149. How can we shape kids' futures?

In another heartfelt and humorous episode, Andrew and Caroline dive into one of the biggest questions parents face: What does it take to raise kids who are happy, content, and good people?

With real-life anecdotes, laughter, and a touch of philosophy, they explore the power of modelling behaviour, the importance of gratitude and connection, and how to set your kids up for long-term contentment. Plus, tips for embracing your own growth as a parent!

Don't miss this engaging discussion packed with insights and plenty of laughs.

Homework Ideas for Parents

Model One New Behaviour. Choose a specific trait you want your kids to develop (e.g., kindness, patience, or gratitude). Commit to modeling it consciously for one week and reflect on the changes.

The Gratitude Jar Challenge.  Start a family gratitude jar where everyone contributes small notes about things they’re thankful for each day. Watch how it sparks conversations and shifts the family dynamic.

Everyday Acts of Kindness. Practice one small act of kindness each day (e.g., holding a door, complimenting someone, or leaving a thank-you note). Talk about these moments with your kids.

Family Reflection Night.  Set aside one evening to reflect on what you value most as a family. Ask each member to share what they learned by observing others in the family that week.

Here are some conversation starters for deepening family discussions. They’re organized by themes to suit different moods and topics:

Gratitude & Positivity

• What’s one thing that made you smile today, and why?
• Who’s someone outside our family you’re grateful for, and what have they done to inspire you?
• If you could give a thank-you note to anyone in the world, who would it be and what would it say?

Self-Reflection & Growth

• What’s one thing you’ve done recently that you’re really proud of?
• What’s a mistake you’ve learned the most from, and how did it change you?
• If you could instantly master a skill, what would it be and why?

Dreams & Goals

• What’s one thing you’d love to accomplish in the next year?
• If money and time weren’t an issue, what’s one thing you’d want to do as a family?
• What does “success” mean to you, and how do you think you’ll know when you’ve achieved it?

Family Memories

• What’s one of your favorite family traditions, and why does it mean so much to you?
• What’s a memory that makes you laugh every time you think about it?
• What’s a lesson you’ve learned from someone in the family that you’ll never forget?

Values & Character

• What do you think it means to be a “good person”?
• How can we show kindness to people we don’t know well?
• What’s a value or rule you think is really important for our family to live by?

Dealing with Challenges

• What’s something hard you’ve gone through recently, and how did you deal with it?
• How do you like to be supported when you’re feeling upset?
• If you could give one piece of advice to someone going through a tough time, what would it be?

Fun & Imagination

• If you could design the perfect day, what would it look like?
• If you could trade lives with any character from a book or movie

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