10 Tips for Helping Your Kids Realize Their Full Potential

By Jim Burns, Ph.D.

1:  Utilize the Power of "Being There."  Your children regard your very presence as a sign of caring and connectedness.

2.  Express Affection, Warmth and Encouragement.  A family with a sense of "A.W.E." is a home where children and spouses will feel more secure - unlike a home where shame-based parenting is the standard.

3.  Build Healthy Morals and Values.  The decisions kids make today will often affect them for the rest of their lives.  If you truly desire to help your child reach his or her full potential, a good way to start is by helping them to live by biblical standards.

4.  Discipline with Consistency - Not just when you "feel like it."   Clearly expressed expectations help kids learn boundaries.  Consistent follow-through when those expectations aren't met produces responsible kids.

5.  Ruthlessly Eliminate Stress.  The unbalanced life will not be kind to the areas you neglect.

6.  Play is Necessary for a Close-Knit Famil  There's nothing like a little "play time" to bring the whole family together.  "Play time" expands opportunities for families to communicate better, too.  That's important because . . .

7.  Communication is the Key.  And remember to keep it positive - that's the language of love for our children!

8.  Energize Your Family's Spiritual Growth.  Your greatest calling in life is to leave a spiritual legacy for your children.

9.  Love Your Spouse.  A loving marriage brings hope and security to children.

10.  The Best Things in Life are not "Things."   Healthy stewardship and financial decisions produce positive family priorities.

Copyright YouthBuilders 2004