The secret is to help them establish core convictions in their hearts… convictions that will define the way they look at themselves and relate to others. Family expert Dr. Tim Kimmel identifies four things our kids need to form deep convictions about: family, friends, faith, and freedom. Knowing what they are committed to will help your children focus less on themselves and more on others.  So, talk to your kids...

Most families don't have a plan for dealing with anger. They just continue on, hoping things will get better. When families don't resolve their anger, however, they just keep trying to start over. Trying again is helpful, but we each need to have a bigger plan if we want negative patterns or anger to change. Five Steps toward an Anger-Management Plan There are five essential steps in helping children deal...

Author Joe White suggests seven ways to motivate our children in whatever they do.  First, have realistic expectations of your child.  Not every child will make straight A’s or start on their sports team.  Second, be a model of motivation.  Your child needs to see you loving your work, exercising, and celebrating goals achieved.  Third, make sure your child breaks a mental and physical “sweat.”  Don’t over protect...

In the midst of gaining great friendships, your child may also find some frenemies along the way. A frenemy is someone who says they’re your friend but who routinely does things to hurt your feelings or stir-up trouble. Disentangling your child from the tentacles of a hurtful “friend” may require a bit of maneuvering on your part. Here are two ways to handle your child’s frenemy. First, help your child understand...

Each day, our kids are experiencing new things and making new mistakes.  All the while, these moments are shaping and growing them.  As parents, we’re called to come alongside our children and lift them up as they grow.  Here are 5 ways encourage your kids.  First, let them make some decisions.  Seek out opportunities for your child make their own decisions regarding various situations.  After they’ve made a good...

The temperature… a little warmer, the grass… a little greener. The crack of the bat is in the air.  It’s that time of year again – Opening Day of baseball. Guys, remember when you were a child and you played in your first Little League game? Now, you’re grown-up. But just for today, you can relive your childhood dream of hitting that grand slam… and you can do it with your children. Take your kids to a game at the...

Just like anything else in life, parenting will bring out strengths and weaknesses in you.  For example, you may be great at spending tons of time with your kids, yet struggle to communicate well with them.  So, to help you honestly evaluate your relationship with your child, here are 15 questions to ask them.  First, ask your child, “How do you know I love you?”  Next, ask, “Do I spend enough time with you?”...