Middle School

The purpose for having a phone contract is to make sure everyone in the family is on the same page and in agreement with cell phone expectations. The goals are to encourage relationship, conversation, and responsibility with and without devices. “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” – …

The 7 Traits of Effective Parenting is a simple framework of seven powerful traits that will help you grow in your parenting journey, and be the most effective parent you can be.

There are many ways you can connect with your loved ones, and those tools are right at your fingertips!

Give your grandkids shared experiences to help them build stronger bonds with one another.

Have the courage to talk about sex and respect with your sons.

Rules are important, but connecting with your teen is essential.

The point of these family adventures is the together time, but don’t underestimate the break in routine that kids need, especially as they get older. A change of scenery can help kids process life and new ideas, and maybe discover something new about themselves.

Sibling conflict is unavoidable. It’s just part of life with young humans whose “life-giving skills are still developing,” Cartmell explains. But that conflict can have benefits.

Focus on the Family has created Alive to Thrive to provide help and hope for parents and others who interact regularly with young people. This free resource provides practical suggestions for preventing and responding to suicidal thoughts and actions.

Take some time to learn about the personalities of people around you. The goal is for your family to take the frustration that can come from different personalities and turn it into understanding how different personalities can benefit each other.