Whether your child is just becoming a tween or is a full-fledged teen, you most likely have noticed some attitude changes. Your sweet baby may not be so sweet any longer and you may feel on some days like you are navigating an emotional mine field. The emotions of a teenager can be compared to…
5 Things to Keep Telling Yourself While You Watch Your Child Play Sports
My kids are no longer playing youth sports. But two of them are coaching it, as well as my husband. Our youngest played her last college volleyball game over 7 years ago, so I’ve had some time to recover from being a competitive sports mom–or so I thought. While attending my son-in-law’s basketball games this…
How to Negotiate with Your Child
Are you are quick to protest, “No Way! I’m in charge!” and insist that you will never negotiate with your child because you are, after all, the parent? Before you dismiss the idea of negotiating with your child, ask yourself this: Does it seem like every time you say “No,” it turns into an argument…
If You Do These 3 Things, You Can Parent with Confidence
Being a parent is complicated. It is hard work. There are no one-size-fits-all answers because every family dynamic is different, every child is unique and every home faces its own special challenges. But at the same time, there are over-riding principles that can apply to every household, whether you are a single parent, a blended…
10 Commandments of Good Family Communication
Good family communication is more than just talking while someone else listens. Good communication is a skill that every single parent should develop because therein lies the key to family harmony and successful parenting. Here are my top 10 Good Communication Tips: Listen More; Talk Less. We have two ears and one mouth for a…
Leaving a Legacy: You have 2 choices
A legacy is an enduring impact that you make on those who outlive you. (Dave Ramsey) What comes to your mind when you think about leaving a legacy through your kids? I recently attended the funeral of a person who died in his old age, leaving his sons a thriving business that would keep them…
20 Questions to Ask Your Kids at Family Dinner
No matter how many times a week you have family dinner, make it a point to make the most of those moments. One of the ways to do that is to start by banning cell phones, and then to spark good conversation with some questions that will hopefully loosen everyone up and get them talking….
2 Keys to Strong Parenting in 2021
Is strong parenting a goal for you? The beginning of a new year is a great time to evaluate life–what is working for us? What is not working? What is working for you in your parenting? Where do you see the need for improvement? What areas do you want to work on? I encourage you…
The Real Reason That Your Children Need Boundaries
Although parents know that their children need boundaries, many of them may be setting limits for the wrong reason. Boundaries are not just there so that parents can have their space or their peace. Boundaries are not just needed so that chores and homework get done. Boundaries are not in place for the sole purpose…
3 Gifts Your Child Will Never OutGrow
I love giving gifts to my kids, and have to hold myself back at times from going overboard. I love to see the smile, the joy on their faces, even as adults when they open something that I know they want, or something that totally surprises them. I’ve got a couple of surprises up my…