Wait, Are We "Gentle Parenting?" with Jon Fogel

Penn and I have joked about gentle parenting on this podcast more than once. As Gen X parents, it always sounded a little... soft. So when parenting coach Jon Fogel joined us, we figured we'd have a lively debate. Instead, about halfway through the conversation, we looked at each other and thought, "Wait... have we been gentle parenting this whole time?" Also, what is gentle parenting? (Apologies in advance for the many references to Penn getting hit in the balls by a pool noodle.)

Jon helped us untangle why so much of what gets labeled "gentle parenting" online isn't really gentle parenting at all, and why kids actually learn better through connection than fear. We even put Jon through a round of our "Hill You'll Die On" game to find out where he stands on everything from pajamas at school and homework to smartphones and curfews.

Whether you're raising toddlers, teenagers, or just trying to recover from how you were parented yourself, this conversation might make you rethink a few things. It definitely did for us. We love to hear from you! Leave us a message at 323-364-3929 or write the show at podcast@theholdernessfamily.com. (Also send us your weird summer jobs!) You can also watch our podcast on YouTube.

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