How can we be more intentional about doing things together that will strengthen relational bonds and family ties in the future? I know it’s important to make good memories, but it’s tough to find time for it with so much going on in day-to-day life. Do you have any suggestions or advice?
Parenting Q&A
How can we help our adolescent daughter, who is depressed and angry as a result of our recent relocation to a new town and a new school? The move has taken a heavy toll on all of our kids, but our teenager is particularly upset. She won’t talk about anything but our old home, and …
What’s your perspective on the celebration of Christmas? How do you understand the meaning of the holiday, and what are your feelings about some of the more “fanciful” symbols and traditions, including Santa Claus, that have become such a big part of it?
How can I teach my children good manners? It seems etiquette has become a thing of the past, both for children and adults. This is something I’m determined to instill in my kids, but I can see that it won’t be easy. How do I teach them to treat people respectfully when the rest of …
How soon should a parent start responding to behavioral problems in the early childhood years? I’m especially interested in hearing your thoughts on the issue of timing – when do you think I should begin disciplining my child? As a new mom I could use some guidance and advice in this area.
How can we get our infant child to sleep through the night? At what point should we start trying to establish a more regular and predictable sleeping routine?
How do we know when it’s time to start encouraging our child to use the toilet? And when he’s ready, what can we do to help the whole process go smoothly?
How can we stop our four-year-old from stealing? It seems like everywhere we go – church, stores, museums, friends’ houses – he walks out with something that doesn’t belong to him. I have a feeling that he’s just being irresponsible-that he puts things in his pocket and then forgets about them. My husband and I have talked …
What should I do if I fear my teenage son may be too withdrawn? When he was younger we thought it was just a phase and assumed he would gain more confidence as he matured and interacted more with his peers. So far those expectations haven’t panned out. He doesn’t seem to have any interest …
How do I answer my child’s difficult questions about her absent father? I broke up with her dad almost eight years ago — when she was just a baby — and she has never met him. But lately she’s been asking things like, “Do you still love Daddy?” and “Why doesn’t he love me? ” …
Can you help us understand why our 5-year-old son sometimes goes out of control for no obvious reason? He was adopted from a background of trauma and abuse, but we’ve done everything in our power to make him feel loved and secure. Still, he’s developed serious behavioral problems. We’re treating him for ADHD, but so …
How can we encourage our overweight teenager to shed his excess pounds and shift his lifestyle and eating habits in a more healthy direction?
Are there any fool-proof ways to help an adolescent steer clear of self-destructive thoughts and feelings? Don’t misunderstand – I’m not asking because I sense any immediate danger. My daughter seems fine right now, but after hearing so much in the media about teen suicide I want to do whatever I can to promote positive mental …
How can I know if my teenager is developing suicidal tendencies or a self-destructive mindset? I’m asking because I’m afraid that my teenager may be moving in this direction. Are there any warning signs to be aware of? Does depression always include a risk of suicide?
What should I say to my daughter whose boyfriend is pressuring her to have an abortion after getting her pregnant? She’s looking to me for support and guidance, but I’m so upset that I don’t know what to tell her.
What are some things I can do to discourage my teen from engaging in “sexting”? I’ve become increasingly worried as I’ve read about the rise in this kind of activity among kids. I’m also aware that the consequences can be extremely serious. At the same time, I’m not sure that there’s anything I can do …
Should we tell our children that their mom had an affair?
How can we help our preschooler overcome his fears and get to sleep at night after watching a disturbing “kids’ movie” we got from the library? He’s been hysterical at bedtime ever since viewing this film and keeps us up half the night because he won’t go to sleep alone. What can we do about …
Can you offer any guidance to parents whose child has recently become a member of a cult? Our family has been completely blindsided by this. We have no clue what our options are or what we ought to do, practically, legally, and otherwise. We really need your help!
How can I stop my child from swearing and using “dirty words?” It’s a bad habit he’s developed, and I’ve confronted him about this several times. But the problem only seems to be getting worse. I’m frustrated. Do you have any advice for me?
