Helping Teens Care About God Again: What Parents Can Do | Ep. 21

Parenting is an incredible adventure—but it can also feel confusing and overwhelming, especially when your teen drifts into apathy about faith. In this episode of the Upside-Down Parenting podcast from Summit Ministries, Matt and Janel unpack what apathy really is, why it shows up, and how parents can help their kids reawaken desire for God through meaningful, everyday practices.

We kick things off with stories from Matt and Janel's lives—from student moments and family traditions, to the world of PSATs, college planning, and the subtle apathy teens sometimes bring to significant life transitions. These honest reflections help set the stage for today's deep dive. This episode offers rich insight for parents who want to cultivate deeper meaning, mission, and affection in their home.

Apathy isn't solved in one conversation—it's shaped over time through rhythms that awaken the heart and steady the soul. 👉 Have a question for our next Q&A episode? Email us at podcast@summit.org with "Upside-Down Parenting" in the subject line. Thanks for listening—and we'll see you next time!

Resources we talked about or that we'd recommend:

*Five Reasons for Spiritual Apathy in Teens: What Parents Can Do to Help—Rob & Amy Rienow

*The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts—Gary Chapman

*Overcoming Apathy: Gospel Hope for Those Who Struggle to Care—Uche Anizor

*Five to Thrive: How to Determine if Your Core Needs Are Being Met (And What To Do When They're Not)—Kathy Koch