Parenting Uncovered with Dave & Ashley Willis

In this episode of Parenting Uncovered, Dave and Ashley Willis discuss how to communicate better with your child. They emphasize the importance of becoming students of your children and understanding their unique communication styles. They suggest using the concept of love languages to better understand how your child communicates and receives love. They also recommend spending one-on-one time with each child daily and planning special trips when they turn 10 and 13. By giving your child your best attention and showing that you enjoy being with them, you can improve communication and strengthen your relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered podcast with Dave and Ashley! In this episode, we tackle the tricky topic of handling tantrums in public and the challenges parents face in managing their children's behavior. We dive into the importance of discipline, setting consequences, and preparation to help avoid tantrums. Sharing our own experiences and insights, we offer practical advice on navigating these tough parenting moments with confidence and grace. Join us for an honest and helpful discussion on parenting and discipline! ----------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode & more XO content, visit https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ----------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and YouTube Channel Promotion 01:21 The Challenge of Handling Tantrums in Public 06:26 Preparation and Communication: Keys to Avoiding Tantrums 09:16 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting and Solidarity Among Parents Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered Podcast with Dave and Ashley! In this episode, we dive into the challenges children face in making and maintaining friendships. We explore the impact of technology, personality differences, and life transitions on their social lives. Join us as we share practical advice for parents to help their children develop meaningful and lasting friendships. ----------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode & more XO content, visit https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ----------------------- Chapters 00:00 Navigating Children's Friendship Challenges 03:20 Supporting Children in Developing Meaningful Friendships 07:00 Practical Advice for Parents on Children's Friendships Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered podcast! In this episode, we dive into the vital topic of teaching our kids responsibility and accountability. We'll explore how starting with age-appropriate tasks and gradually increasing their responsibilities can significantly impact their development and future success. We'll also discuss the role of failure as a valuable learning experience and share insights on how to incentivize responsibilities. Plus, we'll highlight the long-term benefits of instilling grit and independence in our children. Join us, Dave and Ashley, as we uncover the keys to raising responsible and resilient kids! ------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode & more XO content, visit https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------- Chapters 00:00 Teaching Kids Responsibility and Accountability 07:07 Incentivizing Responsibilities and Financial Responsibility 11:54 The Value of Failure as a Learning Experience 16:30 Shaping Children's Attitudes Towards Responsibility and Independence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered Podcast with Dave and Ashley! Today, we're diving into the delicate topic of navigating changes in the family, especially grief, and how it impacts our children. It's crucial to remember that kids process these experiences differently based on their age and developmental stage. Rather than avoiding the conversation or expecting them to cope like adults, we need to engage in open, age-appropriate dialogues. Encourage your children to ask questions, and reassure them that it's okay if we don't have all the answers. We'll also explore ways to honor memories and empower our kids through the healing process. Join us as we uncover these important parenting strategies together! -------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage -------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Understanding Children's Perspectives 02:47 Age-Appropriate Explanations 03:46 Reassurance and Answering Questions 07:31 Remembrance and Empowerment 10:22 Divorce and Children 11:52 Taking Care of Your Own Mental Health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered Podcast with Dave & Ashley Willis! In this episode, we're diving into the essential topic of boosting your child's reading skills. We'll explore how reading opens doors and expands imagination, even in today's tech-heavy world. We'll tackle the challenges screens present to reading habits and share practical tips like reading to your kids from a young age, offering engaging books, and setting screen time boundaries. Plus, we'll discuss the benefits of reading biographies and how to incentivize reading. Don't miss our wrap-up about an exciting upcoming parenting conference! -------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage -------------------------- Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Boosting Reading Skills 02:22 Navigating the Challenges of Technology and Reading 03:49 Practical Tips for Encouraging Reading 07:13 The Benefits of Reading Biographies 09:35 Incentivizing Reading for Children 12:01 Continuing