Thomas W. Phelan

I'd give the techniques at least 4/5 stars, but the presentation leaves much to be desired. Put succinctly, this book's origin as a pamphlet is obvious. It should be rewritten from scratch or at least heavily edited. I would have organized the material much differently, possibly arranging techniques, advice, and tips according to age groups. Even so, the content is quite good.

I liked this book. It's practical and achievable advice on disciplining kids (and growing relationships with your kids)

Great potential as a manual to take charge of a hectic household with the end goal to make life happier, more harmonious, and to be able to actually enjoy your kids more.

Other reviews took issue with the tone of the book. I can see how some parents who are in awe and worship of their little darlings might find the tone off-putting (I don't mean that as sarcastically as it show more sounds) it was just right for me, as I'm a little irreverent about everything (not just parenting) myself.

Check it out. show less

I can totally do the keeping quiet and not being emotional part (it seems in line with what I know about reinforcing behavior: don't overreact to negative behavior, because it's still a reaction, which is what they're after), but I'm curious about the whole "time out" system because I didn't grow up with that. So do I do what my parents did (corporal punishment) because, from my experience, it's effective? Or do I try out this new, foreign method and hope the child psychologists are right? show more Something I hope I won't have to think about until a good few years later. show less

I have known about this method of discipline for several years, but have only just gotten around to reading the book in regards to implementing the entire strategy. This strategy works wonders with my children. The only thing that I question about this book is that the cover implies that this can be used for children over 2. Since I currently have a 2 year old, I tend to disagree that this strategy works with a child so young. I would feel confident that it would start to work with a 3 year show more old, but 2 is just too young. Otherwise, if you are at your wits end over how to discipline your children effectively, then this is the book you need. show less