Normal Children Have Problems, Too : How Parents Can Understand and Help

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Summary: Step-by-step approach to analyzing problems and solving them
Review: This book goes through the process psychologist Dr. Turecki would take if you brought your child to his office for counseling, using several case studies to illustrate his points (which are common areas of concern). He starts by helping you determine the actual problems your family is experiencing, and getting past everyone's emotional reactions. Turecki discusses common discipline problems and how parents may unknowingly contribute to them, and how parents can talk to each other (even when they disagree). Guidelines are given on how to choose which behaviors to start working on changing, and how to describe the problem objectively. One of the strengths of this book is you are then guided in thoroughly looking at your child's temperament and history to help you see the issues in his or her unique situation which will help you in finding solutions. Turecki does not pretend that one solution works for all children, since children have inborn temperaments which affect how they relate to the world. The author gives practical advice for specific behaviours and provides guidelines to knowing when to seek professional help, and how to work with teachers. As a teacher, child care worker, lay counselor and mother I found this book to be one of the best on the subject. If you enjoyed Kids Are Worth It, Raising Your Spirited Child, or How to Talk so Kids Will Listen, you will find this book a welcome addition to your library.