541: How to Know When to Push Your Child… and When to Back Off

When should you push your child to do something hard, and when is it better to back off? Today Karen and Emily are answering questions straight from our Wire Talk Insiders about stubborn kids, sibling bickering, big feelings, and building confidence. If you've ever wondered whether you're being too tough, too lenient, or just plain overthinking it, this episode is for you!

Episode Recap:

• Thanks to our WT Insiders for the questions today! (3:03)
• How do I motivate my stubborn and shy child?? (4:01)
• If I give my kids an inch, they take a mile. Help! (8:20)
• How do I handle sibling bickering? (10:43)
• How do I help my 7 year old handle big (to him) new things? (14:30)
• How do I build confidence in my kids? (18:30)
• How do I honor my husband when we disagree on something? (22:00)

Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) — “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

Discussion Questions:

1. Is there an area where you're pushing your child too hard or letting them off the hook too easily? How do you know the difference?
2. What is something your child is afraid to try right now? How can you help them face that fear?
3. Do you tend to overcorrect your kids or let things slide? What makes it hard for you to find the middle ground?
4. When you and your husband disagree about parenting, how do you handle it? Are you working as a team or letting your differences create tension?

Resources:

• Listen to marriage communication episode with guest Ted Lowe
• Reach out to have Karen or Erin come speak in your community.

Want More of This Conversation?During Wire Talk+, Karen and Emily keep answering our Insider’s questions! Karen shares how she learned to trust her instincts as a mom, what to do when a parenting decision doesn't work out, and how to stop second-guessing every little thing.

Become an Insider today to get bonus content each week, join quarterly Zoom calls with Karen and sustain the ministry of this podcast!