Now that school is in full swing again, you may notice that your child is starting to experience some pressure.  Children often feel socially and emotionally stressed through school.  As parents, we should look for ways to help them learn how to cope with stress in healthy ways.  Set a good example in how you handle stress.  If your children are fearful about something, listen to their concerns, and share how you...

To determine whether you should just insulate or completely isolate your child from potential temptation, bad influences, or pain, here’s a quick checklist.  First, what’s the risk factor? When your child asks to do something, you should first and foremost identify whether this activity poses a real threat to your son or daughter.  Second, has your child earned your trust? Have they consistently done what you’ve...

My wife, Susan, and I have five children and we’ve learned – sometimes the hard way – a few back-to-school lessons along the way.  Our kids have experienced every type of school – public school. . . private school. . . and homeschool.  And we have experienced every type of learner.  So we’ve taken all that experience and put it in a free Back-to-School ebook that will help make every year count!  Learn how to...

Okay, the school year is pretty much underway.  So do you know the answer to the following questions: who are your kids hanging out with?  Who do they spend the most time with?  Who do they talk to on the phone the most?  Who are the three people they text the most?  Who are their Facebook friends? An involved parent will know the answers to those questions.  And studies show that involved parents can help keep...

Over the years, I’ve worked hard to teach my two sons, now 18 and 17, the most important things in life.  Here are the 8 things every father should teach his son.  First, be a gentleman. A firm handshake combined with looking the other person in the eye carries with it respect and strength. Opening a car door for a woman, standing up at the table when she is seated is what a gentleman does as well. Second, honor...

We want to be liked. We want to fit in. We want to be invited. We want to do what others are doing. Well, so do our children. And they’re especially vulnerable during their impressionable teen years – a time when they are seeking their identity as a person. So we need to show our children, by example, how to stand against what is wrong and stand for what is right… no matter what others may think or say. If we do...

It’s a simple equation— A more involved parent = a better student, a better school, and a better community.  That's where Family First's school breakfast programs come in. All Pro Dad's Days and iMOM Mornings bring moms and dads to school once a month for a time of bonding, encouragement, and fun.  And they're easy to start—we provide everything you need! So make sure your kids aren’t missing out.  Start your own...