In this episode of Made For More, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope is joined by Arlene Pellicane—speaker, host of the Happy Home podcast, and author of several books, including Screen Kids (co-authored with Dr. Gary Chapman). Arlene brings valuable insight into managing screen time for children in today’s technology-saturated world, shedding light on the common challenges parents face as they help their kids develop a healthy relationship with technology.

You'll walk away with practical strategies for creating a balanced family tech plan—and maybe even feel inspired to take a closer look at your own habits. We believe this episode will be powerful, helpful, and maybe even a little convicting—but the benefits will be well worth the effort.

Arlene’s Recommended Resources

Screen Kids: 5 Relational Skills Every Child Needs in a Tech-Driven World

By: Dr. Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane

The Happy Home Podcast - Hosted by Arlene

Arlene’s Website: arlenepelicane.com

Screen Kids Course: https://www.happyhomeuniversity.com/course

In this episode of the Made for More Podcast, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope are joined by Ryan Wood, Superintendent of Immanuel Schools, to discuss the different stages of parenting and the importance of adapting parenting styles as children grow. They explore the value of allowing children to experience failure as a learning opportunity, the ethos of Christian parenting, and the impact of being engaged in a church community. Ryan shares incredible wisdom from his own experiences as a parent that is sure to bless and encourage you—no matter what stage of parenting you are in.

Ryan’s Points:

1. Talk at the dinner table.

2. Do not overcommit your time outside of the home.

3. Make church involvement a priority.

4. Focus on modeling healthy relationships to your kids.

5. Wherever you are, have conversations.

6. You have to slow down- live a slower pace of life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Stages

03:17 Navigating the Stages of Parenting

11:10 The Importance of Allowing Failure

15:46 The Purpose of Christian Parenting

19:26 Involvement in Church and Community

22:11 Supporting Each Other as Parents

28:25 Final Thoughts on Parenting

In this episode, Roger Erdvig and Keith McCurdy dive into what it means to raise sturdy kids—children who are emotionally strong and equipped to handle life’s challenges. They explore the value of struggle in parenting, the ultimate goal of maturity, and practical ways to cultivate a strong family identity. The conversation also examines the influence of technology and extracurricular activities on child development, emphasizing the critical role parents play as gatekeepers in their children's lives. We hope this conversation encourages and equips you on your parenting journey, reminding you that your children are Made For More.

Chapters:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Raising Sturdy Kids

01:01 The Concept of Sturdy Kids

05:33 The Role of Parents in Preparing Kids

06:57 Historical Perspectives on Parenting

10:18 The Impact of Humanism on Parenting

15:04 The Importance of Struggle in Growth

22:45 Practical Steps for Parents

23:13 Establishing Family Identity

26:02 Encouraging Responsibility in Children

31:23 Navigating Technology and Extracurriculars

Recommended Resource:

Keith’s 4 Points

#1 - Establish A Strong Family Identity

#2 - Do Less For Your Kids And Require More From Your Kids - "Ownership of Responsibility before Freedom and Privilege"

#3 - Use The Principle Of Cause And Effect As A Basic Learning Tool

#4 - Work Hard To Limit The Key Interrupters To Healthy Growth In Children- Technology and Extracurriculars