastors tweet about the indoctrination of kids in school. They discuss whether or not parents should actually be concerned and then evaluate four recommendations the pastor offers parents about the discipleship of our kids.
School is out and summer is in full swing. However, having the kids home more or losing the structure of the school-year calendar, can present challenges for parents. Rather than feeling stuck “entertaining” your kids or letting screens take over, parents who are intentional can make summer a very productive time. How? Brett and Erin discuss one simple tool to take control of your kids’ summer.
What is a worldview and why does it even matter? These questions are absolutely vital to answer, as we train up our kids in the Christian faith. Recently, Brett spoke on this topic at the Navigate Worldview Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. In this talk, he discusses how everyone has a worldview but most people have never thought carefully about why they believe what they believe. Ironically, one’s worldview has profound consequences for all of life. Brett then takes a quick look at the prominent worldviews in our culture and lays out the very practical implications of worldview for how we live each and every day.
In the second half of their parent talk at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio in April 2022, Brett and Erin continue to dispel the cultural lies about gender and then begin to paint a biblical picture of God’s design for gender.
How does our culture most powerfully shape us? By presenting to us what is, and therefore should be, normal. And what is the culture presenting to our young people as the norm regarding sex and gender? In this talk given to the parents at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio in April 2022, Brett and Erin walk through a multitude of examples from the culture. Then they provide some clear thinking to help parents navigate these issues in a confused culture.
Is it legitimate to legislate our moral views on abortion? Are pro-lifers inconsistent because they only care about the unborn and not the already-born? Brett & Erin bring some clear thinking to help answer these common objections to the pro-life position.
With the leak of the Supreme Court’s draft opinion on Roe v. Wade this week, abortion is THE hot topic. So, should we take this opportunity to talk to our kids about this explosive issue? In this episode, Brett & Erin discuss why and how to talk to your kids about abortion.
Parents struggle with how much to protect their kids from the difficulties of life. When it comes to the reality of death, are our kids ready to confront the pain and suffering that accompanies it? Should we take them to a funeral? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss a biblical worldview perspective on life and death and how it should inform our parenting on this tough issue.
Recently, Disney has been in the news for its LGBTQ activism. Disney executives have said they want to incorporate more LGBTQ characters into their shows and movies. So what’s a parent to do? Should Christian parents let their kids watch Disney? In this episode, Brett and Erin work through this issue thoughtfully, while also providing practical steps for parents.
Time is fundamental to life. We live in time. We organize our lives according to it. We can’t escape time. And yet, many of us have never thought about how our Christian faith relates to time. In this episode, Brett and Erin talk about the Christian Calendar and how it is a practical tool to bring God’s Story to the center of our lives and organize our lives around Him, rather than ourselves.
SHOW NOTES:
The Story … As Told Through the Christian Calendar https://vimeo.com/79923336
9 Things You Should Know About the Christian Calendar https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/9-things-know-christian-calendar/
Recently, Brett spoke to parents at Arbor Road Church in Southern California. During the Q & A, there were a lot of questions regarding kids and technology, so Brett and Erin decided to tackle them in this episode.
There's a lot of modern parenting advice out there that says we should let kids "feel what they feel." By allowing them to display any and all emotions, even by way of tantrum, we are allegedly giving them a safe place for those feelings. But how does this modern advice stack up with the ancient wisdom of Scripture? Should parents tolerate tantrums or is there a better way? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss this challenging topic for parents.
In our culture, family dysfunction and brokenness is pervasive. For many, broken families are simply the new normal. As such, Christians cannot overlook the powerful impact a healthy and harmonious home will have on those around us. So how can we cultivate a family life that brings stability, strength, peace and harmony? This session will provide practical guidance on raising a family in the midst of a culture where families are falling apart and show how a healthy home can be a bright light in a dark culture.
We know we should pray as parents, but WHY do we pray? What does the very act of praying mean? Brett & Erin recently joined the Colson Center for a brief discussion on why prayer is a significant and powerful part of parenting.
