We live in a “self-esteem” culture that has decided that if parents discipline their kids, if kids are held accountable for bad behavior, it hurts their self-esteem. In fact, just the opposite is true. Now, abusing or neglecting a child certainly crushes self-esteem and confidence. However, appropriate discipline or consequences develop self-esteem. Here are some principles to follow. Has one of the Four D’s been violated? (See January’s blog article) If so, determine to what degree this is so. This helps you assess whether discipline is needed. Fit the punishment to the crime. Lying is serious and warrants a [...]

Whether it’s ancient literature or modern media, mentors are seen everywhere.” In Star Wars, Luke has Ben Kenobi. In the Rocky films, Rocky Balboa has Mick. In both, older men teach young men how to deal with life, both challenging and encouraging them. In the TV show, “Suits,” Harvey mentors an up-and-coming attorney named Michael. Business classes teach the importance of finding and being a mentor. But where are the models of mothers and fathers mentoring their children? It unfortunately is all too common for parents to have the mindset of their responsibilities encompassing only their children’s physical needs of [...]

School, music lessons, sports practice, games, and tournaments. Family outings, extended family events, church. Work, friends, workouts, and somewhere, sleep. Busyness rules many people’s lives; some wear it like a badge of honor. Folks trying to outdo each other as to who is busier and who’s more exhausted. I get how busy life can be. My wife and I raised two kids who were very active in sports, church, and school and both of us worked full time. At one point, though, I found myself not too proud of my parenting in that I was simply living in reaction [...]