One of the best things you can do as a parent is to strive to live a model life that is worthy for your child to follow. Here are 5 ways parents can be a role model for kids. First, model consistency.  Your child needs to see that you are the same person no matter who you are with. Second, model control over words. Words matter. Make sure the words that come out of your mouth toward your spouse, your child, and...

You’ve seen them in the stores, at Little League, or at ballet class.  Spoiled kids acting out...as their parents just stand there.  Here are some ways you might be spoiling your kids.  First, you do everything for them.  Instead, take time to teach them how to do the task themselves.  And let them know there will be consequences if they don’t follow through.  Second, your kids boss you around and talk...

If they are, remember your position.  You’re there to be an encourager, not to be overbearing.  No child wants to be embarrassed by a parent who’s screaming and yelling uncontrollably.  I was coaching my son’s baseball game a few years ago and I got frustrated with the umpire’s calls.  So, what did I do? I got mad…threw my hat on the ground and walked off the field. Youth sports can bring out the best…or the worst...

I appreciate a strong work ethic. But I also know it’s challenging to teach our kids the importance of work. Here are some things you can do to meet that challenge…10 Ways to Teach Work Ethic to Your Kids. First, create opportunities for them to work at a young age and do so often. Second, let your children do some of the  jobs at home such as cutting the grass or cleaning the bathrooms. Third, make sure your...

A friend of mine says a favorite memory of her father is how he would let her draw on his back. No, not with pens or markers, but with her finger. She would draw a picture and he would try to guess what it was. When my kids were growing up, I was the “tickle monster”—I chased the kids around the house, playfully tackled them to the ground, and got big laughs when the tickle monster attacked. You see, those are the...

Be a great coach.  Children who started out in Little League are playing in baseball’s All-Star game tonight.  Because of the encouragement and validation their coaches gave, they were able to make it to the big leagues.  Coaches want to win. But more importantly, a great coach wants kids to have fun, get exercise and learn good sportsmanship.  A child wants to be valuable to the team…to be an All-Star.  To make...

When teens are out of school they spend more time behind the wheel. That’s why they’re at greater risk during summer break. What can you do to help protect them?  Start by reminding them of the rules for driving and riding in a car. Insist that they wear their seatbelt. Let them know that driving is a privilege. Make sure they understand the dangers of speeding, drinking or texting while driving. Encourage them to...