Ideas have consequences...and bad ideas have victims. When it comes to Transgender ideology, the victims are usually children and students. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss some of the consequences of affirming the culture’s view of gender identity and what practical steps parents can take to help their kids navigate this new reality.
Transgender ideology says that one’s gender is determined solely by an individual’s thoughts or feelings about oneself. The result? Gender can be anything you make it. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss how, ironically, this view ends up doing away with any meaningful sense of gender altogether.
The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: https://smile.amazon.com/Rise-Triumph-Modern-Self-Individualism/dp/1433556332/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1646213776&sr=8-1
When Harry Became Sally: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-harry-became-sally-ryan-anderson/1125792437?ean=9781594039614
Women’s collegiate swimming has erupted in controversy, as Lia Thomas, a trans woman who competes on the Penn St. women’s swim team breaks records and dominates competition. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss these recent events and how Christian parents should think about the issues surrounding gender identity and how we can help our kids navigate transgender ideology.
https://bariweiss.substack.com/p/watching-lia-thomas-win?utm_source=url
The Bible is filled with miracle accounts so why don’t Christians talk much about the miraculous? Do we really believe that miracles are possible, even probable? How do miracle stories strengthen our faith in God? Brett and Erin interview Dr. J.P. Moreland about his new book, A Simple Guide to Experience Miracles: Instruction and Inspiration for Living Supernaturally in Christ.
Get JP's book on Miracles: https://smile.amazon.com/Simple-Guide-Experience-Miracles-Supernaturally/dp/0310124190/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1645139980&sr=8-1
Little Lights books: https://smile.amazon.com/Little-Lights-Box-Set-1/dp/1781918015/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2YELPYSUZBX1L&keywords=little+lights+book&qid=1645140170&sprefix=little+lights+book%2Caps%2C197&sr=8-2
The last two years have been difficult and anxiety and depression have hit epidemic levels in both parents and our kids. How do can we navigate anxiety successfully? In this episode, Brett and Erin interview Dr. J.P. Moreland about his book, Finding Quiet: My Story of Overcoming Anxiety and the Practices That Brought Peace.
Get JP's book: https://smile.amazon.com/Finding-Quiet-Overcoming-Anxiety-Practices/dp/031059720X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1644487311&sr=1-2
In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss their journey into homeschooling. After having kids in both public and private schools, what reasons led them to pursue the homeschool option? And how did they think about objections to homeschooling, like socialization or having our kids be “salt and light” in the public system? Brett and Erin discuss all of this and more in this podcast episode.
We’re changing things up for this episode of the MAVEN Parent podcast! Brett and Erin ask each other some unrehearsed and unanticipated parenting questions. Their answers are very personal and reveal some parental wisdom borne out of struggle.
There have been recent attacks on the idea that parents have certain rights and authority over their own kids. For example, when it comes to education, who has the right to decide what our kids will learn? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss this modern challenge to parental authority.
There have been recent attacks on the idea that parents have certain rights and authority over their own kids. For example, when it comes to education, who has the right to decide what our kids will learn? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss this modern challenge to parental authority.
In a world of plenty, where consumerism and materialism dominate so much of our lives, how do we raise kids who are thankful and generous? How do help them cultivate gratitude in their lives? Brett and Erin discuss practical ideas to help raise grateful kids in an entitled world.
Are we as intentional as we should be on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, in drawing our kids attention to Christ? In this episode Brett and Erin offer more practical ideas on how to keep Jesus front and center during the holidays.
Could we possibly ruin Christmas for our kids by the way we give gifts? Given the true meaning of the Christmas holiday--a celebration of the Incarnation--then the answer is yes. In this episode, Brett and Erin help guide us to be intentional in the giving of presents and provide some very practical ideas.
