Customer Reviews

Toddlers and Parents: A Declaration of Independence

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I liked the format, but was disappointed in that there really wasn't much advice on handling the "problems" when they surfaced. I really respect Dr. Brazelton and his child-rearing philosophies, but this book didn't really help with the frustrations that are sometimes overwhelming in parenting a toddler.

I found this book a facinating read; hard to put down. It gives insights into BOTH toddler and parent behavior in a very readable format; through case senarios. In a "he says--she says" style, I find myself identifying with the parental concerns (wanting to scream and hide you head under the covers, crying for YOUR mother) and learning what the kid wants (attention, attention, attention).

I understand what the previous reviewer was saying...there is no specific chapter for toilet training or food issues. But there are enough books out there that cover those basic topics. This book instead probes into the mind and psychodynamics of the toddler-parent relationship. Very interesting, a fun read if you are going through this stage with your child.

This might be titled, How to Raise your Toddlers and still keep your Sanity! Life would have been so much more difficult without the advice that Brazelton gives in this book.
His way is so easy to understand as he teaches by example using many different situations and family combinations that exist in our modern day lives. Why not benefit from the experience of someone who has observed thousands of children and their interactions with parents, siblings and the family dynamics. He is wise. I still give this book and his other book, Infants and Mothers, as a new baby gift. These methods work well so why reinvent the wheel!

If you want advice on handling the specific issues with toddlerhood, try reading Brazelton's Touchpoints series. There are actually chapters devoted to each pertinent issue.

This book is a window into the mind of a toddler. I highly recommend it!