to Learn and Grow as Parents Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Parenting Uncovered! In this episode, Dave and Ashley dive deep into the topic of preparing children for big transitions like starting school or moving up a grade. Drawing from their own experiences and insights, they emphasize the significance of communication, celebration, and support during these pivotal moments. They encourage parents to slow down, walk their kids through the changes, and foster confidence in their abilities to adapt. Remember, being there for your children emotionally and seeking help when necessary are essential ingredients in navigating transitions successfully. Tune in for practical tips and heartfelt discussions on parenting through life's transitions. ------------------------ For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 04:14 Walking Children Through Their Day and Getting Them Excited 08:51 Seeking Help and Providing Emotional Support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered podcast! In this episode, Dave and Ashley Willis, dive into how you can guide your children towards academic success without overwhelming them with pressure. We'll share insights from our journey raising four kids with varied academic interests and abilities. We discuss the significance of valuing education, uncovering what uniquely motivates each child, and the critical roles of teachers and parents in supporting a child's educational path. Tune in as we explore strategies for advocating for your child and balancing respect for authority with personalized support for your child’s academic needs. ---------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ---------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Question 07:02 Challenges of Focusing in School 13:08 Finding What Your Child Needs to Thrive Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered podcast with Dave and Ashley! In today’s episode, we delve into the often challenging topic of ensuring your child eats a nutritious diet. We understand that every child is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition just doesn’t work. Instead of pushing for extreme measures—whether that's strict control or complete indulgence—we advocate for a balanced approach. We share insights from our own experiences dealing with a picky eater and offer practical tips on how to promote healthy eating habits in children. We also explore the impact of external influences on children’s eating behaviors and the critical role parents play in modeling these healthy behaviors. Join us as we unpack these points to help you navigate the complex world of parenting and nutrition. --------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage --------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Parenting Quick Tips series 07:31 Encouraging children to try new foods 11:52 The role of sugar in a child's diet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Parenting Uncovered! Today, we have a parenting quick tip for you: the challenge of parents not being on the same page with parenting. We've been there ourselves, but we found a solution by seeking guidance from a mentor couple. Being a united front is key, having each other's back in parenting matters. It's about clear expectations, agreed-upon discipline methods, and a shared understanding of family values. Remember, seek support from mentors and build a community for guidance and accountability. Thanks for tuning in! --------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage --------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Navigating Parenting Differences 02:27 Seeking Guidance from a Mentor Couple 05:19 Being a United Front 06:15 Setting Clear Expectations and Discipline Methods 08:05 Building a Supportive Community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Parenting Uncovered! In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Sabrina Schmeichel, a fellow parent and expert in navigating the wild journey of parenthood. From the challenges of raising a one-year-old to the importance of reaching out for support, we delved into invaluable insights. Sabrina's take on toy rotation and Montessori learning sparked some exciting ideas for us and hopefully for you too! Plus, who doesn't love a good dad joke to wrap things up? Tune in for practical tips and a dose of encouragement for all you early-stage parents out there. ------------------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------------------------- Takeaways Remember that your little one is a tiny person with needs and emotions. Understanding their communication and relating to them can help navigate challenges. Asking for help and accepting it is essential for parental well-being. Trusting your partner and allowing them to take care of the baby can strengthen your relationship. Toy rotation and Montessori learning can stimulate your child's creativity and imagination. Limiting the number of toys and providing a curated selection can enhance their play experience. Parenting practices have evolved over the decades, and it's important to stay informed and adapt to new research and recommendations. ------------------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:00 Struggles of Raising a Little One 04:18 Lessons Learned in the First Year of Parenthood 05:40 Importance of Asking for Help 06:37 Supporting Each Other in Parenthood 25:25 Fascinating Parenting Facts Through the Decades 27:48 Dad Joke 28:27 Where to Find Sabrina Schmeichel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Parenting Uncovered; today, we have a special guest, Dr. Morgan Cutlip. She discusses the concept of the mental load and its impact on relationships, particularly in the context of parenting. The mental load refers to the running to-do list that individuals, often parents, carry in their minds. It takes up cognitive real estate and includes invisible tasks that are often not shared with partners. The mental load can lead to frustration, resentment, and burnout. Dr. Cutlip suggests regular check-ins and open communication as ways to address the mental load and avoid burnout. