266. Why We Encourage Our Kids to Wait to Date

Crystal Paine Show

This week’s episode dives into a topic that many of you have asked about - dating, especially as it relates to our kids. Jesse and I previously shared our general dating guidelines, but as some of our children have grown and started engaging in relationships, we have really had to put those principles into practice in real-time.

I recently touched on our approach to dating on Instagram, and it sparked some lively (and controversial) conversations, so join Jesse and I today as we dive even deeper into our experiences and how we have adjusted our guidance while respecting our kids' privacy and autonomy.

Jesse and I share our philosophy that dating should be intentional and mindful, and we have encouraged our kids to view dating as a way to get to know someone with the potential for a serious, long-term relationship, rather than just a casual activity. We discuss how we've balanced setting boundaries without being overly controlling, allowing our kids to make their own decisions while we support them through their journeys, having found that this approach not only respects their autonomy but also helps them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.

We also touch upon the critical role of observing a potential partner's character over time and in various situations. Seeing how someone reacts in different scenarios, such as in competitive sports or when things don't go their way, can reveal a lot about their true nature, and this can be very important for making informed decisions about whether to pursue a deeper relationship.

Be sure to also tune in to hear some quick personal updates, such as Father’s Day having been a bit of a rollercoaster, as we spent it in Mississippi for Silas's baseball tournament! I also share some interesting tidbits from our recent Olympic trials binge-watching and the amusing challenge of setting up our new coffee maker without reading the instructions! Don't forget to also check out a new freebie on our site with 60 quick meal ideas to avoid takeout - perfect for busy families!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Jesse and I are further discussing how we approach dating with our kids.

[2:13] - Hear all about Jesse's exciting Father's Day!

[5:34] - I discuss an emergency with a feeding tube button for David, noting the mismatch in our emergency kit.

[6:11] - Jesse clarifies that we had different-sized feeding tube buttons, leading to complications with the emergency replacement.

[8:44] - I express gratitude for a nurse's help so that we could avoid an emergency room stay.

[11:08] - I further reflect on a chaotic Father’s Day, including spilled drinks, unruly kids, and a new coffee maker gift.

[13:26] - We have enjoyed watching the Olympic trials with our daughter Kierstyn, who is excited about various sports, especially gymnastics.

[15:19] - Hear some listener feedback which includes a request for the audiobook library link.

[16:52] - I share a listener's observation about the use of "sofa" versus "couch" in an earlier episode, noting it as an interesting regional preference.

[19:28] - I have been reading and loving Natalie Runion's book The House That Jesus Built.

[21:08] - Tune in for an exciting announcement about a freebie with 60 quick meal ideas to replace takeout!

[22:37] - Shifting gears toward today's main topic, we begin to discuss our views on teen dating, advocating for encouraging serious relationships and eventual marriage.

[24:19] - It's important to start conversations about boundaries, respect for bodies and for others, and marriage early to guide children through dating as they grow older.

[27:20] - I further explain our position toward dating ultimately for marriage.

[31:00] - Jesse reflects on our daughters appreciating the intentional approach to dating with marriage in mind.

[33:31] - It's crucial to observe potential partners in various contexts to gauge their true character before committing to a relationship.

[35:10] - The other biggest thing is praying daily for our children's relationships, seeking God's guidance for clear direction.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

The Crystal Paine Show - 137. Dating vs. Courtship: Our honest thoughts

The Crystal Paine Show - 215. Hope and Healing from Church Hurt & Disappointment

Everyday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library Cards

Books

The House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God’s Original Blueprint by Natalie Runion

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

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