SHOW NOTES:
Three Wise Kings https://smile.amazon.com/Story-Three-Wise-Kings/dp/1534466525/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1FPS5ELQURSCA&keywords=three+wise+kings+depaola&qid=1639562031&sprefix=three+wise+kings%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-1
This Is Stable: https://smile.amazon.com/This-Stable-Cynthia-Cotten/dp/0312384211/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=this+is+the+stable&qid=1639562709&s=books&sr=1-1
Holly & Ivy: https://smile.amazon.com/Story-Holly-Ivy-Rumer-Godden/dp/0670062197/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1LUC0SXPDEQX7&keywords=the+story+of+holly+and+ivy&qid=1639562726&s=books&sprefix=the+story+of+holly%2Cstripbooks%2C217&sr=1-1
A Christmas Carol: https://smile.amazon.com/Christmas-Carol-Facsimile-Original-Color/dp/1645940381/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=christmas+carol&qid=1639562636&s=books&sr=1-4
The Best Christmas Pagent Ever: https://smile.amazon.com/Best-Christmas-Pageant-Ever/dp/0064402754/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XCG8CQIJG2TX&keywords=the+best+christmas+pageant+ever&qid=1639562665&s=books&sprefix=the+best+car%2Cstripbooks%2C224&sr=1-1
The Family Under The Bridge: https://smile.amazon.com/Family-Bridge-Natalie-Savage-Carlson/dp/0064402509/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3DVRG7YZXHLXS&keywords=the+family+under+the+bridge&qid=1639562685&s=books&sprefix=the+family+under%2Cstripbooks%2C219&sr=1-1
The Man Who Invented Christmas: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B077MFZMB3/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r
If justification and evidence strengthen our beliefs and help us move from mere belief to knowledge, then how and what should we teach our kids about the evidence for God’s existence? Brett & Erin walk though some practical ways we can teach our children about the powerful evidence for God’s existence.
What does it mean to “believe” something? Are you satisfied with the mere fact that your kids believe in God? Brett & Erin show why merely believing something isn’t enough, explain three important aspects of belief and how we ultimately want to help our kids move from simply BELIEVING in God to KNOWING that God is real.
Our lives are filled with busyness and activity. Work, school, church, sports, music lessons, meetings, dinners, etc. In this episode, Brett & Erin offer a simple and practical tool that they’ve been using for more than 20 years, to manage the family schedule.
Talking back. Whining. Dirty looks. Rolling the eyes. Rudeness. Are bad attitudes something parents just need to tolerate from their kids? Brett and Erin help us think carefully about this issue and offer practical advice on how to handle it.
Theology, the study of God, is the most significant area of knowledge that we can pass on to the next generation. But how can we effectively teach our kids theology? Brett & Erin outline six practical ways to pass on the knowledge of God to our children and youth.
How should Christians THINK about Halloween? Is it a pagan holiday that we should avoid? Or is it something that Christians can participate in and even redeem? Brett & Erin discuss HOW to think about this holiday.
Inspiring Philosophy’s video on the history of halloween: Inspiring Philosophy’s link to the video on the history of halloween: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fu-5BmAzbrU
Walt Russell’s study of “the appearance of evil” in 1 Thessalonians 5:22: https://www.biola.edu/blogs/good-book-blog/2011/avoid-every-appearance-of-evil-toppling-a-faulty-moral-pillar
What does the latest research show about the beliefs and behavior of Gen Z? Gen Z expert Jonathan Morrow joins Brett & Erin for a discussion on how to reach and disciple today’s children and youth.
What does the Bible teach about God and man? What are the implications of the biblical teaching for a Christian view of education? And is modern education compatible with the biblical view? In this episode, Brett and Erin walk us through Scripture and then challenge us to re-evaluate our kid’s education.
Are your views on education something you’ve come to through careful and biblical reflection? Or are they simply absorbed from the surrounding culture? Before you decide on public, private or home education, there’s a prior question that must be answered. In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss the question every Christian parent needs to answer about their kid’s schooling.
If parents aren’t fully awake yet, it’s time to wake up! Brett and Erin look at what’s happening in some of our public schools around the country, where kids’ gender transitions are being hidden from parents. What are the implications of such actions for the education of our kids? How must parents and churches rethink the education of the next generation?