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-check-ins to maintain mental health and offers insights on how couples can support each other in managing the mental load. The conversation also includes fascinating parenting facts and lighthearted jokes. ---------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------------ Takeaways The mental load refers to the running to-do list that individuals, often women, carry in their minds. The mental load can lead to frustration, resentment, and burnout in relationships, particularly after having children. Regular check-ins and open communication are important for addressing the mental load and avoiding burnout. Self-care and self-check-ins are crucial for maintaining mental health and preventing burnout. Couples can support each other by being aware of each other's capacity and finding ways to serve and help each other. ------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:07 Discussion on the Mental Load 09:08 Managing the Mental Load as a Single Parent 11:24 Importance of Self-Check-Ins and Replenishment 16:12 The Power of Grace and Humility in Relationships 22:06 Taking the First Step in Resolving Standoffs 25:21 Fascinating Parenting Fact: Nutrition and Technology in the 1940s 26:50 Dad Joke and Mom Joke 27:46 Where to Connect with Dr. Morgan Cutlip Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Parenting Uncovered! In this episode, we dive into intentional living and community building with the insightful Dr. Autumn Swain, author of The Playground Leader. Dr. Swain emphasizes the significance of creating margin in our lives and prioritizing what truly matters. She shares practical tips for fostering healthy eating habits in kids and stresses the importance of setting boundaries while explaining the reasons behind them. Join us as we explore Dr. Swain's holistic approach to youth development and learn how we can lead by example to make a positive impact on our families and communities. -------------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage -------------------------------- Takeaways Create margin and prioritize what's truly important in your life. Teach kids to love and connect with others, and be intentional in building community. Set boundaries and explain the why behind healthy eating to get kids to eat healthy. Lead from the front and create a positive impact on your family and community. -------------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:37 Dr. Autumn Swain's Background and Inspiration 01:27 Dr. Swain's Expertise and Content Creation 03:19 Importance of Intentional Living and Community 04:14 Teaching Kids to Love and Connect with Others 05:09 Creating Margin and Prioritizing What's Important 06:03 Using Sports as Teaching Moments 07:22 Noticing People and Building Community 08:20 Practical Examples of Living Intentionally 09:15 Teaching Kids the Importance of Loving Others 10:13 Balancing Achievement and Margin in Kids' Lives 11:04 The Vision for the Book 12:30 The Genesis of the Book 13:23 Taking a Holistic Approach to Youth Development 14:18 Developing Young People as Leaders 15:15 Recognizing the Potential in Young People 16:15 Teaching Kids to Seek Peace and Margin 17:44 Getting Kids to Eat Healthy 18:43 The Holistic Approach to Wellness 19:07 Making Healthy Food Taste Good 20:02 Being Firm and Setting Boundaries 21:00 Explaining the Why Behind Healthy Eating 22:17 Creating Normalcy Around Healthy Eating 24:10 Keeping Unhealthy Foods Out of the House 25:06 Dishing Plates and Teaching Independence 26:06 Fascinating Fact and Dad Joke 28:13 Where to Find Dr. Autumn Swain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Parenting Uncovered! In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Blythe Daniel, author of 'Let's Be Friends.' Together with her daughter, Kaylin, they shed light on navigating the complexities of female friendships, especially during the challenging middle school years. From building self-esteem to recognizing toxic relationships, Blythe shares invaluable insights on empowering girls to establish healthy boundaries. We delve into the significance of multi-generational friendships and fostering connections with our children. Tune in as we explore practical guidance for parents and girls alike, emphasizing the importance of resources on this crucial aspect of growing up. ------------------------ For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------------ Takeaways Middle school years can be challenging for girls in terms of friendships, and it is important for parents to provide guidance and support. Girls often hold on to unhealthy friendships because they want to be liked and accepted, but it is crucial to teach them about self-esteem and confidence. Recognizing toxic friendships and establishing boundaries is essential for girls to maintain healthy relationships. Developing multi-generational friendships and fostering friendship