Strategies

Make Christmas special for your loved ones. Family traditions are so important at Christmas.

20-Dec-2018

As Trevye in Fiddler on the roof said, "Traditions, traditions they tell me who I am (and pointing to the sky) and who He is!’ Her..

What things really matter?

13-Dec-2018

When the captain of Flight 1549, Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger, said, “Brace for impact,” Ric Elias realized that his ..

What is the source of your pain?

06-Dec-2018

Maybe you have experienced the pain of cancer, losing a job, financial problems, addiction or divorce. I have stuttered most of my life. I fo..

What's your reaction when your child shares disturbing information?

29-Nov-2018

Though it may be difficult to suppress an immediate, emotional reaction based on what you hear, try to resist a quick answer. Reacting too qui..

Time to ‘spice up’ intimacy with our spouse.

22-Nov-2018

We all know how important regular tune-ups are for cars. I’m sure we have all been surprised by the brakes action or engine ‘get up and ..

7 Ways to zap up your marriage

15-Nov-2018

I’ve come to the conclusion that more often than not, we find ourselves in a busy season of life. There is always a new assignment at work, ..

3 Ways Boys Love to Connect with Their Dads

08-Nov-2018

Boys and dads have a special relationship. Sons cherish the emotional and physical affection that their fathers give. And statistically, childre..

3 Ways Girls Love to Connect with Their Dads

01-Nov-2018

Daughters naturally crave connection with their fathers, and they especially cherish emotional and physical affection from their fathers. In fact, acc..

For many years I was passionate about working with teenagers

25-Oct-2018

For many years I was passionate about working with teenagers, I was most passionate about my own. I had three and desired to instill in them the value..

Give Mum a break during the Spring holidays.

18-Oct-2018

October school holidays put a lot of pressure on mums, so let’s rally around to give her a break Dad, dig into your ‘man strength’..

Spring Holiday Fun

11-Oct-2018

By the second week of the spring holidays it’s not unusual for families to be stuck inside and tensions steadily rising! So change direction &nd..

5 things our wives need

04-Oct-2018

Here is a great tune up for us husbands from Markmerrill.com Men must know that: 1. Women want to feel loved. Many women feel insecu..

5 Ways to Make Your Wife Adore You

27-Sep-2018

Can you remember back to the days when dating your spouse wasn’t a chore… when the smallest thing you said or joke you made caused her to..

The 5 bad habits we Dads need to deal with:

20-Sep-2018

1. Getting Drunk. The more time a dad spends with his kids, the more they grow, mature, and develop. Fathers who are drunk spend less time int..

Man of Integrity

13-Sep-2018

In the 1925 U.S. Open, famed golfer, Bobby Jones pulled a one-iron out of his bag and addressed the ball. As he set up to hit out of the rough grass, ..

Here are some great ‘no blame’ phrases for parents to use.

06-Sep-2018

• In our family we say please and thanks. • In our family we smile when we make a request. • In our family we ..

Techno Limits

30-Aug-2018

Set limits on technology for yourself and your kids. Technology is their servant; they are not its slave. In early childhood, limit..

Here are some good questions to challenge yourself as a Dad

23-Aug-2018

(It is so important that children know their dad loves them no matter what!) Here are the questions: * Do they know they are loved wh..

How do you tell your teenager something they don't want to hear?

16-Aug-2018

Just remember the four Cs. 1. Check your Emotions Before you speak to your teen make sure your state of mind is calm rather than emotional..

I love you because....

09-Aug-2018

They say the greatest thing a man can do is: to love the mother of his children. I was talking to a psychologist who specialized in marr..

Parenting Tricky Kids

02-Aug-2018

Famous SAS Leader, General Sir Peter de la Billiere’s advice works for parenting tricky kids from his book ‘Looking for trouble”. ..

5 Signs You are a Man of Conviction

26-Jul-2018

A few months ago it looked like I was going to cross Cook Strait on the ferry. As I get sea sick I was not looking forward to it. That horrible fe..

The 3 Happiest People in the World

19-Jul-2018

Why is it that some people seemingly thrive in nearly every relationship, while others seem to struggle? And why is it that the people who thrive rela..

5 minutes that could save your relationships

05-Jul-2018

We entered the office as angry as we’ve ever been with each other. Catherine and I had been going to the counsellor together for a few months an..

How to Break Family Curses

05-Jul-2018

We all have them— negative memories, character traits, and struggles from our upbringing and our past. It may be a difficulty saying the w..

The Power of fathering

28-Jun-2018

I recently heard that my adult son took part in a major debate at Melbourne University on the subject of leadership and its potential use for good or ..

10 things to teach your son to do on a first date

21-Jun-2018

1. Bring her flowers. All women are beautiful and this is a symbol of acknowledgment. 2. Be on time. A man is a leader and a provider. Thi..

Pearls Before Breakfast

14-Jun-2018

One morning in April 2007 during the morning rush hour, a young man entered L’Enfant Plaza Station in the Washington D.C. subway. There was noth..

Do you know what kind of story your kids love to hear?

07-Jun-2018

Your kids love stories about them. Tell your son about the night he was born. Tell your daughter about the day she took her first st..

Encourage your children to take smart risks:

31-May-2018

Some children are very fearful about taking risks. Their biggest fear may be to make a mistake or be growled at. Encourage your children to..

Absent dads = Dumber schools

24-May-2018

One of the most interesting school names in all of America is The Dummer Academy in Massachusetts. Named after Gov. William Dummer in 1763, the school..

Dealing with bullying

17-May-2018

Bullying in school is on the rise. Bullying can take many forms: from malicious teasing, name-calling, making threats, spreading rumours, sen..

