How do we bring the best out in our boys, so they become the best of men? I think boys can turn into better men if we teach our sons that they don’t have to fight the world. And so, with practice — it didn’t come naturally to me — I smile and say, “They’re great kids.” That’s the overheard praise. Parents need to be self-aware to realize there’s value in the quiet moments and allow space for spontaneous contributions. Or if the parent goes to counseling or therapy to let them know I’m going to therapy, and all too often it’s kept a secret.

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Persons: Shelly Flais, “, ” Flais, Flais, Mom ”, You’ve, “ you’ve, ” That’s, you’re, we’re, It’s, it’s, That’s, they’re, Shannon Carpenter, Dad ” Organizations: CNN Locations: American