cover image Everyday Parenting

Everyday Parenting

Robin Goldstein. Penguin Books, $17 (288pp) ISBN 978-0-14-013345-5

In this paperback version of their successful self-published book, Goldstein and Gallant provide clear, concise advice to help parents cope with some of the frustrating problems they may encounter. Ten sections cover a broad range of issues from dependency to setting limits, sleeping and socializing. Each area is organized into brief, readable essays addressing specific questions such as ``When will my baby sleep through the night?'' and ``What can I do about my child's whining?'' In a supportive tone, the authors enable parents to respond appropriately by explaining how children think (for instance, they attribute feelings to inanimate objects) and develop (children may touch off-limits objects because they are exploring their world). Much of the authors' advice draws on the most useful commonplaces from contemporary parenting theories, such as the technique of setting limits on the behavior of very young children by distracting them rather than punishing them. Goldstein is a parenting consultant and educator; Gallant is a freelance writer. Illustrations not seen by PW. Author tour. (June )