You are smarter than your teenager….true!

10-May-2018

The frontal lobes on their brains are not fully formed, so teenagers assess risks haphazardly. For their brain to fully mature, they need adults who w..

3 ways to fall back in love with your wife

03-May-2018

In relationships we have to remember it’s the small things that are important too. Small things in our marriage can make a big diffe..

Modern dad’s job description

26-Apr-2018

Today’s tragedy is that the “tyranny of the urgent” overwhelms men with a maelstrom of meetings, deadlines and commitments which ..

Autumn Holiday Fun

19-Apr-2018

By the second week of the winter holidays it’s not unusual for families to be stuck inside and tensions steadily rising! So change direction &nd..

A Few Hot Tips for Parenting Alone.

12-Apr-2018

There is no doubt that parenting alone can be a challenge: So here are a few hot tips to help: • Be kind to yourself. List what needs..

The best conversation starters with teenagers

05-Apr-2018

One of the most exciting parts of my job is being able to meet fathers all over the country. Yet time and time again, they often say to me, “Do..

Struggling to get your kids to do their household jobs well?

28-Mar-2018

One of the keys to being successful in your career is asking yourself what excellence in your job looks like. It's the same with our kids an..

How words spoken into a child’s mind ‘wire’ them for the future.

22-Mar-2018

You may remember the messages your parents handed on to you. The negative ones may have stuck with you and still affect your view of yourself, such as..

In a nation such as NZ it is astonishing....

15-Mar-2018

In a nation such as NZ it is astonishing to see how many mental health problems there are amongst teenagers. We Dads can keep the communication..

3 Reasons Your Kids Need You

08-Mar-2018

Let me share with you an article by Psychiatrist Mark Merrill Several years ago, one of my favorite movies to watch with my kids was Wreck-It ..

5 things not to say to your kids

01-Mar-2018

The old saying goes something like this: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Well, ditch it; the a..

Do you wonder if your teenager is posed by an alien?

22-Feb-2018

Author Quentin Crisp said, “The young always have the same problem - how to rebel and conform at the same time. They have now solved this ..

Take time to share your love with your wife

14-Feb-2018

If your wife said “Oh! Valentine's Day is a commercial gimmick.” And you did nothing, you could pay for it the rest of the year! ..

Spending Money

08-Feb-2018

It's very important that we teach our children how to handle money. I think it's important that they don't get paid for the chores they do aro..

How is the new year going?

01-Feb-2018

Research says only 8% of us keep our new year resolutions by the third month of the new year. We all hope for a better year in 2018. I&rsquo..

How is the new year going?

01-Feb-2018

Research says only 8% of us keep our new year resolutions by the third month of the new year. We all hope for a better year in 2018. I’m sur..

Remember family traditions are so important at Christmas.

21-Dec-2017

As Tevye in 'Fiddler on the Roof' said,” traditions, traditions they tell me who I am (and pointing to the sky) and who He is!’ He..

What is one of the most powerful gifts you can give your child?

14-Dec-2017

It's not some high-tech gadget you can pick up at a store... it's a sense of belonging. So how can you instil that in your kids? At hom..

Your teenager’s brain doesn’t fully develop till they are over 21 years of age.

07-Dec-2017

Because your teenager’s brain hasn’t fully developed, they still need parental wisdom and guidance. Be a parent to your teenager f..

Three things children remember

30-Nov-2017

Best-selling author and psychologist Mary Pipher says there are three things that we usually remember with great happiness from our childhood - : ..

Role model to your family 5 keys to a simpler life

23-Nov-2017

1. Free your heart from hatred — practice forgiveness: Resentment is like firing a blocked shot gun, it harms the firer more than the person..

Husband who gets it wrong

16-Nov-2017

I have a programme on the Rhema radio network called “Love Doctor” where people send in their relationship problems. I thought this one ..

Use Specific compliments with your family

09-Nov-2017

You're great You're a nice kid Might be pleasant but they are not as effective as focused, precise compliments for specific activ..

I believe there are three golden rules in parenting teenagers

02-Nov-2017

First, “Don't parent out of your own pain”. Don't bribe your child with all the goodies in life hoping that they will fill your em..

Have fun with your children and give your spouse a mother’s day out of season

26-Oct-2017

Part of the success of this venture, is getting your children on board by asking them about what they think mum really loves. If you are not s..

The Building Blocks for a meaningful life.

19-Oct-2017

• A Self to live with • A work to live for • A faith to live by • A Cause greater than yourself worthy of your life ..

5 Ways to highjack Children’s Complaining

12-Oct-2017

When you plan a fun trip for the kids, such as a holiday road trip, you expect them to be grateful and throw themselves into the whole experienc..

Traditions and Hope

05-Oct-2017

According to Dr Curt Thompson, neuroscientist and the author of ‘Anatomy of the Soul’, traditions really matter as they create resilience ..

Family Traditions

28-Sep-2017

“We always do this!” is important for children’s identity. Creating family traditions are worth the effort. Today&..

How to help your spouse have an affair

21-Sep-2017

More often than not, affairs don’t just happen. Oh, sure, sometimes they do, but there are usually things that are said or not said, done ..

Parenting with Honour

14-Sep-2017

Have you tried just about everything to get your kids to behave? Then maybe you need the honour approach. This is what discipline without hon..

What's your reaction when your child shares disturbing information?

07-Sep-2017

Though it may be difficult to suppress an immediate, emotional reaction based on what you hear, try to resist a quick answer. Reacting too qui..

