Family Minute with Dr. Bill Maier
Sixty seconds of positive parenting from Focus on the Family
January 8, 2009:
Step-Parenting
Living in a step-family poses tremendous challenges. That’s why the divorce rate for second marriages is between 60 and 80 percent. What can you do to successfully integrate your new blended family?
January 7, 2009:
Potty Training Survival Guide
Why is it that some kids are potty trained at two, while others are still running around in diapers until they are four? It may be a messy subject, but parents get stressed out about it. We’ll share the signs to look for and what to do if your child is ready to use the potty.
January 6, 2009:
Helping Teens Look Ahead
Kids who know what they want to do with their careers are more likely to succeed in college. We’ll tell you how to give your teen a sense of direction before they fly solo.
January 5, 2009:
Health and Heart of Marriage
We’ve all heard that “a cheerful heart is good medicine". But did you know that studies show that married people live longer than singles, and they report being happier overall? Learn why the health of your marriage has a direct impact on the health of your heart.
January 2, 2009:
When Thumbs Attack!
When your baby sucks his thumb, it’s cute. When your grade-schooler does it, it’s time to intervene. Find out how you can curb this pesky thumb sucking habit.
January 1, 2009:
Family Brainstorm
Did you know that your family can be a great source of creativity? If you are planning a vacation or trying to find a new job, you can enlist the help of everyone in your household. We’ll give you some ideas of how to brainstorm together as a family to get that communication flowing.
December 31, 2008:
A Dream for Your Marriage
Marriage needs to be lived out moment by moment, but it also needs direction. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have dreams and visions that you share with your spouse. How can you make a plan together as husband and wife to live out your marriage with a clear set of goals?
December 30, 2008:
Give, Save, Spend
Some kids earn money by doing chores. Other children receive a check for their birthday or Christmas. So what can you do as a parent to teach your kids to spend and save money wisely?
December 29, 2008:
Relief-Valve Therapy
Stress can be a normal part of life. But it can be unhealthy when it starts to interfere with your every day activities. What can you do to find the point of stress and slow down so you and your family can recharge?
December 26, 2008:
Funny Science
We’ve all heard that “laughter is good medicine”. But what does that saying really mean? We’ll tell you the true science of how having a sense of humor can improve your whole well-being.
December 25, 2008:
Fresh Christmas Traditions
Christmas is a time for family and friends and enjoying traditions passed on from one generation to another. But what happens when those traditions become a bore? Learn what you can do to spice up your holiday activities.
December 24, 2008:
Raising Compassionate Kids
Looking for the perfect gift for your child? How about teaching them the joy of giving? Learn how you can get your kids involved in doing something special for others this Christmas.
December 23, 2008:
Dancing Dilemma
Dancing can seem innocent at first, but don’t be misled. It can be one of the big issues parents face in raising their teens. Learn what you need to know about teenagers and the temptations they can encounter when attending a dance party.
December 22, 2008:
Rules of Engagement
You’ve just met the man of your dreams and he is perfect in every way. But then you discover that he has a problem with pornography. What should you know about your significant other’s addiction before you enter into a marital relationship?
December 19, 2008:
Music and Early-Childhood Development
Did you know that music can improve a child’s early development? It can also make learning easier and more effective for everyone. Find out why music has the power to soothe your soul and your mind.
December 18, 2008:
A More Meaningful Christmas-II
With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be difficult to make your kids understand the significance of Christmas. Learn how you and your family can make Christmas a little more special for those who need it the most.
December 17, 2008:
Dyscalculia
Does your child seem terrified of Math? He may be suffering from dyscalculia. We’ll tell you a little bit about this learning disability and how your child can overcome it.
December 16, 2008:
Wise Choices for the Future
It’s so easy to go into marriage with a “live for the moment” attitude. But one of the biggest mistakes that newlyweds make is getting hitched before discussing their shared values. Learn why it’s important to have those life discussions before you head to the alter.
December 15, 2008:
Goofing Off Online
For teens, working on the internet can provide countless opportunities for learning. But today’s kids are busy avoiding their homework and spending hours on the web chatting and blogging. Why is it important to monitor your child’s use of the internet to make sure they keep up with their school work?
December 12, 2008:
A More Meaningful Christmas-I
For kids, Christmas means time off from school and lots of presents. Sometimes, it’s hard for them to understand the true meaning of Christmas and serving those less fortunate. What can you do to teach your children the gift of giving and putting others before themselves during the holidays?
About Dr. Maier
Dr.
Bill Maier is Focus on the Family's Vice-President, Psychologist
in Residence. A child and family psychologist, he acts as a media
spokesperson for Focus on a variety of family-related issues.
Dr. Maier is a veteran broadcaster. He has also been an occasional guest voice actor on Focus on the Family's children's radio drama, "Adventures in Odyssey."
Upcoming broadcasts
- January 9, 2009:
The Lure of MMOGs - January 12, 2009:
Healthy Communication with Teens - More upcoming broadcasts