I recently thought about some filters our words should have to pass through before they come out of our mouths.  If they don’t make it through all of these 5 filters, they probably should never be spoken. Filter number 1. Do I have good motives? In other words, is my reason for saying it beneficial to the listener or only for selfish purposes? Filter number 2. Does it build up? Words are not neutral. They either...

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...

Women need to be loved, but men need to be respected.  It’s a two-way street.  Even though respecting your husband may go against every fiber of your being . . . the benefits to your marriage will far outweigh the costs.  How do you begin?  First, let your husband know you appreciate him.  Thank him for protecting and providing for your family.  Second, honor your husband in front of others.  When you are out with...

In today’s world, women have an unrealistic bar set for them in the beauty department.  No one can measure up – not even the air-brushed models.  But, if you believe your wife is beautiful, she will be.  Nothing is more important to a woman than what she sees in the mirror of her husband’s opinion.  So, what can you do?  First, tell her she’s beautiful and mean it.  She’ll feel transformed.  Second, make sure she...

Gone are the lazy, hazy days of summer.  As a parent, you may be breathing a sigh of relief, but don’t think your vacation starts just because your kids’ vacation is over.  In a few weeks, parent/teacher conferences will take place.  Take this opportunity to open the lines of communication with your child’s teacher.  Here are 7 questions you need to ask your child’s teacher.  First, is my child performing up to...

We all know that men and women often communicate in very different ways. So to find out how not to communicate with your wife, I decided to ask my own wife, Susan, for some helpful tips.  First, she told me never to approach your wife with attack intensity.  She explained that when communicating with a forceful attitude rather than a soft demeanor, your wife will become defensive.  Second, she warned that a...