I hope you have a great Father's day this Sunday

31-Aug-2017

As a Dad you can add to the celebration by taking the initiative. For instance after thanking your family for their gifts and kind thoughts, tell th..

Our kids want a great Dad and Grandfather

24-Aug-2017

Last week I was speaking to a large men's group, and during question time a dad shared how six years ago he was a single dad living with a teenage..

Five ways Dads Can Be A Good Example of a great Man.

17-Aug-2017

1. Honour the Golden Rule. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others how you would like to be treated. This includes the way you speak to each other..

Ten things a daughter needs from her Dad

10-Aug-2017

1. Reliability. You’re the most important man in her life; so don’t let her down. 2. A Hero. She needs a hero so you be it! John ..

Time for a relationship tune-up?

03-Aug-2017

The other day I had a dad moment re my communication with my family. Basically about speaking into their lives words of encouragement. Like I..

As dads we need to warn our sons on how dangerous porn is

27-Jul-2017

I’ve listened to a number of lectures on how dangerous porn is and every time they missed the one vital fact. We as men need to realize our mo..

Lessons Learned

20-Jul-2017

Let me share with you Mark Merril USA parenting expert’s thoughts: In reflecting back on 15 years as a parent, here are 15 lessons learned: ..

Winter Holiday Fun

13-Jul-2017

By the second week of the winter holidays it’s not unusual for families to be stuck inside and tensions steadily rising! So change direction &nd..

What NOT to say to your wife during an argument

06-Jul-2017

Words have a powerful impact, particularly in relationships. In marriage, the impact is even deeper because of the level of intimacy. Jesus s..

Losing the America's Cup sucks .....but... winning is amazing!

29-Jun-2017

I am sure like me, you were on a roller coaster this week during the sailing of the America’s Cup, and the gutted feeling when it ended in defe..

5 of the Best Parenting Decisions I’ve made as a Father

22-Jun-2017

I have made plenty of mistakes in the 53 years I have been a father and grandfather—and if you don’t believe me, you can ask my wife and t..

A few hot tips for parenting alone

15-Jun-2017

There is no doubt that parenting alone can be a challenge: So here are a few hot tips to help: * Be kind to yourself. * List what need..

A Father's Priorities in a Busy World

08-Jun-2017

In today's world, one of the most common and urgent needs among fathers is tips for managing their time. The ability to do this is a k..

Are you really connecting with your Kids?

01-Jun-2017

Here’s a short test for parents and grandparents: • What’s your child's favourite TV show? • What's their favourite mo..

All about peer pressure - have a good read 'cos this one's a keeper....

25-May-2017

Author Quentin Crisp said, “The young always have the same problem - how to rebel and conform at the same time. They have now solved this by ..

The Habitual "Blamer"

11-May-2017

Are you a habitual blamer? Are you frustrated with your job or your spouse? We often blame people, places or things - sometimes even God - for..

Sometimes it is the very simple things that make the biggest difference.

11-May-2017

Here are 7 quick sayings that you can sprinkle into your conversations to enrich your relationships. 1. You’re amazing. To my sons, &ldq..

Cheater, cheater - you're a cheater..

27-Apr-2017

Don’t let your kids buy into the culture of cheating. "Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom," wrote Thomas Jefferson. So h..

How words spoken into a child’s mind ‘wire’ them for the future....

20-Apr-2017

You may remember the messages your parents handed on to you. The negative ones may have stuck with you and still affect your view of yourself,..

Dads take a spiritual lead this Easter

13-Apr-2017

Easter is a highly significant time for families. Not only because it is a holiday involving easter eggs and hot cross buns but because it is an op..

Always let your children know you are there for them

06-Apr-2017

Last week’s Dad strategy I shared not to rescue your teenagers, let them learn from their mistakes. A number of dads sent great feedback..

I believe there are three golden rules in parenting teenagers

30-Mar-2017

First, “Don't parent out of your own pain”. Don't bribe your child with all the goodies in life hoping that they will fill your emot..

It's not rocket science or Trivial Pursuit, but it is a tricky question!

23-Mar-2017

Here is a great question to ask your children and grandchildren. "What can you do to make me love you more?" Give them time to think up a few..

All about peer pressure

16-Mar-2017

All about peer pressure - have a good read 'cos this one's a keeper.... Author Quentin Crisp said, “The young always have the same prob..

WHAT'S YOUR REACTION WHEN YOUR CHILD SHARES DISTURBING INFORMATION?

09-Mar-2017

Though it may be difficult to suppress an immediate, emotional reaction based on what you hear, try to resist that reaction. Reacting too quickly m..

Dads Count

02-Mar-2017

If you ever wondered if your role as dad is important Then read these statistics from the USA. Dads Count 63% of youth suicides are from fa..

Our children need the ancient wisdom of Aristotle...

23-Feb-2017

They think because someone is a great artist, singer or sportsperson that they have it all together. Aristotle said there are two types of ..

Techno Limits

16-Feb-2017

Set limits on technology for yourself and your kids Technology is their servant; they are not its slave In early childhood limits on screen ..

Mastery

09-Feb-2017

Every child needs to experience the joy of mastery I hope you and your family have had a great start to 2017! Now is the time to evaluate your..

Fill your family's ‘joy reservoir’ this Christmas.

22-Dec-2016

Neuro science now talks about the ‘joy reservoir’ in our brains. Some even suggest it is the only part of our brain that keeps growing, as..

Ten things a daughter needs from her Dad

15-Dec-2016

1. Reliability You’re the most important man in her life; so don’t let her down. 2. A Hero She needs a hero so you be it! Jo..

