Don't assume your child is weak. If you, the parent, assume that they can't take anymore, what kind of signal are you sending them?

Chinese parents believe that their kids owe them everything.

Once you get to the Enlightenment, the way that powers get to be hyperpowers isn't just by conquest. It's through commerce and innovation. Societies like the Dutch Republic and the United States used tolerance to become a magnet for enterprising immigrants.

Instilling a sense of self-discipline and focus when the kids are younger makes it so much easier by the time they get into high school.

Some parents let their kids sleep at other people's houses, where they drink alcohol, watch TV for hours and God knows what else. But if you say you have to get all A's and practice the violin for two hours, then they consider that abusive. That upsets me.

My dogs can't do anything--and what a relief. I don't make any demands of them, and I don't try to shape them or their future. For the most part, I trust them to make the right choices for themselves. I always look forward to seeing them, and I love just watching them sleep. What a great relationship.

I sort of feel like people are not that honest about their own parenting. Take any teenage household; tell me there is not yelling and conflict.