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...

The teen years can be challenging, and many parents have heard their teen say to them, “I hate you.” There’s no excuse for such an outburst, but sometimes parents do things that can make a teen feel that way. Here are some easy ways to make your teen “hate” you. First, make all of their decisions for them. And be sure to control everything they do. Second, constantly compare them to their friends. Ask, “Why can’t...

Regardless of your family’s convictions about how and when to date, one important thing to look at is their maturity. For instance, our kids should be willing to involve family in dating situations. Family interaction allows them to be “out in the open” with the relationship. But an unwillingness to do so may mean there’s something to hide. Being around family also reveals the character of your child and their...