Swimming against the tide

08-Dec-2016

I recently saw the movie Hacksaw Ridge with two of my teenage grandsons. We were all challenged by the hero, Desmond Doss’s, commitment to stick..

There are 52 Virtues or values important in life.

01-Dec-2016

The best way to teach these to your children is at home. A good character is learnt around the home. Here are 12 most important values: &bul..

Use Consequences calmly

24-Nov-2016

Use Consequences calmly Actions speak louder than words- Let the consequence do the teaching, not your words or anger. Your goal in train..

Life's Golden Rule

17-Nov-2016

'Treat others the way you would like them to treat you.’ Luke 6:31 One of the greatest things we can do as a Dad is to teach our children ..

The Power of the Languages of Love

10-Nov-2016

The Power of the Languages of Love The following article highlights significance of the small relational things we do. It was a beautiful Au..

Absent Dads equal Dumber Schools

03-Nov-2016

Dads attending school activities is not wasted on your child. One of the most interesting school names in all of America is the Dumber Academy..

Avoid Mood killers - set the tone

27-Oct-2016

Take the initiative and create a positive mood. Mood killers don’t just ruin a special moment; they hurt a marriage if they become ongoing..

The Importance of Attitude

20-Oct-2016

Our attitude gives us altitude to get over difficulties. 1. Belief is likely the most critical factor when predicting success The belief th..

Here are some good questions to challenge yourself as a Dad.

13-Oct-2016

(It is so important that children know their dad loves them no matter what!) Here are the questions: *Do they know they are loved when th..

Never give up on helping your children discover their gifts.

06-Oct-2016

Because Antonio’s voice was high and squeaky, he did not make the tryouts for the Cremona Boy’s Choir. When he took violin lessons, the..

Share an expedition with your children these holidays.

29-Sep-2016

Share an expedition with your children these holidays. In his book “Fatherless America: confronting our most urgent social problem.” ..

Dad, have fun with Post-its, texts and lunch box notes

22-Sep-2016

Dad, have fun with Post-its, texts and lunch box notes. One of the most powerful things in a family is to give your children a sense of attachmen..

5 great reasons to hold your spouse’s hand.

15-Sep-2016

Even after 52 years of marriage Mary and I hold hands on our morning walk. There is now a number of studies that say it is great to do that..

Accept and enjoy your children

08-Sep-2016

Accept and enjoy your children. Remember give your children: • Attention. • Acceptance. • Affirmation. &..

I hope you have a great Father’s day this Sunday.

01-Sep-2016

As a Dad you can add to the celebration by taking the initiative. For instance after thanking your family for their gifts and kind thoughts, tell th..

Teach Your Family About Courage

25-Aug-2016

From Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace in 1301 to the Tiananmen Square uprising in China in 1989, from the firefighters who climbed the burning..

The 7 ways to keep love alive in your family

18-Aug-2016

The 7 ways to keep love alive in your family. 1. Praise is such a great gift, and it’s easy to give. So look at the things that make your s..

Here is a great poem to read to your kids at dinnertime and then ask them, “Who am I?”

11-Aug-2016

Who Am I? I am your constant companion. I am your greatest helper or heaviest burden. I will push you forward or drag you downward. I a..

As a Dad, do you know the story your kids love to hear?

04-Aug-2016

Your kids love Dad telling stories about them. Tell your son about the night he was born. Tell your daughter about when she took her first step..

Do you speak your spouse or children’s love language?

28-Jul-2016

When you try to convey love to your family, does the message get through clearly or does it get lost in translation? You see, we are all differen..

A wise man once said, “love the mother of your children.”

21-Jul-2016

How do we love our wife completely? Here are a few quick ideas: 1. Learn from Jim Reeve’s great hit, “I love you because&hell..

Model and teach Compassion as a Dad

14-Jul-2016

1. Dad - you can take the initiative and change a negative family atmosphere! When the family is stressed and everyone’s energy is deplete..

Teach your child how to deal with mistakes

07-Jul-2016

When your child is on ‘the bench’ show them how to get off ‘the bench’ and back into the game of life. • Give you..

Your family members need to know they are valuable in your eyes!

30-Jun-2016

Because you as a dad know the importance of the three F’s of fathering; • Firm • Fair • Friendly As a Dad ..

Set Techno limits with your family

23-Jun-2016

Keep technology for special times. • Too much and your children become less creative and less resourceful, and more easily bored. &b..

Dad be a hero to your kids

16-Jun-2016

Introduce them to the wider, wilder world. Heroes never confuse strength and gentleness! A dad plays a major role in securing his children&r..

An involved, protective, passionate father is vital to a healthy functioning family

09-Jun-2016

An involved, protective, passionate father is vital to a healthy functioning family, if he is absent, someone in some way will have to stand in for hi..

Routines are so important for happy families. Every team has a master plan!

02-Jun-2016

The best thing a dad can do for his children is love their mother. • Together with your wife, set up your plan. • Your children..

As a father you are important in your daughter's life

26-May-2016

A Dad is the first man a daughter gives her heart to. So make her feel secure, she will get her security in life best from her dad.. So g..

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much” Jesus –The author of wisdom.

19-May-2016

So, start your teen’s journey to freedom by entrusting them with responsibility in some small things. For example, if they consistently perfor..

Set the Rules

12-May-2016

You give your child strength and courage when you expect them to do the right thing. Teach your children “In our family we …” whe..

Shoulder to Shoulder

05-May-2016

A boy feels like a man when his Dad tells him he’s a man. Shoulder to shoulder is the way to communicate with your boy. Boy..

