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Why Expecting the Unexpected is Important in Parenting

When our kids are young, we map out in our minds what we want for them.  We want them to be successful in school, in work, and in relationships.  But many unexpected things will occur in their lives.  Our kids will fail, face rejection, get sick, and make poor choices.  A key to parenting is to expect the unexpected when raising your kids.  Here are 3 reasons why. First, it helps you avoid overreacting.  Expecting...
Jun 20, 2024 / General

News Alert: Your Kids Are Not the Center of the Universe

Once when my wife and I were about to go out, my daughter said, “But Mom, I want you to stay here!”  My wife replied, “No honey.  I’m going on a date with Daddy.”  Wow, I felt like a million bucks. My wife was protecting her time with me and making us a priority. Our kids need to know how much we love them…that they are a priority to us as well…but, that they are not the center of the universe.  If they think they...
Jun 13, 2024 / General

Want Respectful Kids? Do This One Thing

There’s no doubt about it: Everyone wants respectful kids. But more often than not, children’s attitudes and behaviors are far from respectful. To combat this, here are 3 ways to train your children to be respectful. First, understand the problem. Focus on how your child treats you—with both their words and their attitude—instead of getting sidetracked by the specific incident at hand. Second, come up with a plan....
May 17, 2024 / General

7 C's for Communicating with Teens

After raising 5 teenagers, my wife, Susan, and I have learned a few keys about communication. So here are 7 C’s for communicating with teens. First, be calm. Rather than go into a conversation angry or upset, be sure to keep calm. This creates an environment for you and your teen to talk without the pressure of emotions. Second, be confident. Teenagers can be very persuasive. But it’s important to stand your...
May 15, 2024 / General

Hurt People Hurt People

Behind the bratty child may be a workaholic parent. Behind the gossiping man or woman might be an emotionally removed spouse. And behind the alcoholic son may be an abusive or alcoholic father.  We know the truth all too well: Hurt people hurt people. So how can you keep your hurts from leading you to hurt others? Here are 3 ways to break the cycle. First, explore old wounds. Admit you’ve been hurt and try to...
May 10, 2024 / General

Questions All Boys Need Answered

Growing up, your son will ask some significant questions. Instead of allowing the world to provide answers, it’s up to you to give your son the truth. Here are 3 questions your son will ask himself and how you can answer. First, he’ll ask: What’s my purpose? Your job is to help identify his gifts and guide him towards the answer. Second, your son will ask: Do I have what it takes? Only you can answer this question...
May 03, 2024 / General

Parent Pressure

No, not peer pressure… parent pressure.  You know, pressure to allow your child to do things that other parents are letting their kids do… watch movies, listen to music, and wear clothes that are inappropriate for your child.  The right decision for your child is usually the road not taken by many.  It’s sometimes a hard and lonely road for a parent, but one that is much more likely to lead to a good life for your...
Apr 24, 2024 / General

FAMILY FIRST PROGRAMS

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The Family Minute is a daily radio feature that offers everyday advice on marriage, parenting, and family relationships.

Mark Merrill

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