These two episodes with Dr. David and Amanda Erickson are packed with practical ideas for the little years. Truthfully, it can be overwhelming to determine how to discipline, redirect, manage chaos while not breaking the spirit of your child. I see a cultural shift from one extreme (punishing behavior out of kids and using fear) to another extreme - letting the kids run the house with no rules.

This couple has an approach that I really believe in - they combine child development with scriptural truth. I wish I had had them when my kids were younger. They focus on “what to do” vs “what not to do” which puts an upfront emphasis on your family’s values and expectations.

My favorite part is when they talk about how to take a biblical value like “trustworthiness” and live it out in the home. As you listen to this episode, I am praying you feel equipped and not discouraged. Their way isn’t a prescribed formula - it’s a parenting philosophy that has many benefits and ideas attached to it.

When my kids were little, it was so chaotic at times and I would get so overwhelmed at my lack of parenting principles and felt like I kept messing it up. You are not alone. Don’t give up! This work and effort will pay off.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Cultural shifts in parenting styles
• How to build trust and honesty in parenting
• How to redirect behavior and manage chaos
• Ideas for discipline and consequences

Enjoy!

Courtney

Part 1

(03:03) Parenting Principles and Practical Application

(05:55) Cultural Shifts in Parenting Styles

(09:04) The Importance of Early Emotional Development

(11:53) Building Trust and Honesty in Parenting

(15:11) Consequences and Discipline Strategies

(17:53) Redirecting Behavior and Managing Chaos

Part 2

(2:30) Understanding the Impact of Fear on Parenting

(6:33) The Importance of Separation in Conflict Resolution

(9:10) Timeouts: Purposeful or Punitive?

(12:10) Channeling Physical Energy in Children

(16:20) Teaching Control Over Emotions and Actions 5

(22:00) The Role of Respect in Parenting 2

(23:48) Assuming the Best: Navigating Disrespect 3

(27:20) Affirming Positive Behavior in Children 4

Connect with Pardon The Mess:

Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess

Courtney DeFeo

Resources from today’s show:

The Flourishing Family - new book

Identity Simplified

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org