The Big Book of Parenting Solutions: 101 Answers to Your Everyday Challenges and Wildest Worries [Paperback]

I am a grandmother. My parents used to say "little kids: little problems; big kids: big problems." In today's world, even if your kids are little, there can be big problems. My own generation of parents didn't have to deal with the internet, or violence in the schools, or an increasingly violent, permissive, and sexually explicit society. Sure, problems existed--but somewhere else. Now they are in your own back yard, regardless of where your back yard is.

From the moment my daughter got pregnant, I realized the parenting environment has changed. I expected that methods of putting the baby to sleep would be different of course--that changes every few years--but questioning vaccinations? I decided I had to read up on the new thinking.

I have to confess that I was worried. I have seen so many spoiled children in stores, restaurants, and other public places that I had reached the conclusion that modern parents either didn't believe in discipline or didn't want to bother. What I realized from this book is that, although many of the problems are different (and pretty serious and complex), the underlying methodology, the basic philosophies of good parenting, and the goals and purpose of good parents have not changed.

I have great sympathy for today's parents. Their battle to instill character and values is much more difficult than mine was, even though we brought up our children in the age of conspicuous consumption and a snobbish concern for designer labels. This societal message made children think that they were what they had or what they wore and it was a challenge to get them to define themselves according to real values. (Apparently, that problem is still ongoing, as it is directly addressed, and very well, under the topic of "Materialistic".)

But so are many other topics that might (or might not) affect you at some time: Is your child bossy with her friends? Is he ungrateful or selfish or spoiled? Is he gifted? Is he defiant and hot-tempered? Is she suffering due to the end of a friendship? Hooked on rewards? Watches too much television? Shy? A bully (or the victim of a bully)? You name it. It is here.

This book, which is encyclopedic in its scope, covers each topic with sensitivity, intelligence, practicality, great common sense and with a stress on intervening early to deal with the problem behavior or situation. It breaks up the problem into its components: first the signs and symptoms, then the immediate steps to address the problem, then the long-term changes that need to be implemented. It also tells you how that behavior is manifested in different ages and what you should expect from a child depending on his age. There is also recommended reading on the topic in case you want to research it further.

It is a great resource, not only for parents who are trying to bring up their children from pre-school through the pre-teen years, but also for grandparents who need to understand what our children and grandchildren are up against so we can offer help, support and, only occasionally, advice.

I highly recommend this book to any parent. I have had my share of parenting challenges and have turned to a slew of other parenting books looking for solutions. I may have found nuggets of information in each book, but each book ultimately was narrowily focused on one issue or point of view. But never before have I seen anything so comprehensive and smart as this book. When I first received The Big Book of Parenting (apply named...it IS big!), I started paging through it. It is setup like a reference book - you look for the topic that you are interested in. My kids were fighting at the moment, so I looked at sibling rivalry. Then I was thinking about how my son has been indecisive lately, to the point that it concerned me. Low and behold, there is a section on indecision. I was so surprised. How did she know I was worried about this??

Not only are the topics comprehensive, they are pertinent to today's parent. Just flipping through, I see topics like, "Growing Up Too Fast," "Disciplining Other Kids," "Organized Sports," "TV Addiction," and "Hooked on Rewards." And of course, Michele covers the classic parenting dilemas like sibling rivalry, stealing, and separation anxiety. I particularly appreciated the section on birth order - the traits and challenges of the first child, middle child, only child, etc., and the section titled, "The Deadliest Forms of Parenting."

More than other books, The Big Book of Parenting provides so much substance on each topic. Signs and symptoms of the problem, why you should work toward change, multiple solutions from multiple angles, creative ideas from other parents, the latest research, what to expect age by age, and other references to consult. It is simply packed with substance from which any parent can glean clarity and take away immediate action steps. And you walk away feeling not like you have to buy into one expert's point of view, but rather that you have gathered the best of the best research and advice. Thank you, Michele, for this valuable resource.

When you see this book, you will realize this includes Michele Borba's work over the last 20 years. It is one BIG BOOK! She has accumulated over 20 years worth of research and includes the most up to date issues parents face today. This is not meant to read through in one sitting. It is meant to be a reference book that you come back to again and again.

This book includes up to date topics such as cell phones, video games, cyberbullying, and internet safety. One section addresses school and includes topics on special needs ranging from ADHD, Gifted, Learning Disabilities, Weight Issues and even Depression. In addition, Michele Borba addresses issues related to family, behavior, character and emotions. For the most part, any topic you will need to address from toddler to tween is included.

Dr. Michele Borba is frequently featured as a Parent Expert on the TODAY Show. Just this past month, I have seen her on the show 3 times. I enjoy watching her because she comes across as if she is having a conversation with you instead of just passing along information. It is easy to pick up on her passion for parenting when you watch her talk. This book is where she shares practical information and solutions that she has collected over the years.

As a parent that needs one book, one resource to go to, I highly recommend this book.

If you only get one parenting book, this is the one I would recommend for dealing with kids ages 3-13.

Cammie

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