A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds according to Childhelp. This statistic is alarming for anyone, let alone parents. Luckily, there are things you can do right now to help prevent child abuse:

1. Ask Questions

Do you know where your child is spending their time? Who they are with? When they are playing with friends? Do you ask how their day was? What their fears and hopes are? By asking questions you open a line of communication with your child. This helps improve your relationship, but also leads your child to be more open to communication if abuse does occur.

It's also important to let your child ask questions about abuse. Answer in a child appropriate way. Joan Cole Duffell, Executive Director of the nonprofit Committee for Children, says: "The best way to protect children from sexual abuse is to bring it out of the shadows. If we can break the taboo of talking about it, we will take away the offenders' best defense: secrecy." Make sure you and your child feel comfortable talking about all sorts of topics to help protect your child against abuse.

2. Listen

Too often parents listen with the intent to reply. Instead, try listening with the intent to understand. If your child is talking to you, drop everything else and make listening a priority. A 2014 survey showed that "a majority of kids (62 percent) say their parents are distracted when they are trying to talk to them." Put down your phone and pay attention to what your children are sharing with you. As a parent, if you are listening, you may be able to catch signs of potential abuse before it happens.

3. Educate your child and yourself

The facts of child abuse can seem overwhelming but it is imperative that you and your child understand the dangers and the help that is out there. Children should be taught about abuse in an age appropriate way.

With younger children, talking about touch is a good starting point. Talk about unwanted and uncomfortable touches. By explaining that there places that are and aren't appropriate to be touched by anyone, your child can determine what is right and wrong. Remember to distinguish that "bad" touches can feel good and that a "bad" touch is not determined by the way it feels but by what the child has been taught is wrong.

With both younger and older children it is appropriate to talk what tricks an abuser may use. Older children will benefit from learning about their bodies, warning signs and how to defend themselves in a bad situation. With all children, make it clear you can be approached and that they can be open with you about anything.

4. Instill safe boundaries

Make your expectations clear with your children. Teach them about healthy friendships with peers and adults. Help them understand the consequences of sneaking around and the importance of a curfew. Trust your instincts and encourage them to trust theirs. Teach assertiveness and allow your children to say "no" when appropriate.

5. Eliminate unsafe situations

It is important to be aware that a seemingly innocent situation can turn abusive quickly. An abuser tends to gain trust of the child and their family before victimizing a child. Let your child know that group settings are usually more safe then one-on-one situations. This does not mean abuse can't happen in groups so continue to be aware and attentive.

As a parent, do your part to monitor your child's technology and internet use. Even toddlers have access to tablets and devices, so you must be diligent even when they are young. Even in safe situations, it's important parents and child remain aware.

Abuse can happen even if you take all the correct steps. If abuse does occur, report it to local law enforcement by calling 911, The National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or by reaching out to a local victim advocate. There is help and there is hope. If you have any suspicion of child abuse, notify your local police department. Together we can make a safer environment for our children.

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It's the most wonderful time of the year, in every way but one. The overabundance of junk food! This time of year is magical aside from the plates of treats left on your porch, in the break room, at the ugly Christmas sweater party and in your pantry. So why do we overeat during the holidays? For starters, many people around us are doing it. Second, food is easily accessible. Third, it's how we socialize. And last, we think it helps us when we're stressed and stress is inevitable during the holidays.

Instead, apply these 5 tips in order to have yourself a healthier holiday:

1. Drink enough water

Researchshows that "Drinking a large, cool glass of water after you wake up fires up your metabolism by 24% for 90 minutes. It also shows that people who drink a glass of water before every meal lost 4.5 pounds over a three-month period, because "it fills up the stomach with a substance that has zero calories," and people "feel full as a result." Drinking water has numerous health benefits and will give you energy and hydration. Adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or fresh lemons has many benefits as well.

2. Slow down

By eating slower and chewing your food longer you will more fully enjoy what you're eating which will allow you to eat less since you will be satisfied with the healthy food you're eating. A growing number of studies confirm that just by eating slower, you'll consume fewer calories. We are busy enough in the holidays, so we don't always get to enjoy what we're doing. Instead, let's learn to enjoy healthy food!

3. Allow yourself an occasional treat

Ditch the "Cheat Day" method. If you dedicate an entire day to eat unhealthy and as much as you want, you reset what your body has worked on all week. Allow your body to fully adapt to a healthier lifestyle. Two treats a week will not derail you, but an entire cheat day can. You also tend to feel guilty after a cheat day and will likely give up easier. Research shows (and experts agree) that "sprinkling reasonably sized desserts or treats into your daily diet encourages you to find pleasure in meal time again."

