Sunday, January 29, 2012

Movie Reviews: Red Tails

Red Tails is the riveting, true tale of the Tuskegee airmen, the first African American Army Air Corps fighter squadron that fought in World War II. More than just a movie, Red Tails is a captivating account of a group of brave heroes who overcame the overwhelmingly difficult experience of racial segregation.  This movie chronicles the pioneering spirit of the Tuskegee Airmen who were determined to prove themselves worthy to fight for their country and be recognized for their efforts.
In light of history, Red Tails underscores the injustices and prejudice that the African American race has endured in the past and applauds how far we have come as a nation in implementing equality.
This movie is a motivational must-see for kids.  Its prevailing themes of bravery, courage, and determination can apply to many modern-day situations.   Rated PG-13, Red Tails presents many valuable lessons that will leave older children believing in themselves and feeling that they can excel despite seemingly overwhelming odds.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Banishing Four Common Parenting Myths

“Before I got married I had six theories about bringing up children; now I have six children and no theories.”  – John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester

Parenting is a challenging endeavor and many moms and dads complicate the process by adopting some rather frustrating myths.  What do you believe concerning good parenting and well-behaved children?  Common Myths Consider the following myths about parenting and honestly evaluate whether you are consciously or unconsciously buying into them.

Myth #1 – Committed parents who are emotionally connected have children that are naturally well-behaved. The truth of the matter is that even loving, committed and engaged parents have children that act up from time to time.  The mistake that parents make is unfairly associating a child’s actions or imperfections to the level of love and care that a parent offers their child.  The fact is that children are human and they are going to throw temper tantrums and pitch fits no matter how emotionally connected their parents are to them.  Those types of behaviors are just part of being immature and they are not a direct reflection on your level of commitment to the parenting process.  Conduct that adults label as “misbehavior” is really a very..............read more

Monday, January 16, 2012

Talking to Teens about Forgiveness

Because so many adults put so little thought into or value upon the concept of extending forgiveness to others, it’s no wonder that teens often have a difficult time understanding and implementing this very important concept.

Taking a Lesson from Little Kids

For the most part, young children have a natural ability to forgive one another.  Just like older kids, children may get angry and frustrated with their playmates and they often declare I’m not your friend anymore!  Then a few minutes later the matter is forgotten and they are playing amicably with their counterpart again.  As children get older, however, they learn some harmful habits like keeping score, expecting everything to be fair all of the time, and holding grudges.  At times, parents can even be found holding grudges for their children.  As such, it becomes increasingly important to cultivate and nurture a forgiving attitude.  If adolescents fail to learn to forgive, their lives.......read more