Be mentally and physically present when you talk with people. Multitasking will convey your lack of interest and undermine your connection.



Have a family game plan for unexpected injuries. A piece of candy, a bandage, and/or a kiss. Suck, apply pressure, or add a hug. Do it the same every time.


Map skills are essential, even if you have GPS. Using hand-drawn or printed maps, start a family treasure hunt, appoint a preteen leader at the zoo, or sign up your spouse for a geocaching course.


Don’t give advice promises you can’t guarantee (Such as, I promise this will work . . .). Life is a risk. Suggest people weigh the outcomes, positive and negative.