Commmunicate - remember what it was like to be a child

28-Apr-2016

They don’t care that you know unless they know that you care. Believe in your child and be proud of their progress. • Ask them..

You are smarter than your teenager ..... true!

21-Apr-2016

You are smarter than your teenager….true! The frontal lobes on their brains are not fully formed, so teenagers assess risks haphazardly. F..

Give Mum a break during the autumn holidays

14-Apr-2016

Give Mum a break during the autumn holidays. Autumn school holidays put a lot of pressure on mums, so let’s rally around to give her a brea..

Encourage your children's debating skills

07-Apr-2016

Encourage your children’s debating skills To make a logical case for your stance is a life skill we all need to operate healthily in the wo..

Teach your children how to handle their money

31-Mar-2016

Avoid creating a ‘pay-back’ society where children only help if they get paid. Don’t pay your children for the regular chores t..

Should TGIF really be TGIM?

23-Mar-2016

With Easter coming up I’m sure that most of us men can’t wait to get off the job this Thursday and into the holiday weekend. You&rsq..

Never do anything without taking a child along

17-Mar-2016

Dads, remember to do it! ----- it is Saturday and errand day, the car needs petrol, a trip to the hardware store for DIY bits and pieces. That&rsqu..

Challenge your children to great things

10-Mar-2016

Lets never underestimate the potential of our children. I enjoyed reading the book “Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know", the Ranulph Fiennes a..

Are your children wealthy?

03-Mar-2016

Literacy is the ultimate luxury, and yet, in that regard our children are becoming poorer and poorer. One sociologist looking over 8,000 year..

Dates with Dad pay off over the years

25-Feb-2016

“My greatest joy over the years has been to see my three girls grow in social skills and maturity.” This week a Dad thanked me fo..

The basics of functional families

18-Feb-2016

Dads make great parents because they instinctively believe in the 4R’s: • Rules • Reasons • Routines ..

Good manners will open doors that the best education can't

11-Feb-2016

Dads, did you know many research studies are showing that good manners are the base of the ‘pyramid’ of good behaviour? We need to: ..

The Power of the Debrief

05-Feb-2016

We Dads can often get the discussion on track by asking how they would rate their day out of 10. With the new term beginning and your children he..

The Anyway Poem

29-Jan-2016

Here is a great poem to read and discuss with your family. At the start of a new school year, this poem will help your family members focus on what ..

Children love the wonder of Christmas

22-Dec-2015

Make sure you lead your family to tap into the wonder of Christmas. When my children were young we had a Christmas Eve tradition of having a cand..

Getting into the Christmas spirit

17-Dec-2015

It’s true that there’s a lot of pressure on families at Christmas, but what a great time to show your kids what your family stands for. ..

Have lots of RFA's with your family

26-Nov-2015

After 32 years of working with teenagers I found what they remember most about their childhood was ‘RFA’s. ‘RFA’s: Random Fu..

How do you tell your teenager something they don't want to hear?

19-Nov-2015

Just remember the four Cs. 1. Check your Emotions Before you speak to your teen make sure your state of mind is calm rather than ..

If the internal combustion engine needs an annual tune-up so do our relationships

12-Nov-2015

I had my car’s annual service and driving out afterwards I nearly went through the windscreen when I applied the brakes. I didn’t notice h..

In our family we...

05-Nov-2015

Here is a great ‘no blame’ phrase for parents to use. • In our family we say please and thanks. • In our family ..

I recently came across an old saying that has a lot of truth in it

29-Oct-2015

It's just a few lines, but it makes sense. For a family, it teaches great habits in working as a team that could last for generations.. He..

I love you because..

22-Oct-2015

They say the greatest thing a man can do is: to love the mother of his children. I was talking to a psychologist who specialized in marriage coun..

Everyone needs a 'back stop'

15-Oct-2015

There are times when every parent needs another person to support them in the challenging role of parent. Single parents need a trusted friend or r..

Three Things Children Remember

08-Oct-2015

Best-selling author and psychologist Mary Pipher says there are three things that we usually remember with great happiness from our childhood - : ..

Whoever has control must have responsibility. They belong together.

01-Oct-2015

If you give your child control in a situation make sure: 1. That the responsibility is spelled out 2. That it is within their capability 3..

Is Your Spouse Annoying You?

24-Sep-2015

It drives you crazy when he makes snap decisions, but his resolve was one of the reasons you fell in love with him. It bothers you that she is al..

Five Ways to Give your Kids Guts

17-Sep-2015

John Cryan, a pharmacologist at University College Cork, Ireland did an experiment with mice. This rodent, when placed in an inescapable tank of wate..

Jerry Seinfeld's Dad Comments

10-Sep-2015

Jerry Seinfeld’s offbeat humour delighted many in his 90’s TV series. In the last ten or so years he has really focused on being a dad and..

Father's Day

03-Sep-2015

How to do something special for your family this father’s day. It's Father's Day on Sunday and here is a "Awesome dad strategy" for dad to ..

Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters

25-Aug-2015

In her book, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, pediatrician Dr. Meg Meeker says that the best thing in the world for girls is to have a father who..

Have a wise saying each week on the fridge door

17-Aug-2015

A great thing for a family to do is have a wise saying or proverb on your fridge door each week. Introduce it to the family around the meal table an..

Talk to your kids about right and wrong

11-Aug-2015

This is a great discussion to have around the mealtime with you children. • Ask them to list the advantages of doing right. • ..

Tricky Kids

04-Aug-2015

Famous SAS leader General Sir Peter De La Billiere’s advice works for parenting ‘Tricky kids.” From his book “Looking for ..

