Episodes

Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James answer your questions. It's an episode of Practice Makes Parent shaped by our community—addressing real questions, exploring fresh perspectives, and continuing the dialogue together! If you’ve ever wondered how your voice fits into the show, this episode is proof that it does. And because he's silly, Dr. Danny tells Dad Jokes in between your questions about aggressive toddlers, separation anxiety, showering with children, grandparents disciplining, and enco...

This episode of Practice Makes Parent will give you and your family a fresh take on the Lenten season. Don't just fast chocolate or screen time this year. Decrease life's unnecessary details and increase your relationship with the Lord so you can live in awe of Christ's resurrection! Danny and Rebecca speak with Dr. Alicia Britt Chole about 40 Days of Decrease, a guide for those hungering for a fresh Lenten/Easter experience. We also take a listener question about the gentile parenting movement....

It's all about the joys and challenges of raising preteen and teenage daughters on this edition of Practice Makes Parent. Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James emphasize the importance of building strong relationships, identity in Christ, and practical parenting techniques with Kari Kampakis. She shares insights from her experiences as a mother, highlighting the need for connection over correction and the importance of perseverance, integrity, and discernment. The conversation also touches on t...

Don't be nervous moms and dads! We're talking about how to discuss sexuality with your kids. Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James talk with Dr. Jim Burns, an expert in Christian parenting and sexuality. He shares how to have the ongoing conversations, the peer pressure influence, and emotional maturity. We also answer a listener question on how to handle emotional and moody preteen behavior without shaming the child. A Student's Guide to Sexual Integrity: God's Plan for Sex and Your Body Lau...

The episode emphasizes authenticity, connections, and the importance of self-compassion in the parenting journey. Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James explore the 'comparison trap' and how it impacts parents, with Kate Strickler, author of 'I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen.' They discuss the negative effects of constantly comparing oneself to others, the importance of contentment, and practical steps to shift mindsets towards gratitude. They also address how these issues manifest in family l...

Get ready for a strong episode of Practice Makes Parent. We're going to discuss theology and its importance in both religious education and practical life application. Our guests are Sam Luce and Hunter Williams authors of the book, 'How to Teach Kids Theology: Deep Truths for Growing Faith.' They discuss the lack of theological training resources for children's pastors, and techniques for teaching complex concepts like the Trinity to children. They also highlight the importance of catechisms an...

In this episode of Practice Makes Parent, Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James continue their discussion on raising gender-confident children with Dr. Jeff Myers and Dr. Kathy Koch, co-authors of Raising Gender Confident Kids. We continue to discuss the sensitive topics of gender identity, understanding gender differences, and teaching children to respect and harmonize with each other's unique qualities. We'll address how parents can maintain a healthy communication framework with their childr...

Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss the importance of raising children with confidence and clarity in a world filled with misinformation with Dr. Jeff Meyers and Dr. Kathy Cook, who have extensive experience in child development and biblical parenting. They emphasize the significance of providing correct information on gender identity and the importance of parent-child conversations to counter cultural lies. We're giving loving, practical advice on establishing trust, being observant,...

How do the unpredictable life events challenge and transform us? Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James speak with Sheila Walsh, an author, bible teacher, and speaker, whose life story revolves around overcoming adversity. Sheila discusses the importance of gratitude, forgiveness, and trust in God, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on how to instill these values in children. We'll also answer a listener's question about how to handle unfairness and fostering a household culture of gratitud...

Have you ever thought about serving your community as a family? On this episode, Danny and Rebecca speak with Justin Knoop, the founder of Blessing Boys. Justin and his four sons perform free lawn care services for those in need, inspired by their mission work and personal transformation through faith. Justin explains the profound impact of these acts of service on both his family and the community, and we encourage you to explore this idea in your home. We talk about overcoming the awkwardness ...

Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James share amusing 'genius parenting wins' from listeners before introducing their guest, Darby Strickland, who offers expertise in counseling with over 22 years of experience. Darby discusses how to help children navigate life changes, trauma, and sadness. She shares insights on handling children's emotions during changes like moves, school transitions, and parental divorce. We answer a listener's email about the appropriateness of mental health questions asked...

Merry Christmas from the entire Practice Makes Parent team! On this episode Danny and Rebecca discuss the joys and complexities of Christmas. They share personal stories, family traditions, and the challenges of maintaining a Christ-centered, less materialistic holiday. We touch on family dynamics, managing expectations, and the impact of grief during the holiday season with commentary from Mary Hunt, Kathy Lip, Greg and Erin Smalley, and Levi and Jenny Lesco. We also talk about how parents can ...

