In this episode, hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan, founders of the Messy Family Project and parents of 10 children, discuss the importance of family life and parenting. They express their passion for strengthening family bonds and helping parents fulfill their sacred calling.

The episode features a special guest, Kimberly Hahn, a renowned speaker and author known for her dedication to promoting strong families. With her profound insights and passion for family life, she joins the discussion to share valuable perspectives on building a resilient and faithful family unit.

The overarching message of this episode centers on the transformative power of Catholic families. Mike, Alicia, and Kimberly emphasize that by nurturing children in virtue, cultivating a relationship with Christ, and living intentionally as a family, parents play a crucial role in renewing the world and shaping a brighter future for society.

Key Takeaways:

• Protect young children from negative cultural influences and be intentional in instilling positive values.
• Recognize the importance of family as a training ground for children to grow and mature before engaging with the world.
• Embrace the unique family culture and identity while seeking guidance from the Church and saints.
• Be intentional in parenting roles, form children in faith, and guide them towards a path of Godly living.
• Utilize the rich teachings of the Catholic Church on family life to build strong and impactful families that positively influence society.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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In this episode of "Family: Guide to Parenthood," hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan from the Messy Family Project explore the crucial topic of forgiveness in family life. They stress the significance of forgiveness on the journey to holiness and how it impacts relationships with spouses and children. The episode delves into personal experiences and insights from guests Susan and Urby Potvin, who share their unique story of creating a family with diverse personalities and backgrounds.

Susan and Urby Potvin, open up about their extraordinary journey as adoptive parents. They raised their adopted son in a Catholic home with strong Christian support, but he struggled with addiction and made grave mistakes, causing immense pain and challenges for the family. Despite the difficulties, the Potvins exemplify the power of forgiveness, faith, and perseverance in navigating through their profound journey.

The episode underscores that forgiveness is a choice, not merely an emotion. It involves canceling a debt and freeing oneself from the burden of hurt and resentment. Moreover, forgiveness does not necessarily mean immediate reconciliation but sets the foundation for healing and growth in family relationships. As parents and children embrace forgiveness and strive for holiness, they pave the way for a more loving, compassionate, and resilient family unit.

Key Takeaways:

• Forgiveness is a conscious decision to cancel a debt and free oneself from hurt, fostering emotional healing in family relationships.
• Faith and hope play a crucial role in the forgiveness process, allowing individuals to trust in God's grace and the possibility of transformation.
• Forgiveness and reconciliation are distinct concepts, with forgiveness being a single-person act, while reconciliation involves both parties.
• It is vital to have healthy boundaries in forgiveness, ensuring one's dignity and mental well-being are respected in the process.
• Forgiveness is a lifelong practice within the family, teaching children the value of accountability, humility, and self-forgiveness while nurturing strong bonds among family members.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

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Hosts Alicia and Mike Hernon delve into the crucial topic of training children in virtue. They are joined by a special guest, Sister John Paul Maher, a Dominican sister of Mary Mother of the Eucharist, who brings her extensive experience and wisdom to the discussion. They emphasize the practical aspects of forming children in virtue, going beyond theoretical concepts to provide actionable strategies for parents. They highlight the importance of parents modeling virtue and consistency in their behavior as a powerful way to influence their children's character development.

Sister John Paul Maher O.P., Principal of St. Michael's School, Ohio, USA, is a Dominican sister belonging to the religious order of Mary Mother of the Eucharist. With her background and experience, she provides valuable guidance to parents, emphasizing the importance of partnership between educators and parents in shaping children's character and promoting virtuous living. 

They acknowledge the challenges of parenting and the uniqueness of each child's personality and stage of development. Sister John Paul emphasizes the importance of educators and parents working together in a partnership, providing support and guidance to parents as they navigate the journey of forming children in virtue. The conversation centers around the need for parents to educate themselves about virtues and the human person, and to foster a culture of prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit in the process.

