

Focus on Parenting Podcast
Focus on the Family
Christian mom or dad, could you use some encouragement and support? Put your ear buds in for this Christian parenting podcast and get practical, faith-based inspiration through all stages of parenting — raising toddlers, navigating the school-age years, preparing for puberty, and seeing your teen soar with confidence. Hosted by Danny Huerta, in every 8 to 15 minute episode, you’ll hear parenting experts share Biblical truths, effective parenting techniques, and useful resources that will help you feel equipped as a mom or dad in today’s culture.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 2, 2025 • 11min
Mountain or a Molehill?
When you feel frustrated with your kids, it's important to not overreact. Jim Daly and Justin Earley discuss how to discern whether a present frustration is really important or not. Then, John and Danny share how including other people in your kids' lives goes a long way in helping them develop into healthy people. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Habits of the Household for your donation of any amount! Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment Crafting Spiritual Habits in Your Family 50 Questions to Ask Your Kids at the Dinner Table Dinner: Nourish Your Family as a Family Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Parenting Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 30, 2025 • 15min
Your Dinner Table is Your Mission Field
Dinner time with kids can spark meaningful conversations and foster family bonds. John shares nostalgic childhood memories, while Danny discusses making mealtime a sacred routine. Justin emphasizes the importance of intentional habits, showcasing how to create positive family traditions. He also delves into the balance of chaos and observation at the table. Adaptability is highlighted as a key parenting trait, ensuring that dinner traditions evolve as kids grow. Embrace the messiness of mealtime, and let curiosity guide your interactions!

Sep 25, 2025 • 13min
Phones vs. Real Relationships
The hosts dive into how smartphones hijack our attention, making real-life connections harder. They discuss the irony of highly connected teens feeling lonely and how online interactions often lack depth. Practical tips emerge, like serving others to combat self-focus and foster confidence. Encouraging kids to opt for live conversation over texting and to engage in community service is highlighted. The importance of curiosity and empathy in relationships wraps up their insights, promoting healthier tech habits for families.

Sep 23, 2025 • 12min
A Better Replacement for Screens
How do we find a way to break away from the constant use of screens? John and Danny cover how depression and anxiety have gone up since smart phones became the norm. Then, Jim Daly talks with Arlene Pellicane about training your child to find pleasure outside of social media and screens. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Screen Kids You for your donation of any amount! Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment How Your Family Can Manage Technology Well Your Teens Need You, Not More Screen Time Phone Contract Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Parenting Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 18, 2025 • 12min
Planned Emancipation Over Control
One of the worst decisions you can make with your teens is trying to control them. Jessica Pfeiffer and Dr. Ken Wilgus talk to Jim Daly on why trying to sway all of your teen's choices is a recipe for disaster. Also, John asks Danny how parents can respond well if their teen was given some freedom, but they violated that privilege. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Feeding the Mouth that Bites You for your donation of any amount! Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment Common Teen Issues That Drive Parents Crazy Learn About Our Age and Stage e-Newsletter Contact our Counseling Team Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Parenting Podcast, please give us your feedback.

7 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 11min
When Will it Be Up to Me?
As teens yearn for independence, parents often face pushback and boundary challenges. John shares calm responses to teenage outbursts, while Danny delves into why adolescents assert their opinions. Dr. Ken Wilgus discusses the core struggle between control and growth, highlighting how parents can help teens practice decision-making. Conversations take center stage as a way to guide young minds toward adulthood. Tune in for insightful tips and relatable stories on navigating this pivotal stage of parenting.

7 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 10min
Learning from Your Mistakes
Every parent stumbles, but admitting mistakes can lead to growth. Candid discussions reveal how failures can become powerful teaching moments. Emphasizing emotional intelligence, the talk encourages parents to validate their children's feelings. Insights into embracing sensitivity remind us that imperfections are part of the journey. Plus, resources like the 'Practice Makes Parent' podcast and 'Inconvenient Parenting' offer guidance for those navigating the complexities of raising emotionally aware kids.

9 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 11min
The Need for Intentionality & Wisdom
This discussion delves into the importance of intentionality in parenting, warning against the distractions that can hinder meaningful connections. Personal anecdotes highlight the cultivation of virtues like patience and compassion. The speakers share insights on using God's wisdom to navigate parenting challenges, including how to foster self-regulation in children. They also introduce a resource aimed at deepening family engagement with scripture, emphasizing quality time and truth-seeking behaviors to strengthen relationships.

Sep 4, 2025 • 13min
Forming New Habits and When Your Kid is Anxious
Creating new family habits can be a challenge, but shared motivation is key to success. The discussion includes comforting children through anxiety and the importance of open conversations about feelings. Morning routines are highlighted as a solid foundation for daily life, while prioritizing spiritual practices can nurture resilience. Listeners learn how to empower their kids to manage emotions and fears, all while maintaining a strong family faith.

Sep 2, 2025 • 11min
Bedtime Liturgy & New Habits
What if the moment you put your kids to bed is a wonderful chance to point them to God? Justin Earley talks with Jim Daly about how he implemented something called a "Bedtime Liturgy," with his sons. Plus, Danny Huerta and John Fuller will encourage you to check and see if your kids are really comprehending the love of Jesus. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Habits of the Household for your donation of any amount! Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment Creating Spiritual Habits in Your Family Bedtime Routines That Work Contact our Counseling Team Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Parenting Podcast, please give us your feedback.