4. Be patient with yourself

Don't get discouraged if eating less, eating healthier and changing your diet is difficult. Dr. Maltz teaches, "It takes 21 days to form a new habit." Remind yourself food will always be there. Even after the holidays. You are not missing out on anything by not overeating at the dessert table. In fact, you are gaining self-control, energy, better metabolism and the list goes on and on.

5. Remove and replace the temptation

Don't be the one to buy the junk food. If it's not in your house, the chances of you eating it are much less. Instead fill your fridge with whole food options. Enjoy holiday sweet potatoes, cranberry relish, and natural apple cider and remember a small piece of pumpkin pie is still OK. When you can't control what food is provided look for the healthiest option. Learn to socialize without food. Engage in an annual scarf exchange, read a good book or find new healthy recipes to share with friends.

You don't need to overeat or indulge in junk food to enjoy this wonderful time of year. Make a goal to end this year off right and kick start next year's resolutions with a healthier lifestyle.

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Domestic violence is most common among women ages 18-24. Chances are you know someone, or know of someone who is caught in the world of abuse. "1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been physically abused by an intimate partner." Domestic violence becomes more prevalent if we are silent, but together we can speak up, reach out and make a difference.

If you know someone who needs your help, follow these tips to approaching their difficult situation:

Be supportive

Talking with your loved one is a good place to start, but listening is even better. It is usually very difficult for a victim to talk about the abuse, so remember to be patient and considerate when they are expressing their feelings. Add your calming influence to their chaos. Because domestic victimization is correlated with ahigher rate of depression and suicidal behavior, your listening ear can reassure the victim that they are not alone, they are loved and there is hope.

Don't blame the victim

Likely, the victim is already feeling heavy amounts of guilt about their situation. No matter the circumstance, abuse is never the victim's fault. Empower the victim and remind them of the absolute control and power they have over their own life. Grant them permission to take charge of their future and look toward hope.

Help with a safety plan

A safety plan is one way to escape abuser. Helping your loved one make a plan of where to go, what to pack and when to leave can help them find solace and sanctuary in a crucial situation. In critical moments, it may be hard for the victim to think clearly, so having the plan written down or made before hand can help tremendously. The link above can give you directions on making a step-by-step safety plan.

It's important to remember that your loved one may never follow through and leave their abuser. That is their choice. Continue to be supportive if that is the case. You cannot "rescue" a victim. They must decide how to move forward in their situation and where to turn for help.

Provide resources

Providing the correct resources to the victim can allow them to help themselves escape or find a safe haven. While you may not have all the answers or help for a loved one, there are people, organizations and hotlines that can provide victims of domestic abuse with what they need. Encourage them to reach out to these resources.

For help, call: The national domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY).

Or visit http://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/help-for-abused-and-battered-women.htm

Together we can raise awareness of domestic abuse and rescue those who live in hostile circumstances.

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"It's very inexpensive to give a compliment" - Mark Twain

I grow a garden in my backyard, and it reminds me in many ways of my marriage. If I give the garden good compost, water and plenty of care, it flourishes. When I forget about the garden, even just for one day, the plants start to wilt and the soil begins to dry up. If I let it go unattended for too long, I most certainly would lose some plants and have to put in considerable effort to revive them again. Compliments to your husband are much like garden care.

Life coach Shannon Battle says, "In a world where people often feel alone and disconnected, a simple compliment triggers feelings of self-worth." As you compliment the man you love, you too will feel a true sense of appreciation and achievement as it makes your husband a more confident man. Research has shown that compliments help improve performance in a similar way to receiving a cash reward.

Try using these compliments on your husband and watch his confidence soar:

1. "I believe in you"

What you think of yourself defines your life. So when someone believes in you, you can believe in your potential. Letting your husband know you believe in him, allows him to achieve his true potential.

2. "You are my best friend"

A group at the University of Virginia studied brain scans from 22 different people. Scientists discovered that the brain activity of a person in danger, versus when a friend is, is essentially the same. "Our self comes to include who we become close to," says James Coan, Psychologist and Director of the study. Reminding your husband that you care about him more than yourself can bring you closer together.

3. "I'm proud of you"

Be sure to let your husband know you are proud of him. Build his self-esteem. Never tease him in public or put him down in a hurtful way. If you build him up, he will perform his best for you.

4. "I forgive you"

Don't allow resentment to hurt your marriage. "Studies have found that the act of forgiveness can reap huge rewards for your health, including improving sleep, reducing pain, and reducing levels of anxiety, depression and stress."

