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Pastor Tee's avatar

I saw this on Netflix and dismissed it. After reading this, I will review since I work with teen boys.

One thing is missing from this discussion is developing a culture of trust and transparency in the home when kids are young. Using techniques is valuable but parents practicing a common ethos with other adults to be imitated by your kids is important. Chris, I guess this would go under your 'long-term parenting approaches'.

When my kids were young, we did put boundaries in place. But the core influence on them was how we lived. I can't claim perfect success but as adults, they prioritize their offline relationships more.

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Chris McKenna's avatar

You make a super important point, Pastor Tee. "How we lived" is something pretty tangible to a child, I suspect. A family "culture" they can't see, but they can feel it. And probably feel when it's missing. I appreciate the insight and I'd enjoy hearing what you think after going through it.

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Cheryl Gilliver's avatar

Thank you so much for the clear points on what to do. And the encouragement! That really has been missing from all the other commentary I've read about Adolescence. Thank you!

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Chris McKenna's avatar

I appreciate your comment!

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Matt Bell's avatar

Thank you Chris. Clear and hopeful guidance for parents in the midst of really challenging waters.

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k stella errans's avatar

yes yes yes yes yes and yes.

and also, boys must be taught that violence isn't the answer!

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Chris McKenna's avatar

Absolutely.

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Juanita's avatar

"Teenagers, no matter how grown up they appear, still require a high level of parenting. That includes our sons. Don’t throw in the towel. Keep showing up and dig in! Our teens still need us."

This words are just the encouragement I needed today. Sometimes it's easy to stay paralized in fear or overwhelmed by the amount of things coming at us, but thank you for sharing some actionable steps.

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Chris McKenna's avatar

You're welcome. I typed those words as much for me as anyone. Glad they are helpful!

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Erik Steigen's avatar

I really enjoyed your take, Chris. I wrote about Adolescence also with the parents in mind. I’d love to hear what you and your readers think: https://reelsandriffs.substack.com/p/adolescence-on-netflix-is-so-real

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Kevin Scalise's avatar

@ https://bradhuddleston.com is a great resource of solid Christian information on the subject of digital addiction and the effects on children. He is a great speaker and tells parents like it is. I so appreciate PYE and the others who have to do actual DIRTY work to inform parents how to keep our kids safe with devices.

Many blessings to you all, and thank you!!

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Ash G's avatar

Thank you Chris always, for your incredible guidance

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Chris McKenna's avatar

Hey, Ashleigh! Thank you and all the best.

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Pam Crosby's avatar

Pastor Tee, I would love to hear some of your top 'long-term parenting approaches'.

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Pam Crosby's avatar

I would love to hear some of your top 'long-term parenting approaches'.

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The Informed Perspective's avatar

and adults need to get involved in their community again - any contribution no matter how small will make a difference in creating a third space which is so vital for young and old alike.

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