Showing posts with label parenting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label parenting. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Perfect Parenting

A good book for parents is “Perfect Parenting” by Elizabeth Pantley. Sometimes parenting books are too strict in the subject matter. "Do this. Don't do that."  Pantley’s book was not like that. It was surprisingly easy to read and very resourceful.

You find an issue you are dealing with in the index, such as backtalk. The section then discusses that particular behavior, how common it is, what may be causing it and then a variety of solutions.

I found some helpful hints and would recommend it to other parents.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Raising Your Spirited Child

For any parent coping with a strong-willed or highly energetic child, "Raising Your Spirited Child" by Mary Sheedy is a good resource.

Some of the words used to describe kids in the "spirited" category are intense, sensitive, perceptive, persistent and energetic. If you ever thought your child may be hard to control or "difficult" this book gives strategies and helps change your perspective.

I’ve been told my children are strong-willed by their doctor, teachers, friends and family members. I actually read this book looking for ways to deal with my son’s behavior (intense, passionate, energetic). I ended up getting more out of it pertaining to my daughter (introverted, sensitive, perceptive). I feel like this book truly gave me some parenting skills I was lacking. Instead of viewing their behavior as "problematic" I took in some of the suggestions and also took the time to realize how truly wonderful those qualities will be in their adulthood. I don’t want to kill their spirit, in any way.

My son has been intense and passionate from the day he was born. He doesn’t do things halfway. I love his passion and I can’t wait to see what he does with his life; I forsee great success for him. My daughter struggles with her introverted nature. She marches to her own drummer, and I love that about her. I am touched by her kindness to others and her sensitivity toward those less fortunate than herself.

Nurturing all strong qualities in your children helps then develop amazing strengths throughout their life. Thinking of your child’s "problem" qualities in positive terms gives you a new insight.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Spiritual Parenting

Self development is an ongoing quest in my life. On the parenting front, “The Seven Spiritual Laws for Parents” by Deepak Chopra is a must read. The book focuses on how to help your child look internally, to the beauty within themselves and the world around them.

One important take away, for me, was asking your child each day how they made a difference. I used this question to prompt my daughter to think about things she has learned about herself, how her actions help others, or how she can be productive in society.

Focusing on the questions Chopra provides, I found myself learning more about my children and the things that make them feel special and valuable. One of my favorite parts was the daily focus ideas. An example: Monday is a day to focus on giving. Teach your child that if they want to get something, they need to give it in return. For example, if they want respect, they need to give it.

The book gives ideas on how to plant the seed of giving in your child by creating family rituals to reinforce values. I find myself going back to parts of this book again and again. Chopra has been inspirational in my life and this book added to that. I think this is a must-read for parents wishing to foster compassion and caring in their children.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Kids Listen?

"How to Talk so Kids will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk" by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish.

As a parent, I always strive to improve. I want my children to know that I love and respect them for their individuality. But seriously, sometimes my kids just do not listen. This is one of my main frustrations as a parent. I often feel like I am talking to myself and then I feel disrespected.

I saw this book title and thought it was worth a peek. I liked the format of the book and the ideas included.

For any parent that struggles to communicate effectively, this book offers hope and advice. It helped me evaluate the way I am speaking to the children and gave me ideas on how to alter that to get better response.