5 Ways to Keep Your Love Alive

28-Jul-2015

By Gary Smalley 1. Praise is such a great gift, and it's so easy to give. So look at the things that make your spouse and others unique and de..

Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom

14-Jul-2015

Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom,” wrote Thomas Jefferson. So here are a few ideas to help guide your children as the chapt..

Three Things Children Remember

14-Jul-2015

Best-selling author and psychologist Mary Pipher says there are three things that we usually remember with great happiness from our childhood - : &b..

Welded Words

08-Jul-2015

Have you noticed that in our culture? We have welded words together? We have welded firmness with cruelty. Innocence with ignorance. Wi..

The Curse of Super-Nannies on TV

26-Jun-2015

Although the Super-nannies on TV give great advice, unfortunately parents often only apply the parenting advice they have seen a few times with their ..

How to Protect your teenager from risky drinking behaviour

23-Jun-2015

Be clear in your expectations, why? Because you care! Don’t be afraid to set rules for your young teen and ease off as they grow older. Discus..

What girls need

16-Jun-2015

Girls need parents (especially dads) who: • Let them know they're lovely and capable. • Provide emotional support and a listeni..

Are you parenting a strong willed child?

11-Jun-2015

Make sure you don't crush their spirit for remember, you want someone to fight so that you get the sunny room in the retirement home! Try changin..

Do you Blame Others?

04-Jun-2015

Are you an habitual blamer? Are you frustrated with your job or your spouse? We often blame people, places, or things - sometimes even God - for ..

Boys will always challenge their mother

28-May-2015

That’s why dads need to support their child’s mother at all times. Make sure you share with your wife these things about parenting boys...

A Few Hot Tips for Parenting Alone

19-May-2015

There is no doubt that parenting alone can be a challenge. So here are a few hot tips to help: Be kind to yourself. List what ne..

Three Things You Need to Know When Parenting Teenagers

12-May-2015

Their frontal lobes of their brain are not fully formed. • So they assess risk haphazardly. • For their brain to fully mature,..

Teach Your Children How To Put The Wow! into Mother's Day

05-May-2015

Teach your children how to make mum feel special on Mother’s day so plan ahead to put the ‘Wow!’ into this year’s Mothe..

Parenting with Honour

28-Apr-2015

Have you tried just about everything to get your kids to behave? Then maybe you need the honour approach. This is what discipline withou..

A Father's Priorities in a Busy World

21-Apr-2015

In today's world, one of the most common and urgent needs among fathers is tips for managing their time. The ability to do this is a key to suc..

The 4 Essentials of Life

14-Apr-2015

There are four essential truths that dads need to teach their kids before they leave home. They are: • Life is hard, (don't..

Autumn Holiday fun

07-Apr-2015

By the second week of the winter holidays it’s not unusual for families to be stuck inside and tensions steadily rising! So change di..

What Easter's All About

31-Mar-2015

School teachers tell me that it is amazing how many children no longer know why we have Easter and what it is all about... While I have no pro..

Teach Your Children Self Control

23-Mar-2015

Teach your children self control. A study just released from Otago University states that self control is one of the most important factors in y..

Helping Your Child To Live In The Real World

16-Mar-2015

Many well-educated young adults find themselves with no realistic goal after leaving school. They drift through multiple jobs or casual purs..

Dealing with bullying: Always take it seriously

09-Mar-2015

Bullying in school is on the rise. Bullying can take many forms: from malicious teasing, name-calling, making threats, spreading rumours, sending ..

Your Kids And Peer Pressure And How To Help Your Teenagers Deal With It

03-Mar-2015

Author Quentin Crisp said, “The young always have the same problem - how to rebel and conform at the same time. They have now solved..

Shades of Violence

17-Feb-2015

This week’s Dad strategy is about a very important issue for our young adults. My Mary’s letter to the editor of the NZ Herald publishe..

Loving Words Every Child Needs To Hear

12-Feb-2015

Loving words every child needs to hear There are times when encouragement means a lot. Sometimes a word is enough to convey it. I..

Parenting Teenagers

03-Feb-2015

1. The frontal lobes of their brains are not fully formed, so they assess risk haphazardly. They need adults who will push them to l..

Traditions Are Important To Children; It Gives Them Connections

22-Dec-2014

Tevy in the great musical, “Fiddler on the Roof” said. “Traditions, traditions they tell me who I am and (pointing upwards) w..

Getting into the Christmas Spirit

16-Dec-2014

There’s a lot of pressure on families at Christmas but what a great time to show your kids what your family stands for: * Ge..

Lessons learnt from 50 years of marriage

10-Dec-2014

Mary and I have just celebrated 50 years of marriage, a wonderful time! Here are 5 things I’ve learnt over that time. 1. ..

Has Your Dog Turned Into A Cat?

03-Dec-2014

The writer Adair Lara says young children behave like dogs -- they’re affectionate and love being around you. But when they hit the teen years t..

How To Live A Simpler Life

25-Nov-2014

1. Free your heart from hatred—forgive. Being unable to forgive is like taking a poison continuously and slowly killing yourself from ..

Get Your Kids To Make Their Bed And Save Their Brain

18-Nov-2014

Yes, it’s true! Dr. Robert Wilson, author of a groundbreaking study says conscientiousness starts with parents teaching their children..

Reading Mileage

11-Nov-2014

One of the greatest gifts you can give your children is the gift of reading. Help your child get through some mileage in their reading. ..

Should You Let Your Kids Sleep Over At A Friend'S House?

04-Nov-2014

If they are genuine friends and their family’s standards are similar to yours you should have few concerns apart from the lack of sleep ..

