The Family Bond puts the fun in functional family. Offering quiet suggestions and thought-provoking stories in two-page vignettes, this little book is perfect reading during bus rides or lunch hours. Dr. Susan Smith Kuczmarksi's entertaining voice conjures up pictures of warm and enjoyable family life that seem easily achievable for everyone willing to practice patience and admit that parents learn as much from kids as kids do from their parents.
Each very short chapter focuses on a particular concept--always one that is gentle, positive, and generally humorous--and ends with a one-sentence summary. From "Parenting means sharing and appreciating the extraordinary magic of ordinary daily events" to "Let go and PLAY," these ideas emphasize the importance of open communication, laughter, and shared family experiences of all kinds. Her suggestion of an annual art project that everyone creates together is sure to result in some true family treasures, and her comparison of teenagers to toads (in a positive light) will have parents of teens giggling and rediscovering the joys that the teen years can bring to families. More serious family activities cover basics like division of everyday chores, along with great ideas on how to develop a code of family values that all members take an active role in creating. What the author has learned from her family is present on every page, and her personal experiences combined with her professional skills result in a book that's easily accessible and valuable for families everywhere. --Jill Lightner
Product Description
'Magical and uplifting, The Family Bond is a timely, important book that serves as an inspirational tool to support parents in their efforts to build family relation- ships that last a lifetime-and beyond." -- Dianne Sautter, President, Chicago Children's Museum "Filled with positive, understanding messages about family life and the importance of recognizing each child's individuality. It's easy to read and provides ideas and tips on ways to encourage family togetherness." -- Bernice Weissbourd, President, Family Focus, Inc. 'When I started reading The Family Bond, I assumed that it was going to be simply a book on how to raise children. Instead, I discovered that it was a self-improvement book for both parents and grandparents to help their children become responsible young adults. This is the best book I've seen on this subject!" -- Darlene B. Lowe, Chairman of the Board, Edward Lowe Foundation "Could there be an antidote to the hectic, haphazard parenting that characterizes so many families today? In contrast to the great attention being paid to dysfunctional families, Dr. Susan Smith Kuczmarski offers a fun formula for functional 'family-making."' -- Michele Moeller Chandler, PhD, Instructor, Williams College Susan Smith Kuczmarski is a lecturer, educator, and an authority on the sociology of family culture. She has done extensive research on how children learn social skills. She holds a doctorate in education from Columbia University, conducts frequent workshops and seminars for parents and educators, and has appeared on many radio and television programs. She is the mother of three sons, ages nine through fifteen.