Abigail Shrier Article:https://abigailshrier.substack.com/p/should-public-schools-be-allowed https://abigailshrier.substack.com/p/should-public-schools-be-allowed
Irreversible Damage: https://smile.amazon.com/Irreversible-Damage-Transgender-Seducing-Daughters/dp/168451228X/
Our children are being socialized into using people’s “preferred” pronouns. Is this really a big deal? Are pronouns really that important? Is it something we should resist? Brett & Erin offer some clear thinking on this issue.
When Harry Became Sally: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-harry-became-sally-ryan-anderson/1125792437
Irreversible Damage: https://smile.amazon.com/Irreversible-Damage-Transgender-Seducing-Daughters/dp/168451228X/
Let’s face it, life is EASY in our culture. So how can we allow our kids to struggle and deal with difficulties in a culture that is so pleasure-oriented? Brett and Erin lay out a host of very practical steps that will help parents cultivate resilient kids who aren’t strangers to adversity AND who understand God’s redemptive ways amidst pain and struggle.
Helicopter parents have morphed into Lawnmower parents, attempting to remove every obstacle and barrier in their kids’ lives. But even well-intentioned parents will prevent their kids from maturing in important ways if they don’t let them struggle. Brett & Erin discuss a biblical view of difficulty and struggle.
Deuteronomy 6:7 tells us to “Impress [God’s laws] on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” But how can we do this practically in our 21st century world? Brett and Erin discuss the concept of narration and how it can be an effective tool in passing on God’s truth to the next generation.
Blended families are reality for most modern families. How do we should we think about blended families biblically and how do we navigate the unique challenges they bring? Brett & Erin discuss insights from the Christian worldview that help us to think properly and realistically about blended families AND offer practical help.
Focus on the family resource: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/resources-fostering-or-adopting-children-from-difficult-backgrounds/
In an increasingly polarized and hostile public square, can Christians disagree with others WITH civility and grace? How do we keep our kids from being socialized by the outrage-machine that is social media? Brett and Erin lay out a biblical view and practical steps to help us lead our families in God-honoring disagreement.
We live in an increasingly secular culture and our kids are immersed in it, as well. So, it’s inevitable that they will be challenged by the false world views of the culture. How do we prepare them to engage with false ideas AND strengthen their faith in Christ at the same time? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss a strategy to inoculate our kids rather than isolate them from false views of the culture.
Is it detrimental to force our kids to attend church even when they don’t want to? What should parents look for when their kids start complaining about church? Does our kid’s reluctance reveal our own unhealthy views or habits when it comes to the local church? In this episode, Brett and Erin unpack this difficult topic.
How do we deal with kids that don’t want to eat the food we prepare? Should we make them a separate meals? How has American culture shaped our views about eating in unhealthy ways? In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss practical steps to help our kids establish good eating habits.
How can parents overcome their differences and become unified partners in the discipline of their children? Brett and Erin offer very practical steps to help your spouse and you come together as a team.
The older years. How should we discipline our kids when they move into their teen years? How should we shift what we do to respect their growing independence and yet still guide them with wisdom? Brett and Erin tackle the challenges of disciplining our teenagers.
The middle years. How do we begin to transition into giving our children the reasons why we have the limits and rules that we have? How can we continue to discipline well as they grow towards their teen years? Brett and Erin give practical advise for navigating discipline through the preteen years.
In this episode, Brett and Erin continue laying out very practical steps on how to discipline children during the younger years. These steps will lay a foundation for discipline that carry into the later stages, as well.
The past year has made one thing very clear—we live in a culture full of chaos and confusion. And helping our children and students navigate this chaotic culture is more challenging than ever. The confusion abounds. Can boys be girls and girls be boys? Deep down are we all racists? Is the Bible sexist? Is Christianity anti-science? How can a loving God allow suffering? Is our true identity our sexual identity? Does the Christian faith need to change to survive? In this episode, Brett goes over how we can start to teach our kids the answers to these tough questions.
The past year has made one thing very clear—we live in a culture full of chaos and confusion. And helping our children and students navigate this chaotic culture is more challenging than ever. The confusion abounds. Can boys be girls and girls be boys? Deep down are we all racists? Is the Bible sexist? Is Christianity anti-science? How can a loving God allow suffering? Is our true identity our sexual identity? Does the Christian faith need to change to survive? In this episode, Brett goes over how we can start to teach our kids the answers to these tough questions.
