The Power of Time

God has designed a parenting tool that’s often overlooked. It’s the tool of “Time.” But it’s not just any kind of time. It’s a strategic use of hang-out time between a parent and a child. Those times happen. We just need to…
Parenting Shifts

The Need for Parenting Shifts

Bobby is twelve years old. All of a sudden he’s resisting Mom at every turn. Her instructions lead to debates and arguing. Bobby used to be so pleasant and cooperative, but now the tension in their home is growing. Something needs to…
Positive Relationship

Two Steps for Building a Positive Relationship with Your Child

Emily is a devoted mother grappling with an unexpected challenge. Her once close bond with her 11-year-old son, Alex, is now strained, and the laughter and closeness that once echoed through their home has been replaced by negative interactions…

Can You Be a Friend to Your Child?

“I was surprised by my son’s words and I didn’t know how to respond to him,” explained Tara. She was confused. “I told my four-year-old, Austin, to take a Break. He wasn’t responding to my instructions and we had exchanged some…
Building Internal Motivation

Build Internal Motivation

Parents often tire of prodding kids to start moving. They ask the question, “How can I get my child to do things on his own without me having to push him along?” The answer is to build internal motivation, but that can be complicated,…

Is there More to Life Than Having Fun? What Should We Expect From a Teen?

“I just want to have fun.” That was Carl’s response when his dad challenged him about his poor performance at school. Trying to further understand his son’s thinking, Dad asked, “What makes a good day for you?” “When…

One Ear Always Open

Parents know that talking things out is a good solution to disagreements. They often want to simply build more relationship with their young people by talking more. But many parents say, “My kids don’t talk.” Interestingly enough,…
Family Lessons - Wisemen

Family Lessons We Learn from the Wise Men

The story of the wise men, also known as the Magi, who visited Jesus shortly after his birth is a familiar one to many people. While the details of their visit are not described in great detail in the Bible, there are a few key lessons…

Family Lessons We Learn from the Shepherds

The story of the shepherds at Christmas is told in the Bible in the book of Luke, chapter 2. The shepherds were out in the fields tending to their flocks at night when an angel appeared to them and announced that Jesus, the savior of the…

Suggestions for Making Christmas Meaningful This Year

As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations. The pressure to find the perfect gifts, decorate the house, and attend various events can sometimes overshadow the true meaning…