Family Minute with Dr. Bill Maier
Sixty seconds of positive parenting from Focus on the Family
September 3, 2010:
Servant Spouse
Marriages that thrive are those where both the husband and wife develop a servant mentality. Your relationship can begin to blossom when you are meeting each other’s needs. We’ll share some ideas on how you can make life easier for your spouse.
September 2, 2010:
Library Scavenger Hunts
The library is a great resource for kids of all ages. But figuring out the Dewey Decimal system to find the books they want can be a challenging experience. We’ll give you some ideas on how you and your family can get the most out of visiting your local library.
September 1, 2010:
In the Know on Emo
There’s a new movement among teen circles and it’s becoming quite an appealing trend. As you child searches for individuality, parents need to be aware of what their kids may or may not latch onto. Find out what the “emo” subculture is all about and how you can set appropriate limits for your teenagers.
August 31, 2010:
Art Appreciation
Art plays an important role in the life of a child. Most kids love to draw and experiment with colors and different canvases. As parents, how can we instill an appreciation for fine art in our kids?
August 30, 2010:
Dining Room Romance
Romance is important in any marriage. But with dirty diapers, kids screaming, and dishes to clean, it’s hard to find time to spend alone with your spouse. We’ll tell you how you can have a romantic dinner without leaving the comfort of your own home.
August 27, 2010:
The Cure for “Volunteer-it-is
Once again, you’ve agreed to run the annual Christmas party at school, drive kids to soccer, and bake cookies for the elderly. Could it be that you are taking on a little bit too much? What can you do to cure your “volunteer-itis”?
August 26, 2010:
Digital Afterlife
Digital photos on the internet can really come back around. If your teenager sends risqué photos of themselves to friends, it can be out in the open for everyone to see…forever. Learn how to warn you teen about posting compromising pictures on the internet.
August 25, 2010:
Friends Don’t Show Friends
Online porn is at everyone’s finger tips. So it’s not a surprise when your child becomes exposed to it, especially at a friend’s house. What can you do to make sure your little one doesn’t stumble upon porn when you’re not around?
August 24, 2010:
A Win-Win Marriage
You’ve heard of win-win relationships in business? Well the same principle applies to marriage. How can you learn to compromise so that both you and your spouse come out a winner?
August 23, 2010:
Time for Privacy
When children are young, it’s not uncommon for them to see mom and dad without clothes. But as they get older, it’s time to learn about privacy. What’s the right age for parents to exhibit more personal modesty around their kids?
August 20, 2010:
Supporting Special-Needs Families
Parents of special-needs kids face unique challenges most of us will never be able to understand. That’s why it’s important to find groups in their community that will provide support and encouragement. We’ll give you a few ideas on where to find programs for you and your special-needs child.
August 19, 2010:
Staying in Touch
Good friendships are hard to come by and so it may be difficult to cope with a friend that has to move far away. Your relationship doesn’t have to die because one person is not in your neck of the woods. We’ll tell you how you can stay connected and keep your friendship strong.
August 18, 2010:
Too Much Media
Kids can consume more than 16 hours of media each day. More media exposure can mean more trouble and less self-control for a lot of children. Find out how you can teach your kids to ditch the TV and video games and strengthen relationships with family and friends.
August 17, 2010:
Mealtime Madness
We all know that toddlers can be picky eaters. One minute, they love broccoli and the next minute, they are throwing it on the floor. Learn how to deal with the mealtime madness battle in your home.
August 16, 2010:
Benefits of Small Groups
Looking for a way to strengthen your marriage? We’ll tell you why being involved in a couples’ group at a local church can bring you and your spouse together like never before.
August 13, 2010:
Discernment
Teaching kids to develop a strong moral character is an important job for parents. But with all the negative media and influences bombarding children every day, that can prove to be a challenge. What can you do to train your kids to make wise decisions in their lives?
August 12, 2010:
When Opposites Attract
Opposites really do attract, especially in the dating years. But what happens when you’re married and realize your “perfect mate” is not so perfect anymore? Learn how you can love your spouse for who they are in spite of their weaknesses.
August 11, 2010:
A Friend in Need
Tough times come and go in our lives. That’s why it’s important to have an encouraging friend by your side. How can you learn to help a friend when they need you the most?
August 10, 2010:
The Second Great Depression
There is a new great depression and it involves teens. Teenagers nowadays are experiencing a more anxious, stressed and self-centered life. Learn why generations of the past lived a happier and more hopeful existence compared to today’s youth.
August 9, 2010:
In-House Scavenger Hunts
It’s raining outside and you have a house full of kids. What can you do to stop the boredom? We’ll give you an activity that can entertain your little ones on a cloudy day.
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.