Character training is not a simple process. To the contrary, the moral education of children in today’s social environment comes with many more diverse challenges than in the past generations, especially for those who embrace the virtues and values contained … Read More
Here in the United States, we are getting back in the swing of things now that school has started. New rhythms and routines bring the perfect opportunity for re-examining our priorities. We all have different family sizes and schedules, but as … Read More
I’ve been experimenting with the simplicity and power of a one–degree change. Here’s how it works in principle: When I see a major family issue that needs my attention, instead of defaulting to frozen inaction, I hold the whole … Read More
Where do your parenting ideas and beliefs come from? How do you forge your convictions? These days there is plenty of information available to help raise children. The Internet, books, classes and support groups — there’s something for everyone … Read More
The best playtimes are delightfully relational and often educational! Children are naturals at playing, but sometimes mom and dad are wise to prompt their play in constructive directions by pre-gathering ideas and supplies and creating a time and space. … Read More
We have longed for these relaxing summer days, but from a child’s perspective, they can seem to lag. When we hear “Mommy, I’m bored!” or better yet, before we hear it, it’s wise to prepare some activities that direct … Read More
We live in a world where it seems everything and everyone is connected. A decision made in Moscow, Washington, or Beijing can have a ripple effect on the rest of the world for years to come. This is called the … Read More
There is a utopian theory suggesting mankind can engineer the perfect socialized child and that scary thought usually has a preschool component attached to it. The very nature of children wars against the notion that a formalized preschool experience can … Read More
In part 1 of the “The Family Comparison Game,” I shared about my taxing and toxic family comparisons. I’ve been guilty of comparing myself and my parenting, my children’s character and education – even our spiritual gifts – with others. … Read More
There was a time when I lived the Family Comparison Game. Here’s how I played: There was an imaginary line between families who were successful and those who needed some work. My goal was to keep our family bobbing … Read More
Summer has officially set in here at our house. The kids are counting on long summer days – swimming, camping, working in the garden, fires on the patio – all the things that make summer so special. I can feel … Read More
