Dear Joyce, I do not like Halloween, so I do not let my children dress up and celebrate this holiday. My oldest daughter loves dressing up and is upset with my decision. What are your thoughts? Sharon Dear Sharon, I must admit that Halloween was not my favorite holiday. I never enjoyed dressing up and putting outfits together on a limited budget always seemed like a chore. Many people…
Parenting
Growing in Character
Dear Joyce, Now that your children are grown, what do you think I should focus on as a mom? I have three children, and I want to make sure I can look back 20 years from now and know that I did it “right!†Thanks, Susan Dear Susan, I have been a mom for 40 years and now have a better understanding that being a mom is a “ministry†with…
Dear Joyce, My daughter started school for the first time . . .
Dear Joyce, My daughter started school this year for the first time (1st grade). She was previously home schooled. Everything is going well, but she’s emotional, and I’m afraid that the first time that she gets into trouble, she’ll fall apart. For example, she almost got a yellow (everyone starts on green), and she started crying. Is there something I should do to prepare her? Betty Dear Betty, Typically,…
Dear Joyce & Marv, I’m worried about Middle School . . .
Dear Joyce and Marv, I am so worried about my oldest child who is starting Middle School in September. I hear that there are drugs, bad language, and gangs in schools. Help!!! Dorothy Dear Dorothy, Peer influence is a reality. Be encouraged that your home is still the biggest influence on your child’s life. Prepare your child by talking about issues and what to do when confronted with them. Church…