Handling Money

29-Oct-2014

It's very important that we teach our children how to handle money. I think it's important that they don't get paid for the chores they do aro..

Parenting CPR

22-Oct-2014

Here are two questions parents need answers to: 1. What do I do if my child misbehaves? 2. What do I do to acknowledge my c..

Needs & Requests Met

14-Oct-2014

Teach your children how to succeed in relationships for the rest of their life. Give them the following challenge: For the next three days ..

It Matters to Them...

07-Oct-2014

It seems to happen in every family, your teenager becomes possessed by an alien and refuses to talk and share about their life. It's import..

The Habitual Blamer

02-Oct-2014

Are you a habitual blamer? Are you frustrated with your job or your spouse? We often blame people, places, or things – sometime..

Teach Them to Take a Risk

08-Sep-2014

Some children are very fearful about taking risks. Yet we only achieve in life by taking risks! Sometimes their biggest fear may be to ..

Sometimes The Very Simple Things Are The Most Important

20-Aug-2014

“7 Quick sayings to sprinkle into our conversations to enrich our relationships. 1. You’re amazing. (To my sons, “You&rsq..

Teaching Resilience

15-Aug-2014

The Harvard business college says resilience is what determines champions on the sports field,hospital and also in the corporate board ..

Here Is A Great No Blame Phrase For Dads To Use In Their Parenting

08-Aug-2014

Here is a great ‘no blame’ phrase for dads to use in their parenting. In our family we say pl..

Are you Connecting with your Kids?

25-Jul-2014

Are you Connecting with your Kids? Here’s a short test for parents and grandparents: • What’s your child's favorite ..

Your Child's Story

18-Jul-2014

What to do and Why ..... • Record history – changes, growth and development • Record achievements – certificates, s..

Compliments

10-Jul-2014

General, nonspecific compliments like: "You're great. You're a nice kid." might be pleasant but they are not as effective as focused, precise co..

Fighting Infobesity

30-May-2014

An American friend was telling me he was at a dinner having a fascinating conversation with some very influential people. But one of the dinner gu..

Making Mum feel Special on Mother's Day

30-Apr-2014

Teach your children how to make mum feel special on Mother’s day so plan ahead to put the 'Wow' into the celebration. ..

The Building Blocks to a Meaningful Life

16-Apr-2014

The Building Blocks for a meaningful life. A Self to live with. A work to live for. A faith to live by. A Ca..

What's Your Reaction When Your Child Shares Disturbing Information?

02-Apr-2014

Though it may be difficult to suppress an immediate, emotional reaction based on what you hear, try to resist a quick answer. Reacting too qu..

It's Q and A Time

25-Mar-2014

Here is a great question to ask your children and grandchildren. “What can you do to make me love you more?” Give them ti..

Even at 21 Years Of Age, They are Still Kids!!!

12-Mar-2014

Your teenager’s brain doesn’t fully develop till they are over 21 years of age. Because your teenager’s brain hasn’t ..

Things to Teach Your Kids About Failure

05-Mar-2014

1. Not Everybody Gets A Trophy Somewhere along the line we became a society that preached instant gratification. Like a giant side-sh..

Standing Out by Over Delivering

27-Feb-2014

Are you struggling to get your kids to do their household jobs well? One of the keys to being successful in your career is asking yourself ..

Three Things you Kids WILL Remember

19-Feb-2014

Best-selling author and psychologist Mary Pipher says there are three things that we usually remember with great happiness from our childhood: ..

A Big Opportunity is at Your Feet Right Now

12-Feb-2014

Hi gentlemen Valentine’s Day is upon us! You may think, “I will resist it as it’s too commercial!” &..

New Year, New Classroom...

04-Feb-2014

Get back into the habit of homework by having regular reading time every day. Ask questions about what they’ve read, and get them to writ..

Fill 'Er Up, Thanks Mate

12-Dec-2013

Fill your families ‘Joy Reservoir’ this Christmas. Neuroscience now talks about the ‘Joy reservoir’ in our brains. Some..

Teach Your Family About Courage

05-Dec-2013

From Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace in 1301 to the Tiananmen Square uprising in China in 1989, from the firefighters who climb the bu..

10 Things a Daughter Needs From Her Dad

22-Nov-2013

Ten Things a Daughter needs from her dad. 1. You are the most important man in her life, so don’t let her down. 2. Sh..

The Inconvenient Plan

15-Nov-2013

If you find as a dad you are constantly threatening your children about their bad behaviour and you are on the constant ‘nagging merry-go-ro..

Born Bad or Turned Bad

01-Nov-2013

Born bad or Turned bad? It’s still a great parenting issue are we born bad or do we get turned bad. Before his release in 2001, aft..

Parenting Advice for the Future King

14-Aug-2013

Well Prince William, you have shown yourself to be an amazing guy, (you even love rugby), so I know you have the potential to be an awesome dad..

A Strategy for Making Your Family IT Smart

13-Aug-2013

Most Dads are unsure of how to handle the internet invasion of their home. I challenge parents on the fact how we often let characters..

Every Dad Needs To Know The Answer To The Following Questions

13-Aug-2013

Especially about your daughters. Most of your parenting of younger children is heading for the “White Water Rafting” years, your c..

Do you know what kind of story your kids love to hear?

13-Aug-2013

Your kids love stories about them. Tell your son about the night he was born. Tell your daughter about the day she took her first steps. T..

Absent Dads = Dumber Schools

13-Aug-2013

One of the most interesting school names in all of America is The Dummer Academy in Massachusetts. Named after Gov. William Dummer in 1763, the sc..

