

Practice Makes Parent
Focus on the Family
Dive into the heart of Christian parenting with "Practice Makes Parent," your go-to podcast for actionable insights, faith-based inspiration, and real-life strategies for every stage of parenthood. From the joyous toddler years to the challenging school-age phase, the perplexities of puberty, and the exhilarating journey of guiding your confident teen, this podcast is your trusty companion. Join hosts Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James as they bring you weekly episodes packed with the wisdom of parenting experts. Uncover Biblical truths, effective parenting techniques, and a treasure trove of resources designed to empower moms and dads in today's ever-evolving culture in this fun Christian parenting podcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 28, 2026 • 48min
Teaching Kids Sexual Integrity
Don't be nervous moms and dads! We're talking about how to discuss sexuality with your kids. Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James talk with Dr. Jim Burns, an expert in Christian parenting and sexuality. He shares how to have the ongoing conversations, the peer pressure influence, and emotional maturity. We also answer a listener question on how to handle emotional and moody preteen behavior without shaming the child. A Student's Guide to Sexual Integrity: God's Plan for Sex and Your Body Launch Into The Teen Years Call our Counseling Line at 1800-A-FAMILY Support the show! Ask Us Your Question via Voicemail or Email If you enjoyed listening to Practice Makes Parent with Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, please give us your feedback.

Jan 21, 2026 • 39min
Lies That You Think Will Make You Happy
The episode emphasizes authenticity, connections, and the importance of self-compassion in the parenting journey. Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James explore the 'comparison trap' and how it impacts parents, with Kate Strickler, author of 'I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen.' They discuss the negative effects of constantly comparing oneself to others, the importance of contentment, and practical steps to shift mindsets towards gratitude. They also address how these issues manifest in family life and offer advice for building healthier perspectives. We also answer a listener's question about disciplining an impulsive child, providing strategies to support development of self-control. I Just Wish I Had A Bigger Kitchen: And Other Lies I Think Will Make Me Happy Nurturing Gratitude In Your Child's Heart Check Out Our Built For Resilience Tool! Support the show! Ask Us Your Question via Voicemail or Email If you enjoyed listening to Practice Makes Parent with Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, please give us your feedback.

5 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 47min
How to Teach Kids Theology
Hunter Williams, a children's ministry practitioner and co-author, brings practical classroom-tested approaches. Sam Luce, a ministry leader and co-author, offers doctrinal teaching tools for families. They explore why theology matters for families. They share techniques like catechisms, coat-rack mental hooks, guardrails for curricula, and age-wise ways to teach sin and discernment.

5 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 37min
Raising Gender Confident Kids Pt. 2
Dr. Kathy Koch, children's development expert and author, and Dr. Jeff Myers, ministry leader and author, explore raising gender-confident kids. They discuss responding with truth, curiosity, and respect. They unpack biological differences, complementary strengths, and how to teach honor between boys and girls. Practical phrases for schools and nurturing core needs for thriving children are also covered.

7 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 48min
Raising Gender Confident Kids, Pt. 1
Dr. Kathy Cook, child development and biblical parenting expert who helps families nurture identity and faith. Dr. Jeff Myers, Summit Ministries president and author on worldview and youth identity. They clarify gender terms and why confidence matters. They discuss stage-based identity development, technology’s role, how to have safe yet truthful conversations, and practical next steps for parents.

Dec 24, 2025 • 43min
When Your Path Isn't What You Expected
How do the unpredictable life events challenge and transform us? Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James speak with Sheila Walsh, an author, bible teacher, and speaker, whose life story revolves around overcoming adversity. Sheila discusses the importance of gratitude, forgiveness, and trust in God, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on how to instill these values in children. We'll also answer a listener's question about how to handle unfairness and fostering a household culture of gratitude and service. The Little Drummer Girl Holding On When You Want to Let Go Article: Raising Resilient Kids Send us your email or voicemail questions here! Support the show! If you enjoyed listening to Practice Makes Parent with Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, please give us your feedback.

Dec 17, 2025 • 42min
Growing Kindness: Teaching Kids to Volunteer
Have you ever thought about serving your community as a family? On this episode, Danny and Rebecca speak with Justin Knoop, the founder of Blessing Boys. Justin and his four sons perform free lawn care services for those in need, inspired by their mission work and personal transformation through faith. Justin explains the profound impact of these acts of service on both his family and the community, and we encourage you to explore this idea in your home. We talk about overcoming the awkwardness of helping strangers, instilling values of gratitude and service in children, and balancing energy and discipline in boys. The Crib To College Update shares research done on exposing children to various foods to help prevent food allergies later in life. The Hidden Garden: A Blessing Boys' Adventure Age & Stage Resources What Are Your Parenting Strengths? Find Out Here! Here Are Some Ideas To Serve As A Family Send us your email or voicemail questions here! Support the show! If you enjoyed listening to Practice Makes Parent with Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, please give us your feedback.

Dec 10, 2025 • 46min
Helping Kids Though The Tough Stuff
Darby Strickland, a seasoned counselor and author, shares her insights on guiding children through tough life transitions and emotional challenges. She highlights the vital role of allowing kids to experience their feelings, especially during changes like divorce or school moves. Darby discusses warning signs of stress in young children and teens, along with effective ways to engage with them through open conversation. Her children's books aim to help kids understand grief and trust in God, providing practical tools for parents to support their kids emotionally.

Dec 3, 2025 • 50min
Christmas Reflections For The Family
Merry Christmas from the entire Practice Makes Parent team! On this episode Danny and Rebecca discuss the joys and complexities of Christmas. They share personal stories, family traditions, and the challenges of maintaining a Christ-centered, less materialistic holiday. We touch on family dynamics, managing expectations, and the impact of grief during the holiday season with commentary from Mary Hunt, Kathy Lip, Greg and Erin Smalley, and Levi and Jenny Lesco. We also talk about how parents can promote charitable activities that will bless others, too. Sign Up For The Free Parenting eNewsletter Send us your email or voicemail questions here! Support the show! If you enjoyed listening to Practice Makes Parent with Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, please give us your feedback.

9 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 41min
Building A Spiritually Vibrant Home
In this discussion, Don Everts, a senior pastor and author of 'The Spiritually Vibrant Home,' shares insights from his research with Barna Group. He explores the significance of household imagery in representing the Kingdom of God. Don highlights the contrast between ancient households and modern families, advocating for communal living. He identifies key habits of vibrant homes: messy prayers, loud tables, and open doors, emphasizing that these practices foster genuine spiritual growth and connection among family members.


