Child Development Tips

We all want our kids to be motivated, right? But how do you turn a kid who’d rather binge-watch TikTok into a motivated mini-adult? According to Eric Barker, author of Barking Up the Wrong Tree, it’s less about yelling and more about smart goal-setting. After he pulled together insights from experts on how to get motivated, we’ve taken his findings and tailored them for intentional parents like you. Let’s explore a few strategies to help our children. Make It Fun First Kids thrive on enjoyment. If something feels like a […]

As parents, we want our children to grow into confident, capable leaders. Whether taking charge on the playground, in the classroom, or later in life, strong leadership skills help them navigate challenges and inspire others. Nurturing leadership skills helps kids become more confident, responsible, and creative problem-solvers. Moreover, they learn to work well with others and adapt to challenges. Leadership isn’t just something kids are born with—it’s a skill they can develop with practice and guidance. Practical Ways to Nurture Leadership Skills Leadership development can start right at home. Here’s […]

Hey there, fellow parents and youth-serving professionals! Let’s chat about adolescents. Ever wonder why they act the way they do? Well, it turns out that status and respect are huge drivers of adolescent behavior. But here’s the kicker–these are deeply rooted in their sense of competence and belonging. For sure, understanding adolescent behavior can feel like navigating an unpredictable storm. However, a closer look at the dynamics of respect, status, and competence reveals a clear path forward. Insights from the fantastic recent book 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating […]

Parenting often feels like a balancing act between nature and nurture. You might wonder how much of your child’s essence is set in stone and how much you can shape your child’s personality. Luckily, research gives us some clear insights. A blog post from Eric Barker breaks down the science of personality development.  Personality Isn’t Fixed—It Evolves Many parents assume their child’s personality is hardwired. Science tells us otherwise. While genetics play a role, experiences can shape a child’s personality over time. With the right guidance, you can help your […]

As intentional parents, we want our children to be emotionally intelligent (EI) to help them navigate life’s challenges. A recent article by Bill Murphy Jr. highlights three key questions that high EI individuals ask to become more likable and offer better advice. Let’s explore these questions and how we can apply them to parenting. Unlock Your Child’s Perspective, i.e.”What do you think you should do?” There is much power in understanding another person’s perspective. A person with a high EQ will ask “What does that look like to you?” or […]

We all crave connection. Whether it’s with friends, family, or even strangers, happier relationships have a huge impact on our well-being. According to research summarized by Eric Barker on his blog Barking Up the Wrong Tree, strong social ties aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential for happiness. Why Connection Matters Meaningful connections are crucial for our health and contentment. People with strong social connections tend to live longer, experience less stress, and feel a greater sense of purpose. In fact, loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a […]

What does it take to build a relationship that thrives? Eric Barker’s insightful article on emotionally intelligent relationships reveals practical strategies that intentional parents can also apply to their families. Let’s explore how these principles can nurture meaningful connections with your child. The Power of Listening Listening is more than hearing words. Emotionally intelligent individuals focus on truly understanding others. Parents can model this by giving children their full attention during conversations. Avoid distractions, ask open-ended questions, and reflect on what your child says. By being an active listener, you’re […]

Arguments can be stressful, especially when dealing with loved ones. Eric Barker’s article on “How to Win Arguments” offers valuable insights that intentional parents can use. Below are some key strategies from the article and how they can foster healthy communication in your family. (Full article here at: Barking Up The Wrong Tree) Keep Your Cool If someone is throwing a tantrum, remember to be the cool cucumber. Label your emotions internally and focus on their left eye. It sounds weird, but it works! Focus on Facts, Not Feelings When […]