Famalam: Christian Parenting Tips from Parents and Kids

What happens when a healthy, active family suddenly faces childhood cancer?In this powerful episode, Liz and Isaac Fell share their journey through childhood leukemia, reflecting on the shock of diagnosis, the long road of treatment, and the sustaining power of faith, prayer, and community support. From the first symptoms to hospital life, side effects, and recovery, they offer an honest account of parenting through a prolonged medical crisis.Liz and Isaac speak openly about how they communicated the diagnosis, processed fear and uncertainty, and leaned on their church community during the hardest moments. They reflect on how faith in God brought comfort and clarity, how milestones were celebrated even in hospital rooms, and how resilience grew through adversity. The conversation also explores sibling dynamics, emotional strain, baptism as a declaration of hope, and the shift in family priorities after treatment ended.This episode will encourage Christian parents facing serious illness to cherish small moments, seek community support, and trust that even in suffering, faith and resilience can deepen and sustain family life.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

Are family disagreements damaging — or can they actually shape children in healthy ways?In this episode, the Robinson family reflect on the reality of arguments at home, sharing personal stories from camping disasters to awkward public moments, and exploring how disagreements have shaped their family dynamic over the years. They discuss how children experience parental conflict, what they notice (even when parents think they don’t), and why healthy communication is essential in family life.The conversation highlights the importance of modelling conflict resolution, apologising sincerely, and talking openly about work stress and misunderstandings. They emphasise that arguments are a normal part of relationships — but the way they are handled can either create insecurity or build resilience, understanding, and trust.This episode will encourage Christian parents to approach disagreements with humility, love, and intentional communication, creating a home environment where conflict can be resolved peacefully and children learn from watching grace in action.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

How do parents navigate disagreements without undermining unity or security at home?In this episode, Gareth, Lizzy, and Toby are joined by Dave and Ro Wright for an honest conversation about the realities of parenting conflict, differing styles, and the tension that can arise when raising children together. They explore how shared values, faith, and open communication help couples navigate disagreements while maintaining stability and trust within the family.The discussion highlights how personal backgrounds shape parenting approaches, why apologising in front of children models healthy conflict resolution, and how forgiveness prevents resentment from taking root. They also reflect on the importance of mentorship, adaptability as children grow, and creating a secure environment where children can witness disagreement handled with maturity and grace.This episode will encourage Christian parents to approach conflict with humility, prioritise communication, and model resilience and forgiveness in ways that strengthen both marriage and family life.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

How do families navigate crisis in the young adult years — when independence is growing but support is still essential?In this episode, Gareth, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby reflect on the challenges of facing unexpected crises as young adults, exploring how faith, support networks, and honest communication shape resilience during difficult seasons. They share personal experiences of navigating uncertainty, discuss how crises often arrive without warning, and consider how these moments can deepen both character and faith.The conversation highlights the importance of prayer, trusted friendships, and strong family relationships when life feels unstable. They explore how parents can model healthy coping strategies, remain a non-anxious presence, and balance offering guidance while allowing young adults to make their own decisions. The episode also encourages young adults to initiate conversations about their struggles and seek help early rather than carrying burdens alone.This episode will encourage Christian parents and young adults to build open lines of communication, strengthen community connections, and see how crisis — though painful — can lead to growth, maturity, and deeper trust in God.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

How do families navigate crisis when children become teenagers — and help them process fear, pressure, and uncertainty?In this honest and personal episode, Gareth, Lizzy, and their children reflect on the crises they experienced during the teenage years, including the impact of COVID-19, parental work stress, spiking, and more. Together they explore how these experiences affected their mental wellbeing, relationships, and faith, and how family support, honest communication, and shared experiences helped them navigate difficult seasons.The family discuss how teenagers often carry the emotional weight of family stress while trying to protect one another, and why creating safe spaces for conversation is essential. They share practical ways teens can process difficult emotions, including journaling, creative outlets, friendships, and honest family dialogue. The episode also highlights how prayer, faith, and community support can bring comfort, perspective, and resilience during uncertain times.This conversation will encourage Christian parents to listen carefully, support their teenagers with empathy, and help them grow through crisis with stronger faith, emotional honesty, and deeper family connection.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

