Rating: 
Summary: A "Give the Child a Hug and All the Problems Go Away" book
Review: "It is difficult to describe what it is like to be the parent of a spirited child." This is the author's thesis, which she presents in her second paragraph. She continues this whining tone throughout the book, without ever managing to describe anything. I think she would be well served to study both writing and child development. The highlight of her writing is her constant suggestion that the reader give his child a hug, and all the problems and issues will go away. I was hoping for a writer that was familiar with current clinical techniques and thinking. Instead, after wading through a couple of chapters of this book, I was left with the opinion that someone could still write a book on the topic of raising children, instead of just complaining about how difficult it was, and proving herself correct that it is not done in this book. If the author is not able to learn how to write clearly, she might consider hiring an editor. I hope she refrains from publishing until she is able to describe the topic at hand. I found the author's motivation to be that she was angry at "labels." In reality, she probably is not able to grasp the concepts of making observations, fitting subjects into categories and applying treatment.
Rating: 
Summary: Repsect and Reflect
Review: This book was wonderful-literally. Every time I found a place to stop (which wasn't often), I was amazed in realizing how much *more* I could respect and reflect on my 3-year old's individuality ... him being himself. I can anonymously admit (grin) that our relationship has improved from just reading this book.It provided some great insights for understanding and managing situations (which have worked in practice), and showed how, even in the thick of a scene that we have an opportunity - an obligation - to work lovingly *with* our children's unique collection of attributes rather than battling them to fit into some proscribed mold (seeing my own reflection in the book was also sobering <grin>). I have even ordered a few more copies to share (constructively and professionally, of course) with others involved in his care and development.
Rating:
Summary: The most positive book I have read on this subject.
Review: With a four year old little girl that is definitely "more" I have read every book I could find on the subject of "difficult" or "strong-willed" children. This book is a refreshingly POSITIVE approach to dealing with a "spirited" child. This book has helped me to appreciate my child more and has shown me how to help her (and myself) through trying times. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn better parenting skills. The whole book conveys a sense of supportive and loving interactions with your child, even when you feel at your wit's end.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent, helpful, needed, timely.
Review: Self help, as a trend, is a sign of new openess to diversity. Everyone, on this planet should embrace it. It will benefit humanity. This book celebrates diversity. Every encouraging word, hint, suggestion and technique for raising spirited children is valid and helpful. But even beyond the realms of parenthood, this book will help many to help themselves, in ways never articulated before. No wonder this became a "bible" for so many readers. Indeed, diversity is sacred, and encouraging it godly.
Rating:
Summary: The Best Book I Ever Bought
Review: I didnt know if it was Terrible Twos oops I mean Terrific Twos or a behavior problem. This book put my daughters behavior and actions into perscpective. I have learned alot from this book. Email me if you have any ?? Traesee@aol.com
Rating: 
Summary: Some good advice but missing some important information
Review: At 8 months of age my daughter was assessed as a moderate-high spirited child. She exhibited most of the characteristics described in this book. In terms of being better equipped to understand why my child is the way she is, I found this book to be helpful. However, I think it is a big mistake for the author to be basically advising that if your child is spirited, they can't help but display negative and inappropriate behaviour, It isn't right for everyone else in the family to be on eggshells for fear of disturbing the spirited child. My husband and I followed all the advice in this book and ended up with a 4 1/2 year old whose behaviour was out of control. Our pediatrician recommended an alternative. We read the book "The Omnipotent Child". At first we didn't think the advice in that book would work because we were so used to giving our child whatever we had to to not upset her. We did however give it a true effort and our lives have totally changed. It is very peaceful in our house and our daughter has never been happier.
Rating:
Summary: Changed my outlook on many relationships in my life.
Review: The insight you gain from this book, into people who are extravert/introvert, and the levels of intensity with which they function in the world, will open your eyes! I began to communicate with my husband on a new level, so not only do I interract differently with my chidlren now, but I also have a much deeper and better understanding of him, and many other people I know. I feel I am a better mother, wife, sister and friend having read Mary's book. If you read the book, you can immagine how thrilling it was to have the opportunity to meet her personally and hear her in workshops face-to-face. I can not wait to read the next one!! Thank you Mary!
Rating:
Summary: Most informative & interesting book I have read in my life !
Review: A friend recomended this book to me. Since my child is, what I use to refer to as hyper, I thought I would glance through it. To my surprise - I read it cover to cover. The writing style is excelent, really keeps you interested in the subject. The thoughts, tips, lessons, helpful hints, whatever you refer to them as, are the most helpful pieces of advice I have had for raising my daughter. This book would be helpful to parents of children at all depths of intensity, sensitivity, etc. I plan to re-read it again to make sure I remember everything that will help me help my child have a wonderful, happy life. My husband, a father who is very active in his daughters life - plans to read it too! Thank-you very much Mary Sheedy Kurcinka.
Rating:
Summary: A wonderful insight on the "SPIRITED CHILD"
Review: As I read through this book, I felt as if I were being watched. So many of the behaivors discussed in the book were ones I was observing on a daily bases in my own home. I always knew that my son was intense, sensitive, and energetic and I realized that I needed some guidance on how to handle this wonderful, yet spirited child. This book has allowed me to understand and relate to this type of child. I have noticed a tremendous change in how I am dealing with him, and also a tremendous change in him, dealing with himself since I've read the book. This book has become a bible to me and I would recommend it to anyone who is having any difficulties dealing with or understanding their own "spirited child."
Rating:
Summary: Right on target!
Review: This book was recommended by many people, so I finally purchased it. I have just started reading it, but so far it makes total sense. Finally someone who understands my child. Thank you!
|