with children can create strong family bonds and provide valuable support. --------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:57 The Need for a Resource on Female Friendships 03:17 The Personal Motivation for Writing the Book 06:29 Developing Multi-generational Friendships 08:17 Fostering Friendship with Children 10:01 Recognizing and Addressing Toxic Friendships 11:23 The Importance of Self-Esteem and Confidence 15:06 Empowering Girls to Establish Boundaries 24:45 Conclusion and Where to Find More Information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered podcast! In today's episode, we had the privilege of chatting with Pastor Jimmy Evans about the profound significance of raising children in alignment with God's Word. Together, we explore the challenges that parents encounter in today's world and the essential role of parenting in glorifying God and fulfilling His unique plan for each child. Pastor Evans inspires us to break free from generational patterns and cultivate our children's identity in Christ, drawing from his own journey and emphasizing the importance of intentionality and openness to God's divine direction in our parenting. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom and encouragement for all parents out there! ----------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ----------------------- Takeaways Raising children according to the Word of God is essential for their spiritual growth and development. The purpose of parenting is to glorify God and help children fulfill their God-given destinies. Parents should avoid cookie-cutter parenting and instead focus on raising children according to their unique gifts and inclinations. Building children's identity in Christ is more important than worldly success or popularity. ----------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:06 Decision to Raise Children According to the Word of God 04:24 Gratefulness for the Promises of God 05:23 Purpose of Parenting: Glorifying God 06:17 Challenges of Parenting in the Current Generation 08:15 Raising Children According to God's Purpose 09:07 Avoiding Cookie-Cutter Parenting 10:04 Building Identity in Christ 11:00 Filtering Actions Through the Purpose of Glorifying God 13:22 Breaking Generational Cycles 15:43 Learning to Parent Without Examples 21:59 Prayer for Parents Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey there, welcome back to the Parenting Uncovered podcast! Today, Ashley and I are diving deep into a topic that hits close to home for many families: bullying. We're opening up about our own experiences and shedding light on what bullying really looks like. Together, we're highlighting the importance of teaching our kids to stand up for themselves and others. Plus, we're exploring the nuances of strength, protection, and how Jesus' example plays into it all. We also tackle the tough issue of what to do if your child is the one doing the bullying. Stick around until the end for a little dose of fun with a cool fact and of course, one of my classic dad jokes. Thanks for joining us on this journey through parenthood! ------------------------ For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------------ Takeaways Bullying is a serious issue that needs to be addressed Teach children to stand up to bullies and defend themselves Physical strength and protection play a role in dealing with bullies Recognize if your child is the bully and address the issue Bullying can have long-lasting effects on individuals ------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and XO Marriage Headquarters 01:03 Introduction to the Topic of Bullying 04:13 Defining Bullying 05:13 Duration and Severity of Bullying 06:06 Involving Parents and Teachers 08:56 Teaching Kids to Stand Up to Bullies 10:24 The Importance of Physical Strength and Protection 11:23 The Role of Masculinity in Bullying 13:20 The Complexity of Jesus' Example 14:47 The Impact of Standing Up to Bullies 16:30 Recognizing if Your Child is the Bully 19:49 Ashley's Personal Experience with Bullying 22:11 Bullying Among Girls 25:00 Standing Up to Bullies 28:28 Understanding the Insecurity of Bullies 30:18 Fun Fact and Dad Joke 31:32 Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to 'Parenting Uncovered' with hosts Dave & Ashley Willis and special guest Susan Thomas. In this episode, we tackle the vital topic of 'Parenting Through Childhood Anxiety and Depression.' Join us as we explore practical strategies, expert insights, and empathetic approaches to help parents navigate and support their children facing anxiety and depression challenges. Tune in for valuable tips and tools to empower both parents and kids on this critical journey." ------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------- Chapters 00:00 Recognizing anxiety and depression in children 03:21 Personal experience with anxiety and depression in a child 10:05 Addressing the root causes of anxiety and depression 12:29 Leading children to the one who can heal them 15:11 Creating a safe space for children to express their emotions 17:00 The impact of screen time on mental health 19:20 The role of phones in triggering anxiety and depression 21:46 Balancing pushing children to excel without causing anxiety 23:43 Examining our own behaviors and emotions as parents 25:59 The controversial practice of eating the placenta Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Parenting Uncovered podcast, with Dave & Ashley Willis and featuring special guest Susan Thomas. Today, we are talking