Do you have high expectations of yourself when it comes to parenting? Many of us try to make decisions for our child’s welfare before they’re even born. Especially as new parents, we want to make the best choices for their upbringing and decisions in life. This naturally brings about many questions as they’re growing up, such…
Children love to play games with their friends, but many times fun and laughter turn into resentment and sad feelings. What might appear as pettiness to us is actually a very upsetting situation in the making. Occasionally, when children’s feelings are hurt deeply enough, they choose to shut down communication with their friends, turning inward rather than finding a way to resolve…
There is so much information out there on how to parent—or how not to! The question we often ask ourselves is, “Are we doing enough?” I would dare say we’re doing too much. In my work with older teens (ages 16-19) and young adults (ages 20-26), I would say we could all use some assistance when it comes to…
The sultry glances were brief, but often. With fluttering eyelashes and a slightly demure smile, there was no mistaking her intentions—to capture the attention of that handsome guy sitting nearby. A normal display of romancing? Absolutely! A common age for such conquest? Sometimes. The flirtatious female in the scenario above was only in fourth grade. Yes, true story. I…
Easter is a fun celebration with kids! Most young families (and their children) are involved in a frenzy of exciting activities including family lunches, egg hunts, and baskets full of candy. So, it’s no wonder why children enjoy the festivities surrounding this springtime holiday. Besides all the entertaining events with family and friends, Christian parents…
Do you ever wonder why some couples have better communication skills and intimacy from day one of their marriage, while others seem to crater within the first year? Or why some of your married friends make it through difficult times better than other couples you know? Most Americans want to be married at some point…
I had a moment recently with one of my teenagers, but it wasn’t exactly one of those heart-warming talks that you see between parent and child on the Hallmark™ channel. We had this particular “convo” (aka “conversation” for those of us over 30) because there were some patterns I was seeing her demonstrate that I wanted…
Have you lost that loving feeling when it comes to the relationship with your spouse? As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I meet a fair amount of people who feel they no longer have the ability to “date their spouse.” As they allow me to step into their relational constructs, I usually find a common thread.…
Christmastime with extended family can be challenging! And if you have a relative (or two, or three) that you consider more naughty than nice, it’s often hard to have a “holly jolly Christmas.” However, Christ does call us to do what sometimes seems impossible to do. In Luke 6:27 Jesus says: “Love your enemies, do good to those who…
Most of us think of the holidays as the best time of the year! However, when a family experiences the fracture of divorce in their household, this season can easily become a flurry of emotions that are not so merry or bright. 6 tips for single-parenting this Christmas season: 1. Be flexible Blended families have more complicated situations. Obviously, you’re now split between…