How to Disciple Your Kids Through Every Stage of Parenting (Part 1 of 2)

In this first part of a two-part episode, Jim Daly and John Fuller welcome Rich Griffith, a pastor, professor, and single adoptive father, to discuss how parenting is a form of discipleship across every stage of a child's development. Griffith emphasizes that parenting should not be reactive but intentional, rooted in biblical principles and informed by developmental psychology. He highlights the importance of age-specific leadership models—such as servant leadership in infancy and path-goal leadership for children aged 6 to 12—arguing that parents should focus less on 'what do you want to do?' and more on 'who do you want to be?' to nurture character. The conversation also touches on the profound impact of trauma, the critical role of a father’s presence in child development (supported by scientific research on telomeres), and the power of simple, intentional practices like playing board games to build connection and emotional safety. Griffith shares personal stories of raising his adopted sons, underscoring the church’s role in providing a supportive community for children in need. The episode concludes with a call to action: listeners are encouraged to sign up for Focus on the Family’s free Age & Stage e-newsletter, which delivers tailored parenting guidance by developmental stage, and to support the ministry through a monthly or one-time donation to receive a copy of Griffith’s book, *Discipleship is Leadership, Stages of Generational Development*. The tone is hopeful, practical, and deeply rooted in faith, with a strong emphasis on growth, intentionality, and the transformative power of love and consistency in parenting.