What if there are benefits to keeping your son busy?

Children and teens are spending more time in front of screens than ever before, and their mental and physical health is suffering for it. But instead of focusing on getting your son away from the screen, what about trying to keep him so busy he doesn’t have time for his phone or TV?

It may take lots of trial and error to find what your son likes. Some unique ideas include joining a robotics club, volunteering at a local radio station,  helping at a horse stable, or even coaching a little league baseball team.

When your son does find what he enjoys, encourage him to pursue that with excellence. When it’s the right activity, busy is not always bad.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“The kids are alright” was an iconic rock song by the Who. But unfortunately that phrase no longer rings true when it comes to young men in our society.

Boys today are struggling with rising rates of depression and anxiety, and underperforming girls at every academic level.  The boys are “not alright.”

So what can we do? The key is to go back to the basics. Boys need less time sitting down in school. They need more freedom to run, explore, play, and take healthy risks. One way to do this is to declare a “no screens” day once a week. Use that day to fish, hike, or volunteer with your son. I can guarantee your day will be more than just “alright”-- and your son will be too.

To learn about raising godly boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

This parenting tip may surprise you.

When your son is struggling with anger, your instinct may be to address his behavior. But did you know that, in boys, anger is often just a mask for a much deeper issue?

Child development specialists have found that, in boys, slamming doors, yelling, or being mean to a sibling can actually be signs of intense anxiety.

When your son seems angry, consider what’s going on in his life. Is he struggling in school or sports, or going through a major life change?

If so, help him find healthier ways to cope. Encourage him to get exercise. Connect him with a positive male mentor from church. And memorize verses together about how God gives your son the courage he needs.

To learn about raising boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Going to theme parks and ball games with the family isn’t cheap, and requires parents to say “No” to souvenirs, snacks, and other requests.

That’s okay. Boys need to learn moderation and the value of a buck.

But let’s say your son “gets it” and shows genuine appreciation. If you can swing it, next time – before you go through the gate – announce, “This is a splurge outing.” Budget some extra cash and let the family know you will try to say “Yes” to just about any request.

You may discover your son doesn’t abuse the privilege. His choices and purchases could be thoughtful and reasonable.

No matter what, your “splurge outing” can lead to healthy discussions about covetousness, God’s provision, and the source of true riches. For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Next time you’re at Wal-Mart or Hobby Lobby, spend about twenty bucks on a nice set of colored markers and a half dozen assorted poster boards. Then stash them in secret at home.

In the next year or so, your son is going to come to you as bedtime approaches with a look of terror on his face. “I need to make a poster for school that’s due tomorrow!”

You could say, “Too bad, too sad. Hope you learned a lesson.” You could race to the 24-hour drug store across town and pay triple for those supplies. Or you could magically produce them from your hidden stash!!

He’ll be grateful and amazed. And you’ll have that rare and wonderful feeling of being a hero to your son. For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Most of the time when your son messes up, he knows it. He has instant regrets. But it’s not easy to apologize.

Guilt, ego, and fear get in the way. He may feel unworthy of your love and forgiveness.

Consider the Prodigal son when he found himself broke, lonely, and even yearning for pig food. He was prepared to tell his father, “I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.”

But what did that dad do when he saw him a long way off? He ran to the boy!

Let’s do the same. When your son expresses sincere remorse, be eager to accept his apology. Maybe even throw him a party!

For more about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com. 

When your son starts questioning why God sometimes doesn’t make sense, turn to Isaiah 55 and explain that God’s thoughts are “higher” than ours.

Then, if you can, pull a cross stitch or embroidery off the wall. Turn that tapestry over so your son sees the tangled zig-zag of knots and loose threads on the back. Explain how that’s “our view,” and that life does get messy. Then turn it over and reveal “God’s view.”

That heavenly perspective – one we cannot possibly have yet – reveals perfect order. God’s plan is in place.

Then point out how the beauty of creation God provides in our temporary home proves that we can trust Him for an even more beautiful place in eternity.

We help parents share God’s purpose and glory with their sons. To learn more, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The best way to stay one step ahead of the latest technology might be … to ask your son!

Whether he’s 9 or 19, there’s a good chance he knows more than you.

Do a bit of research about emerging technologies in gaming and networking and then ask your son about it. He may be eager to show off his tech knowledge.

Treat him as an authority. Tell him you feel out of the loop and say, “Can you help me?” then let him teach you.

By  entering his world, you might identify stumbling blocks before they trip him up. You also may learn I.T. secrets you can use. Best of all, you’ll get new insight into that growing boy you love so much.

For more ways to connect with and protect your son, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Initially, a boy’s worldview comes from Mom and Dad.

Beginning around the age of 4 or 5—no matter what you have planned for his schooling—he will begin to learn things from other avenues. Cool, fun stuff. And maybe dangerous stuff.

Some is taught quite intentionally in textbooks and lesson plans. Other worldviews and attitudes come from friends, relatives, the kid down the street and the many screens he’ll come across in the decades to come.

From teachers, grandparents, and coaches, much of it will be good stuff! What a gift that is to your son!

But what about the bad stuff? As much as you would like, you can’t stop it all.

That’s why your son needs to develop his own personal faith and convictions. And that’s another reason to visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a new prescription for your glasses…

A comedy group once posted a fake commercial online for a device called “husband glasses.” When a wife put on the glasses, she no longer noticed the clutter in their home– but she could see a deer out of their window quite well.

That satire video points out an interesting truth. Starting from a very young age, boys and girls see the world quite differently. While girls focus on details, boys tend to be more skilled in noticing things that are far away– making them better hunters and protectors.

So, as a parent, be sure to put on your “son,” S-O-N, glasses. Give your son grace when he misses details. And encourage him to hone his visual strengths through outdoor activities— like archery or birdwatching.

For more ideas for raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.