Key Takeaways:

• Parents play a vital role in forming children in virtue by consistently modeling virtuous behavior themselves.
• Parents should take the initiative to educate themselves about virtues; by understanding what virtues are and how they can be practiced, parents can effectively guide their children.
• Educators and parents should work together in a partnership to support children's virtue formation; this ensures consistency in teaching and reinforces the values being instilled both at school and at home.
• As each child is unique and goes through different stages of development, parents must be willing to adjust their approaches and strategies to cater to their child's individual needs.
• Parents are encouraged to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit and rely on God's grace in their parenting journey. 

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Unity between parents is crucial for successfully navigating the various challenges of family life, such as educational choices, finances, and discipline. Hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon of the Messy Family Project delve into the importance of unity and teamwork in parenting, showcasing the value of being a united force for the children. Together with Paco and Inez Gavrilides, they discuss the importance of shared decision-making, avoiding the "good cop, bad cop" dynamic, and maintaining open communication.

Paco and Inez Gavrilidis are Evangelists and a couple who have dedicated themselves to serving the church. They have served in various capacities in Parish Ministry at Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit. They highlight the blessing and occasional struggles of parenting together, including the need for understanding and emotional support. They encourage couples to come before the Lord together, seeking guidance and showing vulnerability. They discuss the power of prayer in resolving conflicts, making decisions, and asking for forgiveness when mistakes are made. They stress the importance of staying united as a couple and continually seeking God's grace in their parenting journey.

The overarching message is the importance of parenting as a team and the significance of unity between parents. When parents work together, communicate effectively, and support each other emotionally, they create a stable and loving environment for their children. They stress that unity and confidence in each other as parents surpass the reliance on specific parenting methods or programs. They also highlight the role of prayer in seeking guidance, resolving conflicts, and asking for forgiveness. Ultimately, the episode encourages parents to prioritize unity, communication, and prayer in order to navigate the challenges of parenting and raise a thriving family.

Key Takeaways:

• Parenting as a team is crucial for navigating the challenges of family life.
• Unity between parents is more important than following a specific parenting method or program.
• Communication is key for successful teamwork in parenting, sharing struggles, and making decisions together.
• Supporting each other emotionally and taking turns in responsibilities strengthens the team dynamic.
• Praying together as a couple can help find guidance, resolve conflicts, and seek forgiveness when mistakes are made.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Attachment between parents and children is crucial for the child's emotional well-being and overall development. The bond formed during the early stages of a child's life has lifelong implications for their ability to form healthy relationships. The episode offers insights from the hosts, Mike and Alicia Hernon, and Dr. Matthew Breuninger, a psychology expert, on navigating challenges and creating a safe environment for children's development.

Dr. Matthew Breuninger, a professor of psychology at Franciscan University, specializes in attachment between parents and children. His research emphasizes the importance of consistent and empathic care in fostering secure attachments. He provides guidance to parents on cultivating secure attachments, contributing to the understanding of parent-child dynamics.

Intentional attachment is essential for a child's emotional well-being, healthy development, and future relationships. Parents are encouraged to prioritize creating a safe and regulated environment that fosters secure attachments, laying a strong foundation for their lifelong growth and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• Attachment between parents and children, especially during infancy and toddlerhood, is of utmost importance. The bond formed during this early stage has lifelong implications for the child's ability to form healthy relationships.
• Parents are encouraged to be intentional in their interactions with their babies and toddlers. The way parents hold, talk to, and form relationships with their children play a vital role in shaping their ability to form healthy relationships throughout their lives.
• Numerous studies indicate that the parent-child relationship has a significant impact on various aspects of a child's life, including their academic and physical growth. A strong attachment provides a foundation for a child's overall well-being.
• There are many challenges faced by parents, particularly in large families, in maintaining attachment with each child. It highlights the importance of quality time and individual attention to ensure that each child feels loved and attended to.
• Secure attachment can be fostered through consistent and empathic care. Even if insecure attachment patterns were present in childhood, it is possible to change and regain secure attachments through intentional efforts.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

The Scripture has a significant role in shaping the identity and faith of both parents and children. Hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan delve into the topic: Bible and the family. They speak about the importance of introducing children to the Bible and embracing its teachings within the context of family life. They explore the significance of Scripture in nurturing a deep relationship with God and guiding children on their spiritual journey with Matthew Leonard.

