Setting boundaries isn’t easy. It’s exhausting to hold the line when your kid insists that “Everyone else gets unlimited screen time” or argues that “Homework should be optional.” Yet, every time we lovingly enforce boundaries, we’re helping them build the muscle of resilience—the ability to bounce back, learn from mistakes, and keep going.

As parents, nothing tugs at our hearts quite like seeing our kids struggle with friendships—whether they feel left out, navigate tricky social dynamics, or pick friends who aren’t great influences. It’s tough. And while we can’t make friends for them, we can equip them with the skills to build strong, healthy friendships that last.