How do families navigate crisis when children are young — and keep faith, hope, and connection alive?In this episode, the Robinsons share personal stories of family crisis, including hospital emergencies, miscarriage, theft, and moving house, and reflect on how faith in Jesus, honest communication, and community helped them navigate these storms together.They explore how to talk with children about trauma, grief, and uncertainty, the importance of family storytelling and memory, and how shared experiences shape resilience and faith. The conversation highlights the role of church and community support, practical ways to help children process difficult events, and how scripture (including Psalm 91 and Romans 8:28) can ground families in hope.This episode will encourage Christian parents to be open about hardship, create space for questions, and help their children understand difficult experiences through faith, honesty, and shared rituals that build long-term family resilience.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

How do fathers intentionally raise adolescent boys in a culture that often leaves them to figure it out alone?In this episode, Gareth and Toby explore their father–son routine known as the Primal Path, a deliberate rhythm created to support the transition from boyhood to manhood through shared time, honest conversation, and faith-shaped parenting.Inspired by Jon Tyson’s book The Intentional Father, Gareth began the Primal Path when Toby turned 14, starting with simple walks and gradually developing into regular morning sessions focused on discipline, leadership, identity, and personal growth. Together they reflect on how intentional routines and shared experiences have strengthened their father–son relationship and created space for meaningful conversations about life and faith.This episode will encourage parents — especially fathers — to think creatively about how intentional parenting, consistent rhythms, and purposeful time together can shape teenage boys’ character, confidence, and maturity during the adolescent years.Referenced in this episode:Jon Tyson, The Intentional Father — a practical and faith-based guide to raising sons with purpose, clarity, and intentionality.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

Routines for pre-teens — how do parents establish healthy habits that stick?Gareth and Toby speak with Greg and Sophie Sharples about the importance of family routines for children approaching adolescence. They discuss how routines evolve as children grow, the challenges parents face in maintaining consistency, and practical strategies for mornings, mealtimes, and screen time. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of family connection through shared activities and meals, and the value of grace and adaptability when routines don’t go as planned.Greg and Sophie share personal reflections on what they would do differently, offering insight for parents seeking to help pre-teens develop responsibility, independence, and confidence while maintaining strong family bonds.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

Routines — we all need them, but how do families build rhythms that actually work?In this episode, Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy and Lucy dive into the importance of establishing healthy family routines and the impact these daily habits have on children’s character, responsibility, and long-term wellbeing. They explore how parents can model the behaviours they hope their children will adopt, why flexibility matters as kids grow, and how family meals, chores, and shared rhythms strengthen connection and communication.The conversation highlights the role of routines in helping children develop confidence, understand expectations, and contribute meaningfully to family life. Gareth and Lucy share practical ideas, personal reflections, and the small wins that keep routines moving forward — even when life gets messy.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