Matthew Leonard is an author, speaker, and teacher who has dedicated himself to guiding others on their journey of deepening their relationship with God. With his expertise and passion, Matthew leads the way in helping individuals and families embrace the richness of Scripture in their lives. His insights and practical ideas provide a roadmap for incorporating the Word of God into daily routines and family dynamics. Through his work, Matthew Leonard inspires and empowers others to discover the transformative power of the Bible and live out their faith with authenticity and joy.

Parents, as primary educators in teaching their children about the Bible, help foster a relationship with God; they have to prioritize reading and praying with scripture, creating a space where the Word of God becomes a central part of family life. Families have to embrace the Bible as their story and actively engage with its teachings, finding meaning, guidance, and inspiration in the Word of God.

Key Takeaways:

• Parents have a sacred calling to teach their children about the Bible and foster a relationship with God.
• Scripture should have a central place within the home, surrounded by devotions and practices that help children understand and appreciate the Word of God.
• Parents should lead by example and prioritize their own prayer and study of the Bible, showing their children the importance of engaging with scripture.
• The Bible is not just a book but a Divine text that prepares us for the encounter with God in the Mass. Attending Mass regularly and participating in the Liturgy enhances the understanding and experience of scripture.
• The Bible is not just a collection of stories but a narrative that connects us to our identity as Catholics. Children should be made aware of their place within this story and the significance of scripture in their lives.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

One of the challenges of parenting in today's world is introducing the Word of God to our children. As the primary messengers of the gospel to their children, parents not only have the responsibility to teach the faith but also possess the greatest capacity to influence their kids' spiritual journey. Bob and Kate Lesnefsky, founders of Vagabond Missions, join Alicia and Mike Hernon of the Messy Family Project to talk about ‘Evangelizing Your Kids’ 

The Lesnefskys bring a personal perspective to the discussion, sharing their own struggles and questions about how to effectively pass on their faith to their daughters. Bob and Kate emphasize the importance of modeling a genuine relationship with God and creating a home environment where prayer and faith are integrated into daily life. They highlight the significance of conversations and open communication with teenagers, recognizing that each child is unique and requires individualized approaches to evangelization. 

Parents have a vital role in evangelizing their children and leading them into a saving relationship with God. It is imperative for parents to model a genuine and vibrant relationship with God, to create an environment of prayer and faith in the home, and to engage in open conversations with their children about spiritual matters. Parents can confidently and lovingly guide their children toward a deeper understanding and experience of the Gospel.

Key Takeaways:

• Parents are the primary evangelists for their children and have the greatest influence on bringing them into a relationship with God. 
• Parents model a genuine and vibrant relationship with God; by living out their faith and demonstrating love, prayer, and holiness, parents can effectively evangelize their children and inspire them to embrace the faith.
• Creating an environment where kids feel comfortable discussing their faith, asking questions, and sharing their struggles is crucial. 
• Different children have different needs and respond to various approaches; there is no one-size-fits-all model for evangelization.
• Parents must not lose hope or be discouraged if their children encounter challenges or temporarily stray from their faith. Trusting in God's faithfulness and continuing to pray, love, and guide their children with patience and understanding are keys to fostering a lifelong relationship with God.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

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Parents often struggle to regulate technology use and are concerned about negative influences and inappropriate content that children may encounter. Hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon delve into the complex relationship between families and technology. Together with Dr. Eugene Gan, they speak about the challenges parents face in managing technology, particularly smartphones, within their households. While technology presents challenges, it also holds tremendous opportunities for growth and positive impact.

The guest speaker, Dr. Eugene Gan, a professor of communications and Fine Arts, joins the conversation and stresses the importance of using technology with virtue. He emphasizes the need to teach children how to use technology in a way that glorifies God. Dr. Gan offers an insight into media and technology, viewing them as gifts from God. He explores the theological and practical aspects of technology, highlighting its power and potential. 

