It's not some high-tech gadget you can pick up at a store… it's a sense of belonging. So how can you instill that in your kids? At home, let your kids know they're important to you, and to your family. Affirm their positive character traits, encourage their unique gifts, and let them know their thoughts and opinions matter. Then, when you're out in public, praise them to others – and proudly claim them: "This is...

Last night, as I stood at the kitchen sink, my son tried to push me aside, without saying a word. Well, rather than just correct him, my wife and I decided to employ a little role-play. As I stood at the sink again, she played the role of my son and said, "Dad, will you please excuse me? I'd like to wash my hands." I said, "Sure, come on in." and then moved out of the way. You see, telling our kids how to do...

We're conditioned to react negatively to the word "no." We don't like to hear it… and we don't like to say it. We thrive on saying "Yes" to ourselves—to our own wants and desires—to a new car, the latest gadget, an expensive vacation. So why are we surprised when our kids expect instant gratification. If we can't say "No" to ourselves, how will they learn to say "No" to themselves and realize the rewards of...

By the time boys are 4 to 6 years old, they often feel the need for a masculine role model. And that need doesn't change as boys grow older. If your son's father is not in the picture, another adult male you trust needs to be involved in his life. You might find a man to mentor your son through a mentoring program. Or, you might have some male relatives, friends, or neighbors who would be good role models for...

If you really want to know, ask a single parent. Their job is never-ending. Their work is never done. Day after day they carry the load … alone. No wonder they often feel like they have the whole world on their shoulders. So how can we help single moms or dads? Start with the little things. The next time you're washing your car, offer to wash theirs too. Drop off dinner, or watch their children for the evening, so...

December 7th marks the day in 1941 when more than 2,000 Americans died in the surprise raid by the Japanese on the U.S. Pacific fleet. It was the first time an enemy attack was carried out on U.S. soil. But, of course, it wasn't the last. The few surviving veterans of Pearl Harbor have a saying: "Remember Pearl Harbor… keep America alert." So talk to your children about the importance of protecting our country,...

One way you can get involved is by starting an All Pro Dad's Day or iMOM Morning chapter at your child's school. These once-a-month breakfast gatherings for parents and their kids are fun and informative. After breakfast, there's lively discussion on a topic that's relevant to school age children, and plenty of interaction. It's a great way for kids to connect with their mom or dad in a meaningful way, and to...