Most parents misguidedly prioritize behavior. The why and how to instill character . Behavior modification does not guarantee good character qualities. Character influences decisions. It’s evidenced in our speech, actions, and attitudes. It’s about who we are and what we do. The world competes for the hearts of our kids—and we see its negative impact in their pride, laziness, and entitlement. As Christians, however, we want to see the character of Jesus Christ in our children. Dads and moms, grandparents, and teachers all want to see their children grow in humility, gratitude, and respect—for others and themselves. We want our kids to be brave, compassionate, and joyful. We don’t want our kids to flounder through life. We want them to flourish and live into their God-given designs and callings. Dr. Kathy Koch helps us to that end by answering essential questions: What is character and why does it matter? - Why is there a crisis of character? - What are the challenges in developing character? - How can we teach or improve character? Not only does character help us accomplish our goals, there are many other benefits of mature character: we will be blessed, stand out for Jesus, attract good friends, grow in wisdom, and live in freedom. Koch provides an invaluable resource for shepherding our children in godly character. “As parents, we sometimes get stuck in survival mode. We default to putting out the fires of bad behavior. Dr. Kathy Koch focuses on fire prevention . She challenges us to develop godly character in our kids by instilling critical core values early, at every opportunity. Check out her insights on raising courageous, compassionate kids who can set the world ablaze for Christ!” — JIM DALY President, Focus on the Family “As a parent, I have always strived to raise my children with strong character and values, knowing these qualities will shape their lives and impact the world around them. That’s why I love this book! In Parent Differently , Dr. Kathy Koch explores the fundamental questions of what character truly is and how it can be nurtured in our children. From understanding how children develop mature character to the connection between character and obedience, Dr. Kathy provides a solid foundation for parents to build upon. I felt encouraged and inspired to take an active role in shaping my children’s character while acknowledging the unique gifts and strengths they possess. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to parents committed to making a positive difference in their children’s lives and the world they inherit!” — TRICIA GOYER Wife, mom, podcast host, and bestselling author of over 80 books, including Calming Angry Kids: Hope and Help for Parents in the Trenches “In Parent Differently , Dr. Koch draws us back to the core essentials and necessity of biblical character development in our children. In her usual Scripture-based practical gentle leading, she challenges without shaming, inspires without being ‘preachy,’ and gives hope without illusion. Way to go, Kathy. Once again, you’ve knocked it out of the park.” — MARK HANCOCK CEO, Trail Life USA “The Bible shows us that Jesus loved, valued, and celebrated children at a time and in a culture that largely ignored them. This radical example of Jesus is just one insight that Kathy Koch draws out in this book to help parents see the exciting opportunity to shape and build the character of their children. Kathy offers encouragement and practical guidance for parents and caring adults who want to parent differently by suggesting they look first to their own beliefs and values, using those as a springboard for loving and teaching children. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, mentor, or teacher, Kathy’s book can inspire you to consider the ways that you can nurture and celebrate the kids in your life and help them thrive as they build biblical character!” — KAREN PEARSON President, Kids Hope USA “Once again, Dr. Kathy has provided sound tools for a parent’s toolbox with her latest work, Parent Differently . Her no-nonsense approach and clear calls to action will help any parent begin the important journey of character development within their child. This intentional approach to an area of human development that has traditionally been more ‘caught than taught’ will result in a generation of kids that could restore civility and decorum into our culture. Character is king despite one’s choice of vocation, and parents need to understand its importance. As a thought leader in youth character development for over three decades, I cannot more heartily endorse Parent Differently . It should be a staple in your parenting library!” — PATTI GARIBAY Founder and Executive Director, American Heritage Girls, Inc. “Dr. Kathy has done it again! She has put practical, God-glorifying parenting on an accessible shelf for us all. From, ‘In the beginning, God,’ to ‘The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all,’ God has revealed to us who He is and that He