Parents have a crucial role in guiding their children to use technology with virtue and in a way that aligns with their values and faith. The episode emphasizes the importance of discernment, balance, and proactive engagement with technology, rather than outright banning or avoiding it. By modeling good technology habits, setting guidelines, and fostering open conversations, families can navigate the digital landscape responsibly and harness the potential of technology to inspire truth and lead toward a virtuous life.

Key Takeaways:

• Technology is a challenging aspect of parenting in today's world, but completely banning it may not be the best solution.
• Parents have the responsibility to teach their children how to use technology with virtue and in a way that glorifies God.
• There is a need for discernment and balance when it comes to technology use in families.
• Media and technology can be powerful tools when used properly, pointing us toward truth and inspiring us toward Heaven.
• Parents should model good technology habits, be mindful of content, and engage in conversations with their children about responsible technology use.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan, along with guest Maggie Radzik, engage in a discussion about the challenges and strategies of parenting toddlers. With their wealth of experience as parents of 10 children, they emphasize the importance of recognizing the unique developmental stages and raw personalities of toddlers. They address common frustrations and questions from other parents regarding tantrums and communication difficulties.

Maggie Radzik, a veteran Montessori teacher and formation leader, has a deep understanding of child development and a passion for guiding parents through the challenges of raising toddlers. With her background in catechesis and her dedication to helping children learn about the Lord, Maggie Radzik offers a unique perspective on parenting. Her practical knowledge and compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for parents seeking to navigate the complexities of raising strong-willed toddlers.

Together, they provide practical strategies, such as observation, offering choices, creating an environment that encourages independence and purposeful work, and cultivating a patient and understanding approach to tantrums. The episode highlights the significance of nurturing a child's development during the toddler years, which sets the foundation for their future growth and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• Toddlers have unique needs and characteristics, such as raw personality and exuberant energy, that require understanding and effective parenting strategies.
• Observation is crucial in recognizing and responding to a toddler's needs, allowing parents to better understand their behaviors and avoid unnecessary conflicts.
• Offering choices and providing opportunities for independence empowers toddlers and contribute to their development and well-being.
• Creating an environment that encourages purposeful work and engages the child's mind and hands is essential for their growth and learning.
• A patient and understanding approach to tantrums, focusing on addressing the underlying needs and emotions, can foster a positive parent-child relationship and help toddlers navigate challenging situations.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Children are born with a natural desire for God and it is the parents' duty to cultivate and shepherd their spiritual journey. Alicia and Mike Hernon emphasize the importance of recognizing that a child's relationship with God may look different from that of adults. Parents should allow children to develop their own unique spirituality and refrain from imposing their own expectations.

Monica Stoutz shares her experience and insights into nurturing the spiritual lives of children. As a catechist, she has worked with children in their preparation for First Communion, using methods based on scripture and the teachings of Maria Montessori. Her approach is rooted in understanding child development and providing children with the tools and language to engage in prayer and spirituality. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to have their own responses, wonder, and exploration of faith. 

This episode highlights the need for parents to be intentional and supportive in developing their children's spiritual lives while recognizing the importance of allowing them to explore and respond to God in their own way.

Key Takeaways:

• Respect individuality: Recognize that each child has a unique spirituality and allow their relationship with God to develop naturally, without imposing adult expectations.
• Nurturing environment: Create a space at home that fosters the child's relationship with God, such as a small altar or designated area for prayer and reflection.
• Model desired behavior: Set an example for your child by exhibiting the behavior you want them to follow, particularly during Mass or other religious activities.
• Age-appropriate participation: Understand that young children may struggle to remain still during prayer and Mass. Encourage their active participation and engagement within reasonable limits.
• Start at home: Incorporate spirituality into daily family life by praying together, discussing faith, and making faith a part of everyday conversations. Family mealtime can be an excellent opportunity for spiritual connection.

Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level.

Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/