Gentle Parenting vs. Tough Love—Which One Actually Works?

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore the parenting approaches of gentle parenting and tough love. They discuss the core principles, benefits, and potential pitfalls of each method—clarifying common misconceptions like equating gentle parenting with permissiveness or tough love with harshness. Through personal stories, practical examples, and thoughtful dialogue, they offer insights to help parents strike a healthy balance between empathy and structure. Whether you're parenting toddlers, teens, or navigating differences with your spouse in your parenting styles, this episode offers valuable advice to help you raise emotionally healthy, respectful, and secure children.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Art of Parenting – FamilyLife
  A six-week online course to help parents develop a clear parenting plan with biblical principles. Great for small groups or individual study.
• Boundaries with Kids by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
  A practical guide to teaching children responsibility and setting healthy boundaries from a biblical perspective.
• Boundaries with Teens by Dr. John Townsend
  Equips parents to establish healthy boundaries with their teenagers while staying connected and supportive.

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About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.