Magic Tools for Raising Kids

Reviews and Comments

“Brilliant and sometimes funny little book for parents of young children.”

National Emotional Literacy Interest Group, Southampton, UK

 

“My daughter (then just turned 2) and I were having power struggles over everything, it seemed. For example: changing her diaper, getting dressed in the morning or for going out, sitting in her car seat.

“When I visited [your] web-site I looked at the different books, especially the ones by Elizabeth Crary because she seemed to have clear and sensible solutions to these problems with 2- year- olds. I intended to buy “Love & Limits,” but my bookstore didn’t have it. However, “Magic Tools for Raising Kids” was available and I thought it would be helpful.

“In two or three days I started using the principles of choices, two yesses for every no and changing location or situation. I make sure that I can live with either of the choices I give her and then also I try to be more creative and appropriate in the consequences that follow. For example: At the mall she likes to walk on her own and sometimes even runs away laughing and wants me to chase her. Of course, I am concerned that someone will snatch her or she will fall on the hard floor. Usually I bring a harness so she can walk somewhat freely, but I don’t always have it along. When I don’t, her choices are: ‘Can you hold my hand?’ or ‘Mommy will hold your jacket.’ (Usually the hood, which isn’t too comfortable for her.) Either way, she is close enough to be safe. I guess the second choice is more of a consequence, but sometimes it is hard to come up with two yesses on the spot!

“One other note: I taught Nursery and Kindergarten for six years before having children. I thought I was good at teaching discipline until I had my own. Being a parent is much tougher because it’s a 24-hour job! Thank goodness there are books and people who share their experience!”

Jennifer Escueta