The family is the first school of virtue.  Even in our increasingly toxic culture, parents can still have the inside track in their children’s development because parents are their children’s first and most important moral teachers. That premise only applies though if parents choose to use their moral influence. Remember, children do not acquire strong [...]

Parenting strategies that help kids act right when we’re not around and nurture moral intelligence Every parent’s first concern is the same: “Is my baby healthy?” This question is one that doctors usually can answer. Another big question is far more difficult: “Will my child become a good and decent human being?” Most doctors would [...]

Parenting advice to curb irresponsibility, excuses and “blame games” and boost trustworthiness, accountability and kid responsibility Any of these sound familiar? “I forgot.” “Take care of this for me.” “It wasn’t my fault.” “I did some of it, but I left it on the bus.” “I don’t know where I put it.” They are statements [...]

Parenting advice to raise morally courageous kids who can stand up for their beliefs!  This article appeared in the Gifted Education Communicator magazine, and I’m delighted to say I’ll be keynoting their conference on Gifted Children in Palm Springs on February 26 on this very topic. If you’re in that audience, please come up and say [...]

Parenting advice to reduce kid greed and reopen generosity “But I’ve got to have a clown and a pony at my birthday. That’s what Tiffany had.” “Sure, I have six pairs but the more shoes the better!” “Grandma only gave me fifty dollars for an A!” Have you noticed that we seem to have a [...]