Do you ever feel guilty because your family isn't "spiritual enough"? On this episode of Practice Makes Parent, Rebecca St. James and Dr. Danny Huerta discuss the pursuit of creating a Christ-centered home with guest Don Everts, a senior pastor and author of 'The Spiritually Vibrant Home.' We'll talk about how Jesus used household images to represent the Kingdom of God and delves into the structure of ancient households compared to modern ones. Evers shares insights from his research with Barna ...

Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss the significance of transforming parenting through the lens of faith, focusing on the true meaning of Christmas with special guest Lee Strobel. He shares insights on nurturing children’s faith, particularly during the Christmas season, recounting personal experiences and the story of St. Nicholas. The discussion shifts to how parents can counter consumerism and instill values of generosity and humility in their children, suggesting practical activit...

On this episode of Practice Makes Parent, Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, welcome Brandon and David Lindell to discuss the challenges and responsibilities of modern fatherhood. We'll talk about the importance of self-awareness, character, and heart formation in men and their sons. It highlights the pressures men face today, such as isolation, economic stress, and toxic online influences, and emphasizes that true strength lies in vulnerability and emotional engagement. Lionhearted: A Man...

We're getting real and discussing the importance of family culture, emphasizing November as Child Safety and Protection Month. Danny and Rebecca welcome Jessica Smartt, author of Come On Home, and her insights and experiences raising children on an intergenerational family farm. We discuss the challenges and benefits of such a setup, and the principles of grace and forgiveness. We'll go over the different parenting stages, the importance of intentional quality and quantity time with children, an...

On this special Halloween edition of Practice Makes Parent, Rebecca and Danny discuss the complexities of celebrating Halloween from a Christian perspective. The conversation includes insights from Jesse Florea, editor in-chief of Clubhouse and Brio Magazine. The trio address the historical pagan roots of Halloween, its commercialism, and how Christian families can balance participation while staying true to their faith. We discuss various approaches such as using the holiday for outreach, choos...

This special 100th episode of 'Practice Makes Parent' features renowned psychiatrist and brain health expert, Dr. Daniel Amen. They discuss the importance of brain health in parenting and how small daily habits can build resilience in children. Dr. Amen shares insights from his research on brain imaging and how understanding brain health can transform mental health approaches. Learn how to guard your child's mental health with this free video series Free Digital Download: Focusing On Your Fami...

This is an EPIC episode of Practice Makes Parent! Danny and Rebecca discuss the importance of resilience in children and how parents can foster it with Dr. Nicole Wilke. They focus on developing Christlike character, the benefits of challenges, and the role of parental support in children's growth. The Q&A segment addresses handling sibling rivalry, disrespect, and habitual lying, offering advice on fostering respect, grace, and joy in difficult parenting situations. Practical tips for resilienc...

On this episode, Danny and Rebecca discuss the importance of praying for teenage girls with guest Stacey Thacker. They explore the unique pressures teenage girls face today, including loneliness, anxiety, and the influence of social media. Stacey emphasizes the value of intentional prayer, family discussions, and mentorship. We'll also address a dad's email about how to discuss womanhood with his twin daughters, and the need for both parents to engage in conversations about puberty and spiritual...

Wondering how to help your kids internalize the Love of God? On this insightful episode of Practice Makes Parent, Danny and Rebecca discuss the transformative journey of parenting with neuroscientist and theologian Dr. Andrea La Fountain, author of Loving God: A Scriptural and Psychological Guide to Fulfilling the Greatest Commandment. She emphasizes the importance of teaching children to love God with all their heart, soul, and mind, providing practical examples for different developmental stag...

On this episode of Practice Makes Parent, Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss how parents can strategically address the preteen (and teen) years with Tricia Goyer and Leslie Nunnery. We'll talk how parents can emphasize the importance of intentional relationships, understand developmental changes, and the role of service in faith formation. Faith That Sticks View the new documentary: Truth Rising Bring Your Bible To School Day Learn more about Launch Into The Teen Years We'd love...

Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss autism and family dynamics with Dr. Stephanie Holmes, a certified autism specialist. They cover a range of topics, including recognizing autism symptoms, navigating the diagnostic process, and effective therapies. Dr. Holmes shares her personal journey and professional insights, emphasizing the importance of community support, early intervention, and maintaining a balanced family life. Finally, Dr. Holmes' daughter, Sydney, offers a message of hope ...

Have you ever wondered if you or your child was dyslexic? On this episode of Practice Makes Parent, Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James discuss dyslexia and its impact on children and families. They are joined by Dr. Rebecca Sanford, an expert in educational leadership, who shares her personal and professional experiences. The conversation covers identifying signs of dyslexia and effective educational strategies. We want to emphasize the importance of recognizing and nurturing the strengths a...