Susan and I often use texting to encourage our kids. Sure, there is no substitute for face-to-face conversations or talking on the phone, but texting is often an easy way to quickly communicate with our children. I want to inspire you to send one text message to each of your kids or grandkids each day over the next ten days. Here are a few ideas to help you get started. You can text, “You're an incredible young...

We all know the different types of moms. There are the feisty moms, the quiet moms, the controlling moms, and the relaxed moms. But there’s one thing that each of these moms has in common: The ability to be kind to their child. Though we often equate kindness with being weak, we must understand that being kind means using our words and actions to build up our children for good. So, here are 3 ways to be a kind...

When my daughters were young, it was easy to be their hero. All I had to do was carry them around the house on my shoulders or read them their favorite story. As my daughters have grown, so has my relationship with them. I’ve found more ways to be their hero. Here are a couple of things I do and you can too. First, tell her she is beautiful through your words and your actions. Second, take an interest in her life...

We often associate the heart with love, but practically speaking, the heart sustains life. It needs all four chambers working right.  My wife, Susan, and I believe there are four chambers in every wife’s heart that fill her with life and love. The first chamber of a wife’s heart is to be understood, even when you don’t agree on everything. Your good listening skills help her see you’re trying to understand her,...

It’s natural for your child to get angry sometimes. But when their temper starts growing out of control, it may be time to pull in the reins. Here are 3 signs that your child may have an anger problem.  First, your child may have an anger problem if they seek out arguments even when everything is at peace. Second, it may be a problem if they are easily frustrated when learning something new. Finally, anger may be...

Pornography is a destructive and pervasive issue in our culture today. Ignoring it is simply not an option. So, here are the 3 B’s every parent or grandparent must know when talking to a son about pornography. First: Be Real. He needs to know that you know that the poison of pornography is out there. Second, Be Vulnerable. Most men have seen it, either on purpose or inadvertently. Third, Be United. Let him know...

Every good relationship is built upon honesty. So when we notice our child struggling to tell the truth, we know it’s time to take action. However, Dr. Scott Turansky explains that “common discipline techniques don’t quite address the problem” of lying. Instead, here are some specific ways to encourage honesty. First, be sure to teach your child the difference between playing make-believe and lying. It’s important...