Listen today as Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss the reality that Christmas often brings conflict rather than peace, especially in families with struggling teens. They emphasize that parents must rise above the chaos by extending grace, offering love when it’s least deserved and avoiding the pressure to create a “perfect” holiday. Instead of withholding gifts or withdrawing emotionally, they encourage parents to affirm the relationship, set healthy boundaries and give teens space to regroup when expectations feel overwhelming. Ultimately, Christmas is an opportunity to model God’s grace — loving and moving toward our kids even in the midst of conflict.

In a tough spot with your teen? Join Mark in Texas at one of his Families In Crisis Conferences. Visit familycrisisretreat.com to see our schedule and register!

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.