about the Impact of Divorce on Children. Join us for a revealing discussion on how divorce truly affects children. Through expert insights and real stories, we'll explore the realities, dispel misconceptions, and offer guidance for parents navigating this sensitive issue ------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------- Takeaways  Divorce can have a significant impact on children, and it is important for parents to acknowledge and address their child's grief. Creating a supportive and open environment for conversation is crucial in helping children navigate the complex emotions associated with divorce. Seeking counseling and community support can provide valuable guidance and resources for parents and children going through divorce. In blended families, it is important to be intentional with time and to prioritize the well-being of all family members. ------------------- 00:00 Introduction and Importance of the Topic 02:2 5Understanding Divorce and Its Impact on Children 05:21 Helping Children Heal and Thrive 08:40 The Longing for Reconciliation 10:06 Helping Children Navigate Complex Emotions 13:24 Recognizing and Addressing Grief 15:11 Talking About the Ex-Spouse 18:00 Time and Intentionality in Blended Families 21:18 Fun Fact: Irish Parenting Tradition 22:16 Dad Joke 23:03 Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Parenting Uncovered podcast with Dave and Ashley Willis! In this episode, we're joined by the insightful Susan Thomas, a licensed professional counselor and pastor, as we dive into the critical topic of parenting discipline. Together, we explore the challenges parents encounter in establishing effective discipline, highlighting the necessity for a united front. We also delve into the biblical perspective on discipline, exploring its role in teaching obedience and honor. To wrap things up, we share a dad joke and a fascinating fact about the contagious nature of pregnancy and parenting. Join us for a blend of wisdom, humor, and shared experiences on this parenting journey! ------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage ------------------- Takeaways Discipline is crucial in parenting and helps children learn obedience and honor. Parents should strive to be on the same page and present a unified front in discipline. Understanding the why behind discipline is important, as it helps parents stay focused on the ultimate goal of raising children who flourish. Discipline should be done in a loving and controlled manner, with the intention of teaching and guiding children. --------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:29 Importance of Discipline in Parenting 03:02 Understanding the Purpose of Discipline 04:00 Getting on the Same Page as Parents 05:02 Being a Unified Front in Discipline 06:00 Different Approaches to Discipline 08:16 The Importance of Discipline for Children's Future 10:00 Understanding the Why Behind Discipline 11:25 Discipline as a Way to Teach Obedience and Honor 12:25 Dealing with Judgment from Others 15:21 Parenting as a Process of Refinement 17:43 Age-Specific Discipline Tactics 19:19 The Biblical Perspective on Discipline 20:45 Personal Experience with Spanking 22:07 Understanding the Need for Discipline 23:48 The Effectiveness of Spanking 26:05 The Importance of Consequences 27:24 Parenting as a Spiritual Battle 28:22 Meaning What You Say and Saying What You Mean 29:17 Dad Joke and Fascinating Fact 31:04 Closing Remarks and Where to Find More Information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Parenting Uncovered! While we haven't personally experienced adoption, we've walked alongside numerous individuals who have embarked on this incredible journey In this episode, we're delving into adoption – the highs, hurdles, and heart. From foster care to international adoption, open vs. closed adoption, and handling challenges like spousal disagreements. We touch on grieving and support for infertility and offer practical ways to support adoptive families. Join us for a real talk on the Parenting Uncovered podcast! ------------------------- For all links mentioned in the episode and more: https://linktr.ee/nakedmarriage Need a date night?: https://www.xonow.com/pages/xo-now-at-home ------------------------- Takeaways Consider adoption and be open to God's calling. Support adoptive families through prayer, financial assistance, and practical help. Educate yourself about different adoption processes and the challenges they may present. Grieve the loss of biological children and embrace the unique blessings of adoption. ------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Dad Jokes 00:36 Importance of Adoption 01:06 Supporting Adoption 02:03 Different Adoption Processes 02:54 Supporting Adoption Families 03:49 Open vs. Closed Adoption 04:47 Challenges of Open Adoption 06:14 Spouse Disagreement on Adoption 07:40 Praying for Unity in Adoption Decision 08:34 Long and Arduous Adoption Process 09:26 Celebrating the Child's Culture of Origin 10:55 Adjusting to Adopted Siblings1 2:52 Considerations for Infertility and Adoption 13:19 Movie Recommendation: Instant Family 14:19 Grieving the Loss of Biological Children 15:47 God's Timing and Miracles in Adoption 17:39 Dealing with Unexpected Health Issues in Adoption 19:54 Supporting Adoption as the Body of Christ 20:22 Practical Ways to Support Adoptive Families 21:49 Respite Care for Foster Parents 23:40 Ashley'sFascinating Fact 24:34 Daves Dad Joke 25:02 Conclusion and Call to Action Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices