This vital question is taking on a new urgency as our culture grows ever more abrasive and divided.

We all want our kids to be kind. But recognizing that abstractly is not the same as knowing what to do when your son tunes you out or you catch your daughter mocking a classmate who is struggling to fit in. A world-renowned developmental psychologist, Dr. Thomas Lickona has led the character education movement in schools for 25 years and now he shares with parents the vital tools they need to create a culture of kindness at home. Kindness doesn't stand on its own. It needs a supporting cast of other essential virtues - like self-control, good judgment, courage and gratitude. So many things in our society teach a message of selfishness that it takes hard work to foster strong character in our kids. Lickona offers a program for all parents, including those who are struggling - and the confidence it can work.

With concrete examples drawn from the many families he has worked with and clear tips you can act on tonight, How to Raise Kind Kids will help you give and get respect, hold family meetings to tackle persistent problems, set up age-appropriate chores, get control of screens, tackle sibling cruelty, discipline in a way that builds character, and improve the dynamic of your relationship with your children, while putting them on the path to a happier and more fulfilling life.