The Blueprint for Raising Happy, Decent, and Successful Kids Finally, a book that shows you how to teach kids the eight indispensable skills-self-confidence, self-awareness, communication, problem solving, getting along, goal setting, perseverance, and empathy-they'll need for living confident, happy, and productive lives. Filled with step-by-step advice, practical ideas, and real-life examples, Parents Do Make a Difference puts field-tested tools into the hands of every parent and teacher who wants their children to succeed. "The fact is this may well be the only book you'll ever need on raising great children." - from the Foreword by Jack Canfield, coauthor of "Chicken Soup for the Soul® " "This book will be a boon for parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to make an enduring difference in a child's life." - Thomas Lickona, author of "Educating for Character" "A must-read, user-friendly collection of stories, facts, and practical suggestions that will help parents who want their children to become competent, confident, and contributing adults." - Jane Bluestein, author of "Parents, Teens and Boundaries" and "The Parent's Little Book of Lists: Dos and Don'ts of Effective Parenting" "I hope this book finds its way into homes all over the country. I know that the strategies, ideas, and activities it provides can make a tremendous difference in the lives of our children." - Thomas Armstrong, author of "Awakening Your Child's Natural Genius and In Their Own Way