Let your husband know that when he has made a mistake, you will forgive, forget and work towards regained trust and admiration.

5. "I trust you"

Let your husband know you trust his decisions, his character, his intentions and his love. If he feels secure with you, he won't go looking for confidence from anyone else.

6. "You're right"

Your husband won't always be right, but when he is it's OK to tell him that. Men want to be acknowledged that they are intelligent. Give him a confident boost like this and you will be the one reaping the benefits as he falls even more in love with you.

7. "You bring me joy"

Aren't we all just looking for happiness? If your husband knows he is the one that adds the most joy to your life, he will continually try and bring happiness to you.

8. "I am attracted to you"

Fan the flame, wives! Just because you're married doesn't mean you should stop telling him how handsome he is to you. You might think he knows that, but don't assume. He needs to know he's the only one you see. This compliment may even lead to a romantic night in.

9. "I respect you"

Men pride themselves on their wives' respect. Remind him often that you support him and respect his decisions and the way he handles himself.

"10. Thank you for helping me"

Don't forget to thank your husband. He wants to help and make you happy, but he also wants to know it means something to you and you don't just take it for granted. Praise him for all he does for you.

11. "I love you"

This is the best compliment of all. Unconditional love is the greatest gift you can offer to your husband. He won't go looking for love elsewhere if he know he has all the love he needs from you.

12. "You are so smart"

Likely, your husband has worked hard the whole time you've been married. Over that time he has gained knowledge in certain skills or trades. Let him know you are proud of his success and how you love the knowledge he has gained.

13. "I love spending time with you"

If your husband feels valued he will choose you over others. Make the time you spend with your spouse meaningful and fulfilling. He will in turn do the same for you.

14. "I am safe with you"

A man wants to protect his greatest belongings. He takes a sense of pride in his strength. Also remind him you feel safe coming to him with concerns, problems and doubts and that you love the way he handles the situation.

15. "I miss you"

Letting your husband know you want him around will make him more excited to be with you. If he knows his presence makes a positive difference in your life he will want to be with you more than anyone else.

Enjoy the more confident, loving man you will soon find after complimenting his greatest strengths.

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An unknown source once said, "Entitlement is a delusion built on self-centeredness and laziness."

Dr. Twenge warns that, "Narcissists lack empathy, overreact to criticism and favor themselves over others. They are incapable of cheering anyone else's success. Ultimately, they lead miserable lives because they cannot form and maintain healthy relationships." We live in a world of instant gratification. With one tap on a smartphone, you can essentially have whatever you want. Patience is a virtue, but it is a rare one in the rising generation. We hurt our children if we let them lead entitles lives. We will enrich our children and their future success if we teach them how to be deserving of what life has to offer.

Here are some tips to help raise deserving children.

Let them be bored

Constantly entertaining your children will not serve them well as they enter adulthood. College professors, co-workers and religious leaders won't fulfill that constant need for attention. Denying your children to "be bored" will teach them to rely on themselves for gratification and a sense of accomplishment. Unstructured time allows for the growth of their creativity and imagination. This will encourage them to find what pleases them. It allows children to find a passion that their heart desires. It gives children the power to choose for themselves how they will structure and manage their time.

Set expectations

Children need boundaries, structure, love and most definitely expectations. We should not set unrealistic expectations on our children, but we need to teach them how to take responsibility for their actions. They should be held accountable as a child, because inevitably, they will be held accountable in their lives as adults. Establish both good and bad consequences. Make sure your children have a clear outline of what you expect of their behavior, attitude, work around the house and at school and the way they should treat others.

Set an allowance

Teaching children to manage money will help them plan for their future. Children are quick to ask for money, and parents are quick to give it. The real world doesn't work like that. Allowing your children the opportunity to earn money, take pride in their accomplishment, then budget for needs and wants will help them be more financially successful as adults.

Let them fail

Don't intervene on every mistake. Let your children be responsible and solve situations on their own, when applicable. Let them figure out a bad grade, writing thank you notes and finishing homework. It's a part of growing up and if they know you will always take care of the hard things for them, they will never learn to depend on themselves for success. The feeling of accomplishment that comes to a child when they do something for themselves will help them learn how to become independent and strong. Mistakes can teach us a lot about ourselves. If the mistakes aren't detrimental, allow them to happen.