Laughter Is The Best Medicine

09-Aug-2013

They say ‘laughter is the best medicine’ but it’s also more than that - it is the vitamin of life...

Facebook - Draw Up A Contract With Your Kids Now

25-Jul-2013

FACEBOOK SAFETY GUIDELINES: The next time Jonathan Parker wants to burglarize a house, maybe he'll stick to his priorities. After rifling thr..

The Super 8

17-Jul-2013

On October 30, 1938, Orson Wells broadcast his infamous “War of the Worlds” Mercury Theatre episode (CBS radio). The first 30-minutes ..

A Strategy for Being a Hero to Your Kids

11-Jul-2013

A Strategy for being a Hero to your kids Capitalise on your hero status during the years your children are 4-10 years old. When ..

Are We Overdoing it? And Some Other Gems

04-Jul-2013

Jerry Seinfeld On the three poison ‘P’s of parenting. The first is Praise – "We tell our kids, 'Great job!' too ..

Don't Forget the Power of Humour

26-Jun-2013

Dads don’t forget humour with your kids. Jerry Lewis‘s father had a great sense of humour; “When I was a kid, I said to ..

Ask Your Children at Bedtime

19-Jun-2013

Ask your children at bedtime, “What are you going to wear tomorrow?” And then as they get up,”What are you wearing tod..

Are you Dreading the Talk?

13-Jun-2013

Most parents would rather avoid conversations about serious subjects like premarital sex or drug abuse. The key to talking about tough subjects is..

So You Want Your Kids To Be Wealthy....

03-Jun-2013

One sociologist, looking over 8,000 years of human history, writes that the measure of wealth is the ability to own a book and be able to read ..

You Need To Know The Answers To These Questions

28-May-2013

Every dad needs to know the answer to the following questions. This especially important when you are parenting your daughters. Most of..

Why Sport is Important

23-May-2013

Playing sport teaches our children the six leadership skills; 1. Be a team player. 2. Play by the rules. 3. Win graciously...

The Elephants, the Rhinoceros and the Bull

15-May-2013

The story was told in a wildlife journal of a female elephant and her young bull elephants that were moved to a different wildlife park. The ju..

Resilience Quotient is the New Goal

01-May-2013

Three years ago Harvard Business School said RQ (Resilience Quotient) was more important than IQ (Intelligence quotient) or EQ (emotional quoti..

Army Battle Tactics May Apply

23-Apr-2013

The famous SAS leader General Sir Peter De La Billiere’s advice works for dads. From his book “Looking for Trouble.” H..

The 52 Virtues

16-Apr-2013

A List of The 52 Virtues Here are the 52 virtues that have inspired the 52 Virtues Project. They are taken from "The Virtues Project Educ..

How Dads Can Manage The Family IT Strategy

10-Apr-2013

A STRATEGY FOR MAKING YOUR FAMILY IT SMART. Most Dads are unsure of how to handle the internet invasion of their home. I challenge ..

The Easter Tune Up

02-Apr-2013

Family Traditions are so important. Every culture has important traditions and they usual have a Spiritual base. In the great musical &ldq..

5 Keys to a Simpler Life

12-Mar-2013

Role model to your family 5 keys to simpler life 1. Free your heart from hatred— practice forgiveness: Resentment..

Give 'em Guts

05-Mar-2013

John Cryan, a pharmacologist at University College Cork, Ireland did an experiment with mice. This rodent, when placed in an inescapable tank of w..

What Makes a Hero?

24-Feb-2013

One of the reasons why Eric Liddell is an extraordinary hero to me as a child was because he refused to run on a Sunday. When he heard that t..

Dads, Get to Your Happy Place on Valentines Day

12-Feb-2013

Want to be in your ‘Blokes Happy place” this Valentine’s day? Then love your wife eloquently, and if you don’t know how..

Seinfeld Says ...

30-Jan-2013

Jerry Seinfeld’s offbeat humour delighted many in his 90’s TV series. In the last ten or so years he Has really focused on being a dad ..

Creative Holiday Fun Strategy

21-Jan-2013

Don’t let the Holidays drive you nuts! Instead Creative Holiday Fun! By the final weeks of the long summer holidays it’s ..

Why Dads As Male Mentors Are So Important

01-Nov-2012

Hi Awesome dads, I trust your week is going well and you have had some time to enjoy the sun with your children. Below is this weeks stra..

Don't Make Bedtime Dread Time for Your Child

29-Aug-2012

Bedtimes are a wonderful time for letting children of all ages feel connected to a loving and supportive team. All human beings need L..

Do you speak your childrens or spouse's love language?

28-Aug-2012

When you try to convey love to your children or spouse, does the message get through clearly, or is it lost in translation? You see, we're..

The 7 Qualities of a Mature Person

28-Aug-2012

Talk these truths with your Teens and Tweens around the dinner table. Here are the 7 qualities taken from Leadership expert, D..

Our Children Need The Wisdom Of Aristotle

28-Aug-2012

In our modern culture tweens and teenagers confuse the two types of wisdom. They think because someone is a great artist, singer or sport..

How to Deal to Sibling Rivalry

28-Aug-2012

It is easy to make the mistake of believing that children will stop fighting as long as they have ‘equal’ amounts. Human nature is ins..

A Few Smart Strategies for Dads Parenting Alone

28-Aug-2012

There is no doubt that parenting alone can be a challenge. So here are a few hot tips to help: Be kind to yourself. List what ne..

The Big Picture

02-Aug-2012

Sometimes it’s great to get away from the city lights and look at the night sky. Just to get the big picture on life. We dads need do re..

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