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...

There are a lot of difficult topics that parents and teens have to navigate through together. Talking about alcohol, drugs, pornography, premarital sex, and many other issues can be very uncomfortable for you and your teen. So, what should a parent do? First, share with them right up front that you realize this is difficult to talk about but it’s too important to ignore. Second, let them know that you love them no...

Susan and I often use texting to encourage our kids. Sure, there is no substitute for face-to-face conversations or talking on the phone, but texting is often an easy way to quickly communicate with our children. I want to inspire you to send one text message to each of your kids or grandkids each day over the next ten days. Here are a few ideas to help you get started. You can text, “You're an incredible young...

We all know the different types of moms. There are the feisty moms, the quiet moms, the controlling moms, and the relaxed moms. But there’s one thing that each of these moms has in common: The ability to be kind to their child. Though we often equate kindness with being weak, we must understand that being kind means using our words and actions to build up our children for good. So, here are 3 ways to be a kind...

When my daughters were young, it was easy to be their hero. All I had to do was carry them around the house on my shoulders or read them their favorite story. As my daughters have grown, so has my relationship with them. I’ve found more ways to be their hero. Here are a couple of things I do and you can too. First, tell her she is beautiful through your words and your actions. Second, take an interest in her life...

It’s natural for your child to get angry sometimes. But when their temper starts growing out of control, it may be time to pull in the reins. Here are 3 signs that your child may have an anger problem.  First, your child may have an anger problem if they seek out arguments even when everything is at peace. Second, it may be a problem if they are easily frustrated when learning something new. Finally, anger may be...

Pornography is a destructive and pervasive issue in our culture today. Ignoring it is simply not an option. So, here are the 3 B’s every parent or grandparent must know when talking to a son about pornography. First: Be Real. He needs to know that you know that the poison of pornography is out there. Second, Be Vulnerable. Most men have seen it, either on purpose or inadvertently. Third, Be United. Let him know...