Don't bribe your children's behavior

If children expect a reward anytime they do something good, they will have a harder time doing the right thing if there is no tangible profit in sight. We must teach our children to do what's right because it is the right thing, not because it is rewarded. The benefit and gain of good behavior is a sense of pride and accomplishment. Our children will be better adults if we take the time to teach them this principle while they are in our care.

Monitor screen time

Children live in a world where everything is "on demand." With the click of a button, you can essentially get anything you want in a short amount of time. We have robbed our children of the joy of working hard, anticipation and endurance. A recent study found that 38 percent of 2 to 5-year-olds own an Android tablet and 32 percent own an iPad; almost a third of these kids also have a mobile phone. The study goes on to explain the harm associated with too much screen time. Establish rules and guidelines that work for you and your children.

Have a chore chart

Whatever way you institute chores, follow through. Teaching your children responsibility. All character traits are learned and many are developed as youth. Perseverance and good work ethic doesn't just come to our children, it comes as we prepare them for these traits.

Boost your child's self-worth

If your children know their worth in your eyes, they will want to make you proud and do their best. By giving your children the confidence they need to rely on themselves and not others, we are helping them help themselves. Raising independent, self-sustaining, hard-working children is one of the greatest contributions you can give society.

Serve as a family

Serving others, especially those who don't have as much as you, allows your children to gain compassion. Children are bound to feel less entitled if they serve a family who has less than they do. Give your children the experience to help others who need you, and serve alongside them to set the example. Getting rid of unnecessary material items is not only good for your children to learn to simplify, but it can help them learn that giving to others enhances their lives and the lives of the recipients.

We want to raise responsible children in an ever-growing entitled world. Communicate with your children what is necessary for them to succeed and give unconditional love. We have the power to raise our children to be a deserving generation. Give them the gift of self-reliance and hard work.

"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." - Proverb

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Research shows that positive self-talk can increase your lifespan, help your physical and emotional health, strengthen your well-being and provide better coping skills during hardships and times of stress. Self-talk is the voice in your mind that controls your thoughts about yourself and your life. Reachout.com states "What you say in your mind can determine a lot of how you feel about who you are."

When you get ready in the morning, look at yourself in the mirror with a smile on your face and tell yourself these 8 things. If you say these phrases enough you will not only succeed but believe what you are telling yourself:

1. "Today is a good day."

Every day is a new start, a new chance at being positive. Do not bring negative thoughts from the prior day into your morning. Start your day off right by using this phrase before anything else can enter your mind and deter your thoughts from this fact. Your thought pattern will begin to change as you believe every morning can be positive.

2. "I love who I am."

The world pressures us to feel inferior. There will always be someone smarter, more successful, skinnier or prettier. The key is to come to love ourselves for who we are and who we are trying to become. Remember that saying this doesn't mean you stop trying to improve, it means you come to love yourself for your flaws and for trying to improve on them.

3. "I accept the things I cannot change."

Life is unpredictable. Throughout your day you will encounter good things, hard things, bad things, and happy things. You cannot count on others to find joy, but by accepting what may be difficult for you, you will gain courage and confidence in accepting change.

4. "I succeed in my endeavors."

While you won't be successful in everything, you can always succeed at trying. By reminding yourself every morning of this, you will find determination to always try no matter the circumstances.

5. "The past is behind me."

You have control of your future. While you cannot always forget troubles of the past days, you can move forward with a hope for today. You have the power to leave the burden of yesterday behind. Take a deep breath and focus on the day you have in front of you.

6. "I am strong."

This is not just a reference to your physical strength. While you may benefit from a strong, healthy body what is just as important is an able mind. You have the strength you need to conquer fears, meet deadlines, handle trials in your family, and deal with the pressures of life. You are strong enough to deal with emotional situations. You are in charge of your mind and body- choose to be strong.

7. "All is well."

A study has shown that 90% of one's happiness has to do with your general outlook on life. If your outlook is that things are going well, then your life will go well. You are still subject to heartache, pain and sadness, but your joy will increase if you believe and know "All is well."

8. "I am enough."

You are good enough, smart enough, kind enough and pretty enough. Perfection is not necessary. Set achievable goals you want to accomplish then believe that you are loved and supported by those around you.

Replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts. Say those positive thoughts out loud with confidence. Make uplifting phrases a routine. Positive self-talk takes practice. You may not see results right away, but as you put these good phrases into practice you will improve your quality of life.

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"Everybody likes a compliment." -Abraham Lincoln

Compliments can help your children grow or stunt their progress depending on how the compliment is given. By complimenting the child's action and effort, rather than a broad compliment of the child themselves, can significantly motivate your child to be better and feel better. "Research has shown that we all learn our belief systems as little children. It is the very belief system that functions as the foundation of our entire life." Positive affirmations as a child will greatly benefit our lives as adults.

