This book is great in many ways. It offers practical, easy to implement strategies for encouraging positive behavior in your children through the use of logical consequences. It is very behavioral in its emphasis meaning it shouldn't be the only book on your shelf. Supplement with books to address other issues such as the meaning behind your child's behavior. Gottman's "Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child" is a good one. The second half of the book is not nearly as helpful as the first. It offers topical "pearls" that felt too surfacy in their treatment to be of much use. You are in good shape if you simply read the first 100 pages or so. ( )

This is a great book with great ideas. Sometimes the ideas are difficult to pull off, but they are all "logical". It is a more relaxed way of parenting by putting the responsibility back on the child. ( )

Lent to: Jeremy Finnestad on 29 March 2008 ( )

Raising kids is difficult, and every child is different. Therefore, no one book can tell you how you should teach your own unique human being. Having said that, as one who survived parenting six very different children, I wholeheartedly endorse this book. It does not absolve you of the responsibility of understanding each child individually and catering your approach to his/her specific needs, but it does provide powerful tools and insights that will make you much more effective as a parent. Just be careful not to cross the line that separates mature detachment (good) and indifference (bad). In other words, remember the "Love" part, and not just the "Logic." ( )

Helpful ( )

This is a great parenting book. I highly recommened it to anyone with kids. Well worth reading - and an easy read.

I do think you can take some of the points too far. Kids still need boundaries or you have a mess. ( )