Movies have a way of making puppy love seem sweet and innocent.  But when our kids begin dating in real life, it becomes a whole different ball game.  So how involved should dads be in their child’s dating life?  Well, here are some things to know about the person your child is dating.  First, learn the basics.  For safety reasons, you should know their cell number, the type of car they drive, their parents’...

You see your son every day.  But how often do you spend uninterrupted one-on-one time with him?  Love your son well by planning out a date for just the two of you.  Here are some great dates for moms and sons.  First, play a sport together.  Most boys love being active.  Even if you’re not the best athlete, be a good sport by going to the batting cages or basketball courts with him.  Second, chow down.  Surprise...

Our daughters are under attack.  Everywhere they turn, culture is telling them that they aren’t good enough.  As fathers, we have an obligation to instill confidence, along with humility, into our daughters.  So here are some tips for raising daughters to be confident.  First, truly listen to her.  Listen more, lecture less. She needs to know she has your ear, you really understand her, and that you are there for...

Divorce is never easy on anyone, but teens often channel their emotions into destructive behaviors. A recent survey from Pediatrics journal shows that teens of divorcing families are twice as likely to use drugs or alcohol. They are also more likely to act out through physical fighting, property damage, and stealing. Others may experience depression and anxiety. But the good news is that parental support can help...

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...

Webster’s Dictionary says a legacy is “something handed down from one who has gone before.”  Fathers, we will eventually be that “one who has gone before”—we will leave a legacy…good or bad and how we live will influence our children and descendants for generations. Sure what you say to your kids is important, but what they see in you is equally important. So be a man of character, conviction, and passion. As...

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...