Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd encourage parents to view teen dating as a training ground, not just something to restrict or fear. Mark emphasizes that healthy, age-appropriate dating — guided by clear expectations and strong communication — can help teens learn respect, boundaries and what godly relationships look like. Not every relationship with the opposite sex has to be sexual, and parents play a key role by modeling healthy marriages and staying engaged with their teen. When handled well, dating can help teens grow toward wisdom and future commitment.

Mark has designed many different resources to help you as you navigate parenting. To explore his podcasts, blogs, books, conferences and more, please visit parentingtodaysteens.org

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.