Acclaimed as the essential guide for parents of children between the ages of three and six, this work is based on Dr. Severe's philosophy that children's behavior is often a reflection of their parents'. Each chapter teaches parents to adjust their own behavior to better handle a host of critical issues such as fussing at bedtime, tantrums, sibling rivalry, toilet training, setting limits, and more. The focus is not on what is wrong, but on what parents can do right.
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"Made me more aware of how my own behavior affects that of my kids. I think I knew this but it helps to be reminded. Helped me focus on phrasing things positively ("use your words" instead of "stop whining" or "no hitting.")I also like the examples of exactly what to say in certain situations. I think the biggest take-home message for me was to use positive reinforcement more often and be consistent in noticing when the kids are playing well, sharing, listening, etc. and frequently praising them for that. How often have I heard it - "catch them being good" - but it takes practice to do it well and consistently." — Sarah (4 out of 5 stars)
"Made me more aware of how my own behavior affects that of my kids. I think I knew this but it helps to be reminded. Helped me focus on phrasing things positively ("use your words" instead of "stop whining" or "no hitting.")I also like the examples of exactly what to say in certain situations. I think the biggest take-home message for me was to use positive reinforcement more often and be consistent in noticing when the kids are playing well, sharing, listening, etc. and frequently praising them for that. How often have I heard it - "catch them being good" - but it takes practice to do it well and consistently."
“The book is particularly helpful for first-time parents, who will find Severe’s step-by-step prescriptions—what to do when a toddler has a tantrum or how to handle time-outs—invaluable.”
" A must read for every parent of little ones, or parent to be. Loving, intelligent, logical, reality based, positive discipline strategies. Beautifully done. Most importantly, it works, and everyone's dignity is still intact. "
" I never finished this book. I took it out from the library for about 3 months. It was so dry and boring, and most of the "helpfulness" was common sense. "
" So practical, and so in line with my parental philosophy (and general style as a teacher too). I was immediately able to apply some of his strategies with great success (and fewer tears). "
" VERY insightful. Down-to-earth advice and offers great perspectives. Logical and simple to apply. "
" Didn't really finish. Seemed to have some good stuff, just couldn't get myself to read it. "
" Some good points about watching my own behavior. Suggests avoiding sibling rivalry but not getting involved in conflicts. Gives very specific guidelines for time outs. "
" This is actually the second time I've read this. Each time I hope that it will make me a better parent. It makes some very good points and is definitely one of the better parenting books I've read. "
" Great advice, I needed it, I hope I can stay on top of it. It's working so far! "
" I think this guy has some great advice. "
" This is a pick and take book. Some good things able to take from it. "
" I had to return this book to the library after checking it out twice. I want to buy it to have on hand. No matter how much I think I know about kids there is always more to learn. I would suggest this to anyone who works with kids. "
" I have been reading several parenting books. After reading all of them, a combination of the tips have been helping. "
" The title of this book says it all. Common sense stuff that every person that hangs around kids should read... not just parents. I hope my two (almost three) kids get the benefits possible by my (and Aaron's) abiding by this books ideas. Be patient. Be consistent. Don't expect perfection. Have fun. "
" Even if I don't remember everything in this amazing book, I remember how it helped me feel hope that I can be a better parent. We've noticed a huge change in our son just from us changing our attitudes. He's happier and more willing to obey. Thank you Sal Severe! "
" Excellent advice...at least for the kind of kid that I have. Easy to apply, good reminders, great guidance in teaching responsible decision making vs. just punishment. "
" I still need to reference this. Didn't need it as much w/Dylon as I do w/Nicky!!! Go figure! "
" Three words: IT IS WORKING! "
" I re-read this book all the time "
" I read this book a while ago, but I remember that I got several decent ideas that we used on Isaiah from the book. I will be reading it again soon as Josiah gets older and reaches preschooler status. "
" Pretty good parenting book, strategies not too different from others I've read. It's very repetitive though. Found myself flipping through/skipping a lot. "
" This book is written so that you can skip ahead to sections you need help with, and even suggests which basic ones to focus on if you are in real trouble. Some of the info repeats for this reason, so you won't miss out if you skip. Turns out I'm not behaving myself very well... "
" Hmmm . . . good, but not life-changing. Great, common sense advice. The kind-of stuff I already know (and could probably think of and implement) if I wasn't sleep deprived and our house wasn't ruled by thre-year-olds. "
Timothy B. Shutt teaches at Kenyon College in the integrated program in the humane studies department.
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