To be fair, technology has been a part of their everyday existence in ways we could never have imagined at their age. Don’t assume the worst about your tech-obsessed child. Here are some reasons behind their habits. First, kids use technology to avoid awkward situations and conversations. Being heads down on their phones is one way to avoid that feeling.  Second, kids feel F.O.M.O. anxiety these days which means...

Being a mom is perhaps the most difficult and most rewarding job on the planet. So what’s the key to doing it well? Here are some simple ways to be a great mom. First, be available. Make spending time with your kids a priority. Next, be loving. Look your children in the eyes and tell them you love them on a consistent basis. Third, be generous with praise. Affirm their character and their gifts as often as you...

Blending two families can be rewarding, but also very challenging. So it is important to start off right.  In his article Stepparenting Discipline Dos & Don’ts, author Ron Deal offers the following suggestions on how a stepparent can do just that. First, make sure your spouse, the biological parent, has your back. It is important to present a united front. Second, don’t change rules on your own. Be sure your...

Everywhere you turn, you’re reminded of what you’re doing wrong—you’re told you need to lead better, live better, love better. But today, I’d like to remind you good dads of all the things you’re doing right. So to the All Pro Dads out there, here are 4 things you should know. First, you are committed. Your dedication to your family is incredible—keep it up!  Second, you are a great example. Each and every day,...

All kids get into trouble at some point—that’s a given. Here are some common ways a child spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E and what you should do. The T in trouble is for tantrum. When your child throws a tantrum, instead of reacting, completely ignore them. They’ll quickly stop. The R in trouble is for Rebel. For a rebellious child, validate them and let them know that you love them no matter what. The O in trouble is for...

What lies does your teen believe? I’m Mark Merrill with today’s Family Minute. Most parents are concerned with the lies their teenagers are telling, but few parents consider the lies their teens are hearing. So here are some lies your teen might believe and how to combat them with truth. First, your teen believes no one understands them. So create a safe place where they’re comfortable sharing their feelings with...

All moms have the difficult, yet rewarding, job of raising kids. But today, I’d like to share with you how being a mom to boys can sometimes be harder. First, boys are less talkative.  While girls confidently share their feelings, boys tend to clam up. This can leave moms in the dark as to what’s going on in their sons’ lives. Second, boys feel pressured to be athletically talented. In a culture that idolizes...