If you are a parent, your child makes excuses.  Here’s a few excuses and what you can do.  First, “I’m not smart enough”.  When a child feels like an underachiever compared to their peers, they won’t even try. Help them discover their own strengths.  Talk through any insecurities they may have.  Second, “I’m scared.”  Don’t let your child be afraid to take risks.  Teach them to prepare. . .  then go for it. ...

A friend of mine with three teen boys once said they never get into fights.  Wow!  I can’t relate to that.  My mom and dad did a good job encouraging me and my two brothers to love one another, and we’re best friends today.  But we still had brotherly brawls and beat each other up on a few occasions when we were kids.  Now, I’m not advocating that, but sibling conflicts do occur.  So try not to get down about it. ...

One of my favorite parts of wedding celebrations is the father-daughter dance.  I’ve already enjoyed dancing with my three girls on various occasions but am looking forward to sharing this special moment with each of them when they get married. If you're a dad who has a daughter, don't wait until her wedding day to dance with her.  In fact, dance with her as often as you can. Why? First, dancing with your daughter...

Author C.S. Lewis said “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Integrity is not just something you do in your life, it’s something you believe in your heart.  It’s your internal GPS that always points to true north…that always prompts you to speak the truth and live out the truth.  Your kids learn more from what’s caught than taught.  So if you want to teach your children about...

My wife, Susan, and I know it’s really important to be on the same team, especially when it comes to raising our kids. But it’s one of those things that’s easier said than done. I’ll confess; we haven’t always been good teammates.  But we’re always working on it. You see, even if you and your spouse have already sat down and agreed on things like where your kids will go to school, what kind of movies they can...

All mothers and fathers want their children to honor them…to look up to them and hold them in high esteem. But parents who want to be honored by their kids must first honor their children. It’s amazing the way some parents dishonor their sons and daughters. I’ve seen mothers and fathers publicly belittle their kids with remarks like, “You are so stupid.” Or, “Can’t you do anything right?” I’ve seen how fathers...

Our kids are constantly evaluated on their abilities at school, in sports, in the arts and even at home. But what about you?  What grade would your kids give you as a parent?  Well, here’s a way to make an A every time.  Remember the 6 A’s of parenting.  First is Affirmation.  When your children are sharing their feelings or opinions, they want you to listen to them, identify with them and affirm them.  Second is...