T
he author of The No-Cry Sleep Solution
returns with this guide to helping parents remain in control of their two-to -eight-year-olds. “A child,” Pantley points out, “is emotion in motion.” She provides a variety of techniques to help rein in out-of-control children, based on a four-part plan that corrects the current behavior, teaches a lesson, helps the child learn control and builds the relationship between the parent and child. Her techniques are not unusual, ranging from telling stories and giving timeout warnings to distractions and simply looking away (“Every once in a while, the best thing you can do for family peace is to turn around, pretend you didn't see it, take a deep breath, and move on to something else”). Where Pantley does break away from the parenting pack is explaining how parents can control themselves. Her suggestions won't be easy for parents to follow, but they make solid sense. The final part of the guide will be the most thumbed-through section: concrete advice for specific problems such as bossiness, sleep issues and sibling disagreements. Attachment parents as well as those looking for a gentle approach will appreciate the wisdom Pantley shares. (July)
