As much as we love the freedom of summer, the reality of back-to-school is just around the corner. And while the thought of routine and structure might feel like a relief for some, it can be downright overwhelming for others—especially for kids!

The excitement of a new school year mixes with the inevitable stress that comes with new teachers, new routines, and perhaps even new schools. It’s natural to feel a little anxious. However, with the right mindset and tools, you can help your child transition smoothly and ensure they are emotionally prepared for what lies ahead.

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Teen rebellion. For many parents, the phrase conjures up eye-rolls, door slams, late-night worries, and power struggles.

Why do teens rebel? Most parenting experts explain teenage rebellion by brain development, hormonal chaos, and a need for independence. While these explanations are valid, they’re also incomplete.

What if teenage defiance isn’t just a behavioral problem to fix—but a creative and moral awakening?

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Here’s the thing: either you parent your children intentionally and teach them HOW to think, or society will raise them for you!

Life is full of decisions and requires constant choices. With every choice comes different consequences and results. As parents, it’s critical to give children plenty of critical thinking practice!

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Let’s be real: blending a family is challenging.

It’s unlike the movies where everyone magically bonds after a fun camping trip. Parenting blended families is more like bumping into invisible walls you didn’t know existed—emotional baggage, loyalty conflicts, parenting style differences, and a lot of moments that make you wonder, “Why does it have to be so hard!?”

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Have you ever muttered, “My toddler is driving me crazy?”

I remember raising a family and the ruckus and fast pace of keeping up with toddlers! They’re a match for any sprinter—or marathon runner! As your toddler asserts their will and autonomy, life can be challenging. 

Learn five effective ways to prevent temper tantrums and have more ease and harmony.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

As children grow into adulthood, the dynamics of parent-child relationships naturally evolve. What could be an amazing relationship is often fraught with hurtful exchanges and abrupt cutoffs.

It's crucial for parents to recognize—and respect—the boundaries that are needed with this transition. By respecting your adult child's autonomy, you are showing respect for their life choices and reinforcing your role as a supportive parent in their life.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

What is self-esteem, and how can we instill high self-esteem in our children even while we discipline them?

Parents often wonder about the impact of their parenting and parenting style on their children’s self-esteem. Do you know the most essential ingredient for building a child’s self-esteem?

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Parenting requires more than anyone knows before becoming a parent—or there would be a lot fewer parents! If you’re feeling hurt about how your adult child is treating you, that pain is real. To be rejected, disrespected, or cut off by your child is one of the most painful experiences of all.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

You put the oxygen mask on yourself before your children or others. We’ve all heard that dozens of times when traveling by plane.

But in practice—when a parent thinks his child needs help—what is their gut instinct? Yep, to help the child regardless if the parent is tired, stressed, or on the verge of burnout.

Self-care for parents is a challenge. Balancing home life with a career, socializing, finances, a marriage or relationship while ALSO raising kids makes being a parent a difficult juggling act.

How can parents find time for their own well-being amidst their hectic lives?

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Blended families are complex and challenging regardless of how wonderful the humans are or how well family members get along. Combining families requires love and patience on steroids!

Unfortunately, most parents underestimate the enormous stresses and massive bandwidth required to make it all work.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes