In this episode of Dates, Mates, and Babies with the Vallottons, Jason and Lauren share wisdom from their unique experience raising both adult children and toddlers. Drawing from years of hands-on parenting, they dive into the intentional strategies that shape children into healthy, resilient adults—especially in a world that's vastly different from the one they grew up in.

Topics covered include:

• Why the goal is raising adults, not just managing children
• The importance of skills like delayed gratification, perseverance, and planning
• How to build family identity through phrases like “Vallottons tell the truth” and “Vallottons are helpers”
• Why today’s parenting landscape is nothing like past generations—and what to do about it
• How to establish healthy boundaries: what decisions your child makes on their own vs. with your input
• A new way to view trust: as a developmental process, not just a reflection of character
• Why certain "non-negotiables" (like music or swim lessons) are actually gifts you give your child
• Creating rhythms and structure while your kids are still moldable—because character is built early

Whether you're in the toddler trenches or navigating teenage independence, this conversation offers practical tools and timeless vision for parenting with the end in mind.

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For information on the Marriage Intensive and other resources, go to jasonandlaurenvallotton.com !

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