Working with the Fallout of Gentle Parenting
Brian Warner addresses the cultural parenting method called “gentle parenting” and its consequences for Christian homes and schools. He begins by affirming that true Biblical gentleness is mandatory and scriptural but suggest that modern child psychology has changed the way we view gentleness. Warner shows how non-Biblical parenting, including approaches that promote collaboration with children instead of punishment and reward, has helped give rise to youth mental-health crises and emotional turbulence. He then offers four ways to combat gentle parenting in Anabaptist schools:
Home, churches, and schools must work together to promote Biblical parenting.
School boards should assist teachers in setting clear boundaries.
Children must learn to live in truth instead of following their feelings.
Authoriy figures must practice Biblical discipline.
In closing, Waner takes listeners to several Old Testament passages and reminds them of the blessings of following God’s ways in training and raising children.
“Working with the Fallout of Gentle Parenting” was presented by Brian Warner at Christian School Administration Institute (CSAI) 2026.