New Year, new start — but what does that really look like for families?Gareth, Lizzy, and Daisy are joined by author and speaker Jo Saxton to explore how parents can help children say goodbye to the past year and step into the New Year with honesty, hope, and faith. Together they reflect on family life, modelling repentance, growth, and change, and creating space for kids to talk openly about grief, loss, and transition.Jo shares thoughtful insight on the difference between New Year optimism and Christian hope, helping parents guide their kids through endings and beginnings without pressure to perform, but with grace, gratitude, and trust in God’s work in their lives.For more from Jo Saxton:Website: josaxton.comBooks: https://www.josaxton.com/booksInstagram / Threads: @josaxtonA Cup of Jo Newsletter / Substack: https://substack.com/@josaxtonAdditional Hello Goodbye resources:Website: https://www.leadstoriesmedia.com/hellogoodbyePodcast series: https://leadstoriespodcast.com (or wherever you get your podcasts)This episode will encourage Christian parents to think carefully about how their own habits, language, and faith practices shape how their children understand change, resilience, and spiritual growth.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this festive episode, the Robinson family talk openly about Christmas stress and managing expectations during the busy holiday season. They share personal reflections on their own Christmas experiences, including the joy of opening stockings, decorating cakes, and laughing together, as well as the pressures families often feel at this time of year.The conversation highlights the importance of family, joy, and shared traditions, encouraging listeners to focus on connection rather than perfection. This episode offers reassurance and practical perspective for families wanting to create meaningful, memory-making Christmas moments without the overwhelm.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode of the Famalam podcast, Gareth and Daisy interview Mal and Seannah Calladine on a Daddy–Daughter Double Date, exploring the significance of family traditions at Christmas. Together they discuss how traditions help shape family identity, support faith-based discipleship, and create lasting memories for children.The conversation explores ways to engage children in Christmas traditions, incorporate cultural elements, and balance spiritual and non-spiritual practices. Mal and Seannah share their own family traditions, the role of food and celebration, and how to keep traditions relevant as children grow older.This episode encourages families to create meaningful Christmas traditions that centre on the story of Jesus, foster unity, and strengthen family connections.Watch the Calladine Christmas Eve video via https://youtu.be/H99up4ulzPA?We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this special episode, all five members of the Robinson family are interviewed by Lydia Bennett from Premier Christian Radio. They discuss the background and inspiration for starting the Famalam podcast, sharing insights into family dynamics, Christian parenting, and how parents and kids can engage in meaningful dialogue together.The conversation highlights the importance of open communication within families, understanding family roles, and shared experiences that shape children and parents alike. If you enjoy behind-the-scenes insights, this episode gives a glimpse into the why and how of podcasting as a family.As ever, if you enjoy the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe to help support others in building their family life around Jesus.About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, Gareth and Daisy speak with Lindsay Melluish, family therapist, about the nuances of setting boundaries in parenting. They explore the fears parents face, discipline strategies, and the importance of communication and listening in fostering respect within family relationships.Lindsay shares practical tips for maintaining control and calm in the home, emphasizing flexibility, collaboration, and modeling behaviour. The conversation also highlights the role of logical consequences and consistent guidance in effective discipline.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby discuss their experiences of discipline, boundaries, and emotional growth throughout their childhood and teenage years. They reflect on the importance of clear communication, consistent consequences, and balancing discipline with connection.The conversation also highlights practical strategies for parents to set healthy boundaries, guide behaviour, and support emotional development in their children.Further Reading & Resources:More and More Parents Are Sending ‘Timeouts’ to the Naughty Corner — For Good – Daily TelegraphWe’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, Gareth interviews Rachel Gardner, youth leader, church leader, and mum, about ways to encourage children and young people to engage with church in meaningful and helpful ways.They explore the vital role young people play in the church community, the importance of belonging, role modeling, and spiritual practices, and how family life can support making church a welcoming space for all. This conversation offers practical guidance for parents seeking to help their children grow spiritually while building confidence and connection in faith communities.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, we explore the dynamics of church attendance and engagement within families. The conversation covers how to help children and young people connect with faith, the balance between church commitments and other activities, and the role of choice in developing a personal relationship with Jesus.We also discuss the importance of a positive church environment, strong role models, and honest conversations about faith and community. This episode offers practical guidance for parents seeking to support their children in growing spiritually while maintaining healthy family relationships.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, Gareth, Lizzy, and Lucy interview Phil and Dani Knox, exploring the significance of friendship for children and families. Phil, author of The Best of Friends: Choose Wisely, Care Well (IVP, 2023), shares insights on the qualities that make a good friend, the importance of modeling healthy friendships for children, and guidance on navigating the complexities of friendships as children grow into adolescence and adulthood.This conversation provides practical strategies for parents to help their kids develop life-giving friendships, make wise choices, and foster meaningful relationships that last.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby explore the dynamics of friendship within a family context. They share personal experiences and discuss what to look for in a good friend and how parents can encourage positive, life-giving friendships for their children.Highlights include the importance of choosing friends wisely, balancing Christian and non-Christian friendships, finding friends with shared interests, and navigating toxic relationships. This episode provides practical insights for raising socially confident, kind, and resilient kids.Further Reading & Resources:Helping Children Make Friends: What Parents Can Do by Claire McCarthy, MD – Harvard Health5 Tips to Help Your Child Make New Friends by Bekki Lindner – Scholastic ParentsWe’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam: Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect: Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations

In this episode, Gareth and Toby sit down with Dr. Roger Bretherton, Professor of Psychology, to explore how anxiety impacts families and can be transmitted from parents to children. They discuss the psychological differences between fear and anxiety, the role of attachment theory, and practical strategies for parents to help their children navigate stress while maintaining their own mental wellbeing.Learn how open communication and understanding family dynamics can reduce anxiety at home and help raise resilient, confident kids.We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please like, share, comment, and subscribe!About Famalam:Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, and real-life family dynamics.Follow & Connect:Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/famalam/donations