Here are eight compliments your children need to hear from you:

1. "I believe in you."

Your child needs to know that whether they are succeeding at the moment, or not, that you have not given up on their ability to succeed. Believing in your child's ability to accomplish their goals will give them the motivation they need to become better.

2. "That choice makes me proud."

Some choices won't make you proud, but applauding the good choices will encourage your children to continue making wise decisions in order to gain your praise. Your children want to know that you haven't forgotten their efforts to make you proud.

3. "I appreciate your ability to ___."

Really look for the areas your child is excelling in. If they know you believe they are capable of being kind, diligent, honest, or happy they will begin to believe it themselves and act on upon the compliment they are receiving. For example, if you say "I appreciate your ability to work hard." Your child will strive to work hard in the future knowing that effort is acknowledged.

4. "I'm thankful you're in our family."

Children have a need to belong. They are trying to fit in at school, with friends or in youth groups. Remind them often they are crucial to your life and that you are grateful for them. When they feel accepted for who they are and who they are becoming they will feel comfortable around you, which allows for open communication and trust.

5. "I can trust you to be honest with me."

Complimenting your child's character and integrity will help them strive for greatness. Remind your child that if they are honest you can trust them.

6. "You made a good choice."

Affirming your child's decision can help their self-confidence. "Overpraising a child can get them hooked on success and celebration instead of being satisfied by their own accomplishment." We want our children to be satisfied and happy not entitled to constant praise. Teach your child that with good decisions come praise, and bad decisions come consequences.

7. "I know you did your best."

When your child has given a good effort it is critical to offer praise for the attempt. If they didn't give their best, an alternative is to say "You have a great attitude." Continue to urge them to try better. Encourage positive behavior so when failures come they will be reminded they can always try again to do their best.

8. "I love you."

While this may not sound like a compliment it is the most important you can give. Your child's potential is endless if they know they are loved. Your child will trust you more if you always show your love for them. Saying I love you releases endorphins in the brain that bring joy to a child. Saying "I love you" can actually help your children learn and succeed.

It is our job as parents to give our children hope, love and confidence. The right compliments can bring success and joy to our children. Never stop teaching them and give praise when necessary. Provide a strong, positive foundation in your child's life for them to build their future on.

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Did you know 90 percent of child sexual abuse victims know the abuser in some way?

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Follow these tips to prevent abuse from happening to your children.

1. Open communication

Children who report sexual abuse often tell adults they trust other than their parents. Allow for opportunities to talk openly with your children. Allow them to feel safe discussing problems and concerns.

If your children know you trust them, they will come to you more often. Encourage your children to share their feelings with you.

2. Nurture your children

Children need confidence to know how they deserve to be treated. Through love and quality time spent with them, your children will come to know from you how they should be treated by others. They will feel uncomfortable with abuse because it is not the way they are treated at home.

Stay positive with you children when they're struggling, and they will feel safe in your presence.

3. Educate your children

Talk to you children about their bodies. Set safe boundaries of what is acceptable and what is not. As children get older, educate them about safe sex and how abstinence is the safest choice.

Teach your children their rights. Children are more likely to report abuse if they know abuse is never their fault.

4. Ask questions

Don't go to bed without asking how your teenager's night out with friends went. Ask your young children how their experience was at the neighbor's house.

Don't let the hard questions go unasked. Give your child the opportunity to share honest concerns and problems with you.

5. Be involved

Know who your children's friends are. Know where they go and what they do. Set curfews and rules that you enforce with love so your children know you want them protected.

Monitor you child's use of technology and social media. Spend time strengthening family bonds and getting to know your child's interests and hobbies.

6. Follow parental intuition

This goes for all aspects of your life as a parent. If you don't feel right about a situation, trust that feeling. 59 percent of abused children are abused by people the family feels are trustworthy. You know better than anyone what is safe for your children.

Be aware of your surroundings. Don't leave a child alone with anyone if you are not comfortable with the situation. Listen to your children's concerns. If they do not feel safe, then there might be a good reason not to leave them. Check in regularly to assess the situation when your child is alone with someone else.

Preventing child abuse begins in the home with involved, caring parents. Work together as a family to learn about abuse prevention and talk openly about children's rights to say no. Children rely on their parents to be nurtured and cared for. If they receive that in the home, they will expect others to treat them the same way.

If you suspect child abuse, contact the nationwide child abuse reporting hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453).

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