When our kids are young, we map out in our minds what we want for them. We want them to be successful in school, in work, and in relationships. But many unexpected things will occur in their lives. Our kids will fail, face rejection, get sick, and make poor choices. A key to parenting is to expect the unexpected when raising your kids. Here are 3 reasons why. First, it helps you avoid overreacting. Expecting...
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Once when my wife and I were about to go out, my daughter said, “But Mom, I want you to stay here!” My wife replied, “No honey. I’m going on a date with Daddy.” Wow, I felt like a million bucks. My wife was protecting her time with me and making us a priority. Our kids need to know how much we love them…that they are a priority to us as well…but, that they are not the center of the universe. If they think they...
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Most families don't have a plan for dealing with anger. They just continue on, hoping things will get better. When families don't resolve their anger, however, they just keep trying to start over. Trying again is helpful, but we each need to have a bigger plan if we want negative patterns or anger to change.
Five Steps toward an Anger-Management Plan
There are five essential steps in helping children deal...
Author Joe White suggests seven ways to motivate our children in whatever they do. First, have realistic expectations of your child. Not every child will make straight A’s or start on their sports team. Second, be a model of motivation. Your child needs to see you loving your work, exercising, and celebrating goals achieved. Third, make sure your child breaks a mental and physical “sweat.” Don’t over protect...
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In the midst of gaining great friendships, your child may also find some frenemies along the way. A frenemy is someone who says they’re your friend but who routinely does things to hurt your feelings or stir-up trouble. Disentangling your child from the tentacles of a hurtful “friend” may require a bit of maneuvering on your part. Here are two ways to handle your child’s frenemy. First, help your child understand...
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Each day, our kids are experiencing new things and making new mistakes. All the while, these moments are shaping and growing them. As parents, we’re called to come alongside our children and lift them up as they grow. Here are 5 ways encourage your kids. First, let them make some decisions. Seek out opportunities for your child make their own decisions regarding various situations. After they’ve made a good...
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The temperature… a little warmer, the grass… a little greener. The crack of the bat is in the air. It’s that time of year again – Opening Day of baseball. Guys, remember when you were a child and you played in your first Little League game? Now, you’re grown-up. But just for today, you can relive your childhood dream of hitting that grand slam… and you can do it with your children. Take your kids to a game at the...
