President Obama stood in front of thousands of students last week and asked them to “put your best effort into all that you do.” He challenged them to take the personal responsibility, to set goals for their futures, and to be accountable and put in the hard work it will take to reach those goals. And he reminded them: “I’ve talked about your parents’ responsibility for making sure you stay on track, get your homework done, and don’t spend every waking hour in front of the TV or with the Xbox.” For President Obama’s full speech visit President Obama’s Address to Students.

As parents and educators we play a big role in helping our nation’s kids be inspired, stay on track and be prepared for a bright future. This can be a tall order in this digital world where our kids are coming of age — in a culture of consumerism, screen time and immediate gratification. Here are ten important actions you can take right now to help set up children for success.

The Top 10 Tips to Raise Happy, Self-Reliant Kids:

1. Spend twice as much time and half as much money

2. Support; don’t rescue. Encourage; don’t coddle.

3. Get them what they need but not everything they want.

4. Back up teachers and schools.

5. Take charge of media.

6. Set clear and high expectations.

7. Give chores.

8. Set and enforce limits and consequences.

9. Encourage volunteering.

10.Become a Say Yes to No parent

Visit http://www.sayyestono.org/index.html

Getting the best out of our kids will take all of us. Are you ready?

Dr. Dave