Focus on the Family: Family Minute with Dr. Bill Maier

A Successful Adoption

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Adoption can be an exciting process, but it can also bring a lot of uncertainty.

A Tweak Now and Then

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Is your parenting characterized by a balance between love and limits?

Introverted or Isolated?

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If your teen is isolating himself, he might be trying to tell you something.

Indoor Fun

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:45:05 GMT

Sometimes the weather forces you to stay indoors but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!

De-clutter for Charity

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:44:41 GMT

Wwhat about all those items cluttering up your closets? There are ways to put them to good use.

The Joy of Music

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:44:02 GMT

There’s a reason that young kids love music: it's soothing to their ears and great for their soul.

Teaching Social Skills

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:43:39 GMT

Looking for a simple way to teach basic social skills to your kids?

An Alternative to Yelling

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:42:41 GMT

Is it ever okay to yell at your kids?

A Mighty Marriage

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:40:32 GMT

Weathering the hard times can strengthen your relationship.

The Bottle Effect

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Growing up in an alcoholic home can impact your life in many ways you may not even realize.

An Objective Parent

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The truth is, as well as you know your child, you’ll always be a little bit biased.

Informed Adoptions

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When considering adoption, make sure you go into the process with your eyes wide open.

Making a Getaway

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Can too much time with your friends negatively impact your marriage?

The Problem with Horror Films

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What is it about scary movies that fascinates kids? A steady diet of horror is NOT harmless.

Home School Fun

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The fun of homeschooling your kids is the freedom it gives you to try new and exciting things.

Marriage Communication

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Communication is the lifeblood of a good marriage.

Wired to Wiggle

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We may have the ability to sit quietly when we’re bored but some toddlers are wired to wiggle.

The Second Time Around

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dating is scary, but it’s nothing compared to the anxiety of dating if you’re a widow or widower.

Treating Kids with Respect

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kids learn to respect their parents but respect is a two-way street.

Deciphering "Teacher-Speak"

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Learn to decipher what your child’s teacher is trying to say.

Keeping Bath Time Safe

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Babies love their baths, but bath time can be dangerous if you’re not careful.

Online Worries

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The “World Wide Web” is a great tool, but it can easily lead to “World Wide Worries.”

Cleaning Step-by-Step

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Even young kids can be taught to keep their rooms clean.

Girls' Night In

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:26:08 GMT

Don’t be a hermit just because you have a new baby.

The Need to Compete

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Some kids are simply wired to compete.

A Progressive Dinner

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Here's an idea for a great date night out with your spouse.

Kids and Commercials

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:41:48 GMT

Many children today are exposed to thousands of television commercials each month.

A Secret Date

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:19:27 GMT

Here's something creative to do with your spouse on date nights.

Helping Kids Sleep Alone

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:19:12 GMT

It’s hard to turn away a lonely three-year-old when they come into your room at night.

Talk as you Walk

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A brisk walk around the block can also be good for your marriage!

Trouble at School?

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Do you know if your child is having trouble making friends in grade school?

Making Dreams Happen

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Encourage your kids to dream big and to articulate their goals.

When Fashion Goes Bad

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pre-schoolers are known for making some pretty interesting fashion choices.

Pre-Paid Cards for Teens

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Credit card companies are targeting teenagers with their advertising campaigns.

Stronger Marriages

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Many married couples don't see counseling as a tool to strengthen their relationship.

Timeless Virtues

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kids must learn the world doesn’t revolve around them and the place to teach them is at home.

Divorce Myth

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Do half of all marriages really end in divorce?

Effective Discipline

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There’s nothing quite a cute and cuddly as a two-year-old -- at least until they start to scream.

Study as a Family

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The best way to raise kids who love learning is to make studying a family affair.

Talking Body Image

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Teens today are obsessed with weight and body image -- comparing themselves to others.

The Runaway Toddler

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Once toddlers start to walk it’s hard to keep them from running off.

Encouraging an Underachiever

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Raising a chronic underachiever can be a challenge.

Surviving Football Season

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It is finally here … the time has come for chips, dips and football season!

A Cry for Help

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Any time a teen talks about taking their own life, parents need to take it seriously.

Keeping Kitchens Safe

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Make sure your kitchen is safe for both babies and toddlers.

Juggling Career and Kids

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

No career is worth risking your kids’ future.

Questions to Ask Your Teen

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When you feel like lecturing your teenager, why not stop and ask them a few questions instead?

The Visual Learner

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Visual learners tend to associate pictures with words or concepts they are being taught.

Image or Integrity

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We live in a culture that places extreme value on a perfect image -- and that can be unhealthy.