Navigating discipline with our children can be rough, so Brett & Erin begin with some challenge and encouragement in this episode. In addition, they begin to lay out a three-stage framework for how to discipline kids at different ages, starting with the younger years.
If discipline is defined as “training that corrects,” then it’s a lot more than punishing our kids. In this episode, Brett and Erin lay out four steps that prevent such reductionistic thinking about discipline and instead, help to lay a healthy foundation.
When we discipline our kids well, we not only teach them obedience to God’s moral laws but we also instill in them habits that shape their desires and loves. Yes, we can help them not only do what is good but also love what is good! In this episode, Brett and Erin discuss five life-long and life-changing habits brought about by good discipline.
When it comes to the discipline of children, we CAN’T start with the how-tos. We must makes sense of WHY we should discipline in the first place. In this episode, Brett and Erin show how the Christian worldview connects discipline back to God’s existence and character, providing us with the necessary framework that makes sense of the discipline of our kids.
Our culture socializes us to place more value on our kid’s achievements than on their character. This is revealed by what things--academics, sports, extra-curricular activities--take priority in our family life. And if we go along with the culture, it will ultimately undermine our discipline.
How does our Christian worldview guide us in the discipline of our kids? Is discipline ineffective and outdated in raising today’s kids? Where do we start when thinking about discipline? In this episode, Brett & Erin begin to lay down a biblical foundation for disciplining children.
How do we develop a theology of gender? How do we create homes where healthy gender distinctions are modeled and affirmed? Brett and Erin provide practical steps that families can take with their kids.
Are men and women different? If so, does that mean one is inferior to the other? And what does it even mean to be male or female? Brett and Erin unpack how human design is vital for understanding human functioning and flourishing and how God has uniquely designed men and women.
Can boys be girls and girls be boys? Is gender identity merely a matter of feelings? In this episode, Brett and Erin help untangle us from the lie that we can determine our own gender and discuss how our biological sex fits with our gender identity, so we can help our kids navigate this cultural challenge.
Brett & Erin Kunkle discuss five very practical steps you can take with your kids RIGHT NOW, to help your kids manage and navigate the challenges of technology...and help them fight screen addiction!
Technology is powerful AND technology is not neutral. That means it has the power to shape our hearts and minds JUST by our very use of it. As parents, we must THINK carefully about the nature of technology if we want to help our kids successfully navigate a world of screens.
The Christian worldview provides us with a thoughtful and comprehensive response to the COVID-19 (or Coronavirus) pandemic. Therefore, Christian parents must think biblically about the myriad of issues our society now faces due to the pandemic and lockdown, in order to help our kids navigate these unprecedented times.
The average American family is overly busy, over extended and we all feel the crunch. In a fast-paced culture, we must be intentional to slow life down and block out distractions. Family meals can be that time. In this session, we’ll discuss habits you can cultivate in your home that will make meals a significant time of connection with your kids.
Parents must create a safe place in their homes, for kids to wrestle with doubt and ask their tough questions about Christianity. In fact, doubt can be a GREAT tool to help build strong and confident kids.
Work is such a good thing. So how do we pass on a biblical view of work to our kids and ACTUALLY get them do work around our homes and contribute to family life?
Parents need tools, especially tools that will help them teach their kids about God. Brett and Erin Kunkle discuss a very practical tool they've implemented in their family, called "Morning Time" (thanks to Cindy Rollins for this great idea!), that serves as an important way the Kunkle parents disciple and teach their four kids (that are still at home).
What should Christian parents desire ABOVE ALL ELSE for their kids? What is the MAIN parenting GOAL for Christian parents? Brett & Erin Kunkle discuss how our parenting must start with the end in mind AND what that end goal should be for followers of Jesus Christ.
What happens when a youth pastor goes on a blind date with a single mom? You get the beginnings of the Kunkle Family! Hear how Brett & Erin met, how they started their parenting journey and how God has worked through all of it.