Customer Reviews

Attached at the Heart: 8 Proven Parenting Principles for Raising Connected and Compassionate Children

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Since I'm already an "attached" parent myself, and pretty well-informed on the subject, I sat down with this book the first time expecting to scan it and nod my head. Instead, I was quickly engrossed by the accessible writing style, friendly tone and heavy supportive documentation -- I couldn't put it down and read it through in a night. Besides having certain concepts reinforced, I learned more about why it's so important to choose a compassionate parenting approach to produce healthy, well-adjusted children, and why it's crucial for parents to keep their own 'tanks' full in order to do this. The authors address a myriad of concerns and help readers translate the philosophy into their daily practical parenting decisions. The information is balanced and presented in such a way that families can choose what works for them based not just on cultural programming, but on scientific research -- and, of course, their own heart's leading. It's also reassuring to know that the authors have raised their own several children according to these principles and have seen the positive long-term results. In a society that's not always supportive of taking a 'natural' approach, this book is like a friend and guide for the journey. I highly recommend it and will be taking copies to every future baby shower.

Attached at the Heart is a fantastic read -- a true guide for parents in learning how to raise their children to be confident, yet compassionate, adults without using many of the techniques so common in our society, such as letting a child cry herself to sleep, or using timeouts or spanking. Many people would refer to this approach as Attachment Parenting, but to me, it's just parenting...at least what real, healthy, loving parenting should be. This book teaches parents how to develop and maintain close emotional relationships with their children without losing the ability to teach our children boundaries. Yes, we can love -- and respect -- our children without spoiling them!

This is an amazing book written by the founders of an international parenting organization dedicated to raising children in respectful and loving environments. It's not a how-to book. It's a review of how recent parenting practices came about and have interfered with parents' ability to trust themselves and listen to their hearts and instincts when raising their children. The background information on techniques such as time-out and harsh physical punishment is extraordinary and eye-opening, as is the research on other cultures in which children are raised as equal human beings. A definite must-read for parents looking to find their way, to find true happiness in this greatest role of them all.

Unlike most parenting books, Attached at the Heart encourages parents to get to know their own baby and follow the baby's lead in responding to his or her needs. For most of us, this means following our own instincts. Beautifully written and studded with touching stories from parents, the book is also extensively footnoted with a huge bibliography. The critical importance of early childhood development has been underscored by recent research, and Attached at the Heart has gleaned the latest research and blended it with the oldest wisdom - that of the heart. Encouraging and nonjudgmental, the book offers guidance and information for parents, professionals, and grandparents. It will make a wonderful baby gift or even a gift for a child's first birthday. I'll be buying more copies myself and encourage everyone to read this lovely, loving, and important new book.

This book is an easy read with great tips for parents practicing attachment parenting. I felt it was most appropriate for infants vs toddlers.

This book is the most comprehensive Attachment Parenting book available. And since Attachment Parenting is just about parents trusting their instinct and listening to their heart, it's a book that ALL parents should read. It provides inspiration, support, education, resources, and encouragement to all parents who seek to nuture strong connections with their children. It's a must read for any parent (well, any caregiver, really) who wants to establish a respectful, empathetic, and compassionate relationship. Every parent should read this book!

What a treasure house of helpful information! This book not only gives you practical tips but it inspires you to want to be a better parent. I could feel the compassion and empathy coming at me across the pages! Rather than judgments and criticisms, I felt understanding for the struggle and hard work it takes to make a home a haven for your family. I know these principles work as I've tried them on my own kids, and although they are all grown (ages 26-29) they all three live close by and check in/with/on me regularly. Thank you Barbara and Lysa for writing this wonderful book so that other parents can benefit from these "tried and true" suggestions!

I just recently received my copy of this book and so have not yet finished it, but it is awesome. It is backed with facts...supported by science...and logic and the truth that is on our own hearts as parents! ESPECIALLY if you are considering anything by Gary Ezzo, you MUST read this book...

I've believed in, practiced and promoted the principles described in "Attached at the Heart" for almost 30 years, but still have been fascinated by the new things I've been learning while reading this book. (I haven't read it all yet, but couldn't wait to tell the world how wonderful this book is!)...Mainstream American parents and professionals have been practicing for decades what I call the "Teach 'em to be independent from the day they're born!" approach, an approach that clearly has not been meeting the emotional and other needs of infants and young children. Depriving our infants and young children of the complement of emotional "nutrients" they need has contributed to many of our serious social problems, such as corporate sociopaths, violence, and addictions of all kinds: to alcohol, gambling, drugs, food, nicotine, dysfunctional relationships, work, thrills, etc. Research from various fields, including neurobiology, anthropology, psychology and primatology, has confirmed what the hearts of many parents have told them: that what a baby needs is an abundance of nurturing touch and consistent empathetic care, primarily from someone who is emotionally invested in the baby and with whom the baby feels safe and content. This book does an excellent job of presenting the art and science of attuned, respectful and responsive parenting and explaining how the principles help produce emotionally healthy, empathetic, joyful and productive members of society. "Attached at the Heart" is full of interesting and relevant quotes from parents and professionals, and at the end of each chapter one finds a wealth of recommended reading and research highlights. If I could give only one book to parents or professionals who work with families, this would be it! I recommend that you buy at least three copies to begin with: one for yourself, one to lend, and one to give to your public library or a professional you know. Let's get the revolution going! Maureen McCarthy (infant advocate, parent educator)

Amazing book! If you're looking for a parenting book that helps you connect with your child (and your entire family), you've found it. The authors did an excellent job detailing the AP principles in a fresh update to the original AP pioneer of Dr. Sears.