From Publishers Weekly
Goldstein, a child development expert and member of the Johns Hopkins University faculty, and writer Gallant present a well-rounded parenting primer, covering the years from infancy to pre-adolescence. The authors divide their guidebook into three parts, dealing with birth to age five, six to nine, and 10 to 13. Topics (dependency, sleep issues, eating and so forth) are presented in a question-and-answer format, with some subjects appearing in more than one part, such as sibling relationships. This format enables readers to easily locate an age-appropriate answer to ongoing concerns. Goldstein focuses on understanding developmental issues; to wit, she urges parents to be patient and give children time to give up thumb sucking, learn to walk, toilet train, etc., explaining that pressuring kids to perform before they are developmentally ready may result in stress and setbacks. One section even answers the question "How can I be more patient?" Though seasoned parents may already know the drill on many of the basic questions addressed, the authors' reassuring answers will be particularly useful to first-time parents, who may wonder if their child's behavior is "normal." This accessible reference provides a calm, commonsense approach that's respectful toward children and parents alike; the authors' overriding message to accept each child's pace and character is a valuable lesson for parents no matter how old the child.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Well written by experienced professionals, these two books describe child-rearing problems and solutions in brief chapters. Neither book is meant to be read from cover to cover but instead referred to as situations arise, limiting usefulness in the library. Goldstein, who teaches child development at Johns Hopkins University, and coauthor Gallant, a writer specializing in family issues and education, have organized The Parenting Bible into three parts based upon a child's age: the first five years, ages six to nine, and ages ten to 13. Each part is color-coded on the edge of the page and contains topics phrased as a question (e.g., "How can I help my child adjust to moving?") for the appropriate age. The descriptions of children and the resolution of issues are based upon the theories of child development researcher Jean Piaget and psychosocial theorist Erik Erikson, offering an accessible way for parents to understand their theories. The Parent's Problem Solver was written by a pediatrician/licensed midwife with over 20 years' experience in parenting issues. Tobin has developed methods for solving problems using the Three Rs (reframe, reflect, resolve) and the acronym STOP (see, think, observe, put it together). These methods, along with worksheets at the ends of chapters (problematic for libraries), are meant to help resolve parenting issues. The chapters are arranged alphabetically by topic (e.g., "Crying"), and the book closes with an annotated list of resources for each chapter that includes books, web sites, and organizations. Goldstein and Tobin do not concur on many topics, such as the use of pacifiers or what to do when children wake up at night, which will frustrate parents. Tobin's list of resources will be useful for library collection development, but Goldstein's book covers more topics and, given its organization by age, is more conducive to browsing, making it the more likely choice for public libraries. Alice Hershiser, Reedville, VA
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
