This week’s episode is packed with insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of parenting during the middle school years. I’m joined by Courtney DeFeo, and together we dive into balancing love, independence, and the continuous learning process of parenting.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

• Parenting evolves as children grow, and middle school years often require creative ways to re-engage with your kids.
• Allowing children to experience failure helps them develop responsibility and confidence.
• Overparenting can hinder independence—parents should guide their children through problems, not shield them from them.
• Self-care for parents is crucial to maintaining balance and avoiding guilt in the parenting journey.

Courtney DeFeo is the host of the Pardon the Mess podcast here on the Christian Parenting Podcast Network where she encourages parents every week to be the imperfectly perfect parent God created them to be. She is also an author, speaker, and advocate for empowering parents to create lasting family connections. With her relatable approach and passion for practical parenting, Courtney inspires families to navigate challenges with grace and joy.

We had a ton of fun recording this episode and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

(01:57) Navigating Parenting Stages

(06:10) Engaging with Middle Schoolers

(10:07) The Balance of Hovering and Letting Go

(13:57) Preparing for Independence

(18:02) Overparenting: Understanding the Roots

(21:06) Navigating the Challenges of Letting Go in Parenting

(24:35) The Importance of Self-Care and Mom Guilt

(26:54) Recognizing Red Flags in Parenting Dynamics

(28:54) Practical Strategies to Avoid Over-Parenting

(31:37) Embracing Independence and Building Confidence in Kids

(34:49) The Balance of Love and Guidance in Parenting

Connect with Courtney

Pardon the Mess podcast

Pardon the Mess Instagram

Courtney’s Instagram

Courtney’s website

Resources Mentioned

What’s In Mommy’s Tummy?

Family Meeting Guide

In This House We Will Giggle

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org