Shepherding a Child's Heart

Rating:
Summary: Rather Negative
Review: It's been a couple of years since I read this book, but I remember thinking it was really conservative, really "old school" and really negative. Some people will think that's a good thing.

Basically, what I remember is reading that your children are inherently evil and you're supposed to be on constant watch for anything sinful/negative about your child and address it--often in a corporeal way.

Seems like kind of a sad viewpoint for raising your kids. I much prefer the philosophy of Ross Campbell--How to Really Love Your Child. Much more positive view of children. Much simpler "rules" to follow. And much more God-like in practice, I think.

Anyway, I think Tedd Tripp is well-meaning and truly loves children. I think he makes many good points in his book, but the overall tone is rather hard-line.



Rating:
Summary: Not Worthy of One Star
Review: This book is NOT what should be used to guide a parent in raising children. While Tripp does discuss scripture... he seems to think the only way to discipline children is to beat up on them! That is NOT what the Bible says! Tripp may believe that a person should discipline with physical punishment... but what does that teach our children? To hit, fight, and that the people who are supposed to love them are also required to beat them??? This is not the lesson I want my child to learn!

As an alternative, I would recommend reading Grace based Parenting, by Dr. Tim Kimmel. Dr. Kimmel's book is wonderful!

Rating:
Summary: Very Helpful
Review: This book was very helpful in helping me to see my need to address my childrens heart rather than their behavior (the sickness rather than the symptoms). I recommend it without hesitation. All these reviewers who adamantly condemn it sound like they should be writing parenting books instead of reading them. If anything, this book has shown me how to spank less and engage my children as a mentor.