Living on One Income

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Your kids need more of you, not more “stuff.”

the Involved Parent

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The uninvolved parent is usually too busy or distracted to bother with their child’s education.

Teens Who Love to Read

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

How do you get your teenager to read? The same way you did when they were kids.

Backpacks 101

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Most kids take backpacks to school but an overloaded backpack can become a pain in the neck.

Raising an "Only"

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re a parent of one child you may have heard some of the stereotypes about only children.

When a Man Loves a Woman

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When a man loves a woman, his life literally changes for the better.

Dealing With a Stray

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So what’s the first thing a pet does when he gets lost? He looks for a kid to follow home.

Helping Kids Achieve

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

True self-confidence develops from a feeling of competence and accomplishment.

When Depression Hits Home

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Depression is a very serious illness that, left untreated, can destroy a marriage.

Know Your Child's Learning Style

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What we learn depends a lot on how we learn.

Lincoln's Warning

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Abraham Lincoln foresaw a nation and culture that didn’t understand the depth of sacrifice.

Two Simple Rules

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

No one every said parenting was easy, but two simple rules can make it a bit less complicated.

Can't Get No Satisfaction

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When you seek the best for your spouse, you often find the best for yourself.

Get Walking!

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Walking is not only the simplest form of exercise; it’s also one of the most effective.

Distorted Thinking

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Unless we change the thought patterns behind negative feelings, we’ll stay in an emotional rut.

Good Conversation Skills

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sometimes trying to talk to a teenager is like trying to carry on a conversation with a monkey.

Preparing for School

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kids who learn their numbers and letters before kindergarten can stay ahead of the class.

Learning by Doing

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Adults learn by doing — and babies are no different!

A Tough Time

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Adolescence is a tough time for teens and parents alike.

Adjusting to a New School

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Changing schools can be a big decision for parents. But it’s a huge adjustment for kids.

The Doctor/Patient Relationship

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

How do you find a good physician for your family? Understand the doctor/patient relationship.

Mutual Respect

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A lack of respect in marriage can lead to big problems.

A Marriage "Tune Up"

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Would you let your car go without maintenance? Why not give your marriage the same attention?

Family Time

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Between school, career and household chores family time is getting harder and harder to find.

TBD 40 characters or less

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:01:02 GMT

80 characters or less. No paragraph html. <p> or </p>

Family Police Force

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Every year millions of people become victims of identity theft.

Serious Stress

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Girls today are under unprecedented levels of stress, and it’s showing.

Treating a Fever

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If you’ve got a baby at home do you know what to do if he comes down with a fever?

Modeling Good Health

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Childhood obesity is a national crisis. But it doesn’t have to be one in your own household.

The New "Affair"

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Today there’s a new kind of cheating going on.

The Obedience Game

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There are better ways to teach toddlers to obey than just saying “no” all the time.

Contractual Obligations

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the best ways to monitor your child’s social networking activity is to get things in writing.

Teaching True Friendship

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 08:23:17 GMT

Do you know if your child is being a good friend?

Commercial Success?

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:50:02 GMT

Prime time commercials are almost as provocative as the television programs they sponsor.

Distress Signals

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A sudden change in a teen’s behavior can be a distress signal for parents.

What Makes a Marriage Strong?

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The strongest marriages don’t rely on infatuation, or even love to keep them strong.

The Nag Factor

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly 60% of today’s kids keep nagging their parents, even after they’ve said “no.”

Basics of Allergy Testing

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Testing for allergies often isn’t an exact science.

Pupularity vs. Value

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Being popular may have its perks, but being valued lasts forever.

Adopting a Pet

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Instead of heading to the pet store why not rescue an animal that needs a good home?

Responsible Toddlers

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Even young toddlers need to be taught responsibility and independence.

Intimacy Through Recreation

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It’s a fact that couples who play together tend to stay together.

True Independence

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Our founding fathers worked tirelessly to create a fair, balanced and functional government.

Getting Past the Past

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:09:37 GMT

Past relationships can often be a sensitive issue for couples preparing for marriage.

A Comedy of Errors

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:09:17 GMT

If you’re looking for love, romantic comedy films aren’t your best source for guidance.

When Babies Cry

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When babies cry, it’s their way of telling us what they need.

Chop Shopping Expenses

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Taking stock of how you spend your money is the first step to saving it.

Quitting Caffeine

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Caffeine addiction is a very real dependence many adults experience, without even knowing it.

The Problem of 'Cutting'

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Psychologists call cutting “self-mutilation” and it’s far more dangerous than kids understand.

A Healthy Courtship

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

How do you develop a healthy dating relationship without smothering each other?

Competitive Parenting

stories@family.org (Focus on the Family) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There’s something about parenting that brings out the competitive nature in all of us.