Do you have a tween? This episode is for YOU! Jonathan is one of my very favorite dads on the planet. He’s a pastor, husband, dad of one young adult, 3 teens and a one year old! You’ve heard him on Pardon The Mess before with his beautiful wife Peta Pitts as they have navigated loss together. Alena Pitts is Jonathan’s oldest daughter and someone I admire and respect so much. This father-daughter conversation is incredibly rich and entertaining.

Today’s episode is a very practical one. Alena and Jonathan offer 3 ways we can help our tweens thrive. Alena offers a unique perspective as the oldest child in the family. She looks back at what she appreciated most. Jonathan brings perspective of raising his four daughters while also managing a ministry specifically for tween girls.

My favorite part is towards the end when Jonathan encourages us to lay down all the pressures and stuff that is fleeting. How we can continue to prioritize the relationship with our kids over all the things that are fleeting.

In this episode we chat about:

• Practical ways to help your teens thrive
• Parenting introverted kids vs extroverted
• Ways to own your role as a parent in their spiritual development

Enjoy!

Courtney

(00:00) Navigating Newlywed Life

(03:01) The Joys of Parenting

(06:19) The Importance of Family Devotions

(09:48) Supporting Tweens in Community

(14:43) Building Connections Through Shared Stories

(18:16) The Role of Parents in Child Development

(20:10) Instilling Truth and Sound Doctrine

(25:48) The Importance of Fun and Lightheartedness

(32:19) Encouragement for Stressed Parents

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Pardon The Mess

Courtney DeFeo

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Resources from today’s show:

Connect with Alena

Connect with Jonathan

For Girls Like You - magazine and resources for tween girls

Jonathan and Peta Pitts episode

Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide

Enjoy 20% off the For girls Like You Magazine subscription by using code: pardonthemess.

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