Raising Boys & Girls • That Sounds Fun Network

Dive into a reflective conversation on 'Raising Boys & Girls' where Sissy Goff, David Thomas, and special guest Sara Hagerty unpack the challenges of parenting during times of adversity. Sara Hagerty shares her personal struggles with letting go of expectations and the journey to find contentment amidst life's uncertainties, such as illness and hardship. The episode delves into the hard-earned wisdom of trusting in a higher plan and the peace that comes with accepting life’s divergent paths, emphasizing the need to release the predetermined milestones we set for our children.

Amidst the discussion, the importance of surrendering control as a parent takes center stage. The speakers explore the emotions parents face when confronting unmet expectations and limitations. From processing feelings of disappointment and anger to embracing life's realities versus personal ambitions, this episode offers insights into finding growth through surrender. Sara also shares her battle with infertility, challenging the conventional notions of productivity and self-worth, as she opens up about finding value beyond achievements. Listeners are invited to appreciate the enchantment of youth through the eyes of children, as the podcast underscores the significance of preserving innocence and joy in the early stages of life.

Join "Raising Boys & Girls" with hosts Sissy Goff, David Thomas, and guest Michael Gurian as they delve into the compelling dynamics of educating and nurturing boys. In this episode, Gurian presents targeted strategies that cater to the unique developmental needs of boys, including the importance of incorporating physical activity and breaks into learning routines. These insights aim to optimize boys' academic and personal growth by acknowledging and leveraging their natural tendencies toward movement and social interaction.

Discover the fascinating neurological distinctions between boys and girls highlighted by Michael Gurian's research. Gurian uncovers the diverging developmental paths of male and female brains, insights which he believes are key to customizing educational practices to bridge gender disparities prevalent in today's schooling. Furthermore, the episode explores the significance of shaping parenting approaches based on each child's individual nature. Gurian, with his vast experience in therapy and gender studies, provides invaluable guidance for parents and educators striving to create enriching experiences and environments for children's flourishing.

Explore the essential stages of adolescent growth with the team of David Thomas, Sissy Goff, and Melissa Trevathan on the "Raising Boys & Girls" podcast. Dive into the discussion around the importance of nurturing healthy relationships between young individuals and their adult counterparts as well as peers. Learn about the profound effect these bonds have on adolescent decision-making and the development of behaviors that steer clear of risks. The hosts argue that a supportive social circle and positive peer influence create a foundation for teenagers to flourish in all aspects of their lives.

Tune in to gain insights on the delicate task of encouraging emotional growth and resilience in adolescents, as the speakers outline the importance of modeling virtues like mercy and forgiveness. Parents and caregivers can discover practical tips on how to enhance communication, manage potential conflicts, and bolster conflict resolution skills among young adults. Additionally, Goff brings into focus the empowerment of adolescent girls through life skill education and promoting self-awareness, arming them with the tools necessary for confidently navigating their journey into adulthood.

Join David Thomas, Sissy Goff, and guest speaker Cynthia Yanof on the "Raising Boys & Girls" podcast for an authentic dive into the complex world of fostering, adopting, and the true essence of parenting success. Cynthia shares her personal challenges and revelations, fleshing out how the foster care journey molded her identity, nurturing resilience and compassion in unexpected ways. Yanof opens up about the anticipation and faith that underscored her path to adopt, highlighting the profound impact these experiences have had on her family life and spiritual growth. The episode offers a candid exploration of how fostering and adoption intertwine with personal faith and character development, shaping the lives of both children and parents.

As the conversation progresses, Yanof lends her perspective on navigating the teen years, advocating for humor amid the tumultuous experience of raising high schoolers. From harrowing driving lessons to handling sarcasm, she discusses the importance of incorporating laughter into guidance. Cynthia also touches on discovering everyday manifestations of God's goodness, from the resilience displayed by her son on the football field to embracing the lessons learned from life's unplanned moments. This episode of "Raising Boys & Girls" presents a narrative that supports recognizing the significance of authenticity and imperfection in family life and illuminating how ordinary interactions can reinforce family values and faith.

Dive into the rich tapestry of adolescent development with the latest installment from "Raising Boys & Girls" where speakers David Thomas and Sissy Goff dissect the complexities of the teenage years. This episode journeys through the emotional labyrinth that boys face as they grapple with hormonal surges and the quest for self-identity. David Thomas lays bare the struggles entangled with biological changes, from mood swings to physical transformations, and offers pearls of wisdom for parents to navigate communication with their teenage sons.

Similarly, Sissy Goff shines a light on the delicate process of nurturing intuition and self-esteem in adolescent girls. She introduces practical strategies that empower girls to articulate their feelings and bolster their belief in themselves. Goff's insights into the "Tell Me More" approach reveal the power of active listening in developing deeper connections and understanding. Discover the nuances of shaping body image and learn to sidestep the pitfalls of adult influence on a girl's perception of self-worth, all in the quest to support the healthy growth of the next generation.