Your Seven-Year-Old : Life in a Minor Key

Rating:
Summary: Great for age level connecting with your child.
Review: Seeing into the mind of a seven-year old is an amazing journey. From sullen independence to exhuberant joy at new horizons. Louise Bates Ames guides readers around the pitfalls and gives a new understanding to this inwardly viewed age. It's as wonderful as the rest of her age-related books.

Rating:
Summary: Problem solving outdated
Review: These books have helped me understand what my children have been going through at various stages/ages of their development. This book was on target with my daughter's behavior/temperment. However, I found the problem solving answers to be extrememely outdated. The authors suggested that a particular seven yr old who disliked school could either change to a private school, stay back in first grade or shorten the school day. What were they thinking? No suggestions were given as to how to talk to the child or work with the teachers,school or family doctor. I thought I would get some advice for a similar problem, not this time. In general I found this book helpful but think it needs to be updated, possibly each decade.

Rating:
Summary: Keep this on your Parenting Shelves for Peace of Mind!
Review: When my then 5 1/2 year old was behaving much differently than he had at age 5, my mother pulled out an old hardcover version of the Gesell Institute Books and - oh my! - much of the changes seemed to be quite common among 5 1/2 year olds!

These are 'old' books (I'm one of the earliest of the baby boomers, though my child is now nearly 9), but they are still useful.

This book and all in the series are little paperbacks, quick to read. Our society has changed since they were written, so a bit of the book may seem dated if you don't like 'traditional roles. However, there is much good information and wisdom in here, unencumbered by the modern day concerns about ADD and such. In expensive, a good investment to ease a parent's mind. A nice gift from grandparents to their own children, and for young parents, just nice to have on the shelf for those days when we forget that kids behaviors and interests change as they grow up.

Rating:
Summary: Practical, helpful information.
Review: When you know what behaviors are "normal" for your child's age you can relax, stop the worry, and focus on appropriate solutions. This whole series of books accurately defines the ages and stages of children. These books keep your expectations realistic and allow you to avoid anger caused by a lack of understanding of your child's developmental stages.