WASHINGTON – Children are like wet cement and their personalities form early in life, says Kevin Leman.

And while boys need their fathers, Leman’s new book says mothers have a big influence on their sons.

“If you’re a good mom and you’ve got good limits and you love them and you listen to them, your kid is on the right track,” says Leman, author of “What a Difference a Mom Makes: The Indelible Imprint a Mom Leaves on Her Son’s Life.”

He notes that sometimes life with boys can be overwhelming, loud, annoying, strange and sometimes disgusting for mothers who didn’t grow up with brothers.

But he says the secret is, sons want to make their mother’s happy.

He says discipline and communication are important.

Strong moms who give encouragement, can communicate and can say “No,” have “a great opportunity to raise a good kid,” Leman says.

WTOP’s Randi Martin contributed to this report. Follow WTOP on Twitter.

(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)