Average customer rating:
- Not be the best book for those using Attachment Parenting
- A great help in our household.
- Perfect helper when you need it most!
- Great advice, but have support
- Best guidance for a lost parent
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Positive Discipline for Preschoolers, Revised Second Edition: For Their Early Years - Raising Children Who Are Responsible, Respectful, and Resourceful
Jane Ed.D. Nelsen ,
Cheryl Erwin ,
Roslyn Ann Duffy ,
Jane Nelsen , and
Roslyn Duffy
Manufacturer: Three Rivers Press
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Binding: Paperback
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Positive Discipline: The First Three Years: From Infant to Toddler--Laying the Foundation for Raising a Capable, Confident Child (Positive Discipline Library)
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Accessories:
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Health o Meter HDC100-01 "Grow with Me" Teddy Bear Scale for Babies and Toddlers
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Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer
ASIN: 0761515151
Release Date: 1998-10-07 |
Book Description
Positive Discipline for Positive Results!
Caring for young children is one of the most challenging tasks an adult will ever face. No matter how much you love the child, there will be moments filled with anger, frustration, and even desperation. There will also be questions: Why does my child deliberately lie to me? Why won't she listen to me? Should I ever spank her when she is disobedient?
Over the years, millions of parents just like you have come to trust
Jane Nelsen's Positive Discipline series. These books offer a commonsense approach to child-rearing that so often is lacking in today's world. Now completely updated to report the latest research in child development,
Positive Discipline for Preschoolers will teach you how to use kind but firm support to raise a child who is responsible, respectful, and resourceful. You'll find practical solutions on how to:
·Prevent misbehavior through nonpunitive discipline—not punishment
·Avoid the power struggles that often come with the challenges of mastering sleeping, eating, and potty training
·Instill valuable social skills and positive behavior inside and outside the home by using methods that teach important life skills
·Employ family and class meetings to tackle discipline and developmental problems
·And much, much more!
"Once parents grasp and use the amazing power of Positive Discipline, their home will be transformed into a place of love and learning like no other."
—Joan K. Comeau, Ph.D., president, Family Information Services
"By leading parents in a natural direction of wisdom and responsibility, this book encourages trust in the parent/child relationship and asks the simple yet profound question, 'Given this particular situation, what will you do?'"
—Janice Lind Raun, M.A., family therapist
Customer Reviews:
Not be the best book for those using Attachment Parenting.......2007-09-18
There was a spot in the book that I didn't particularly like. It was about co-sleeping. Although it was claiming not to be putting down co-sleeping, it was definately inferring that it was better not too, I felt that it was putting the undertone suggestion that it wasn't the best thing. That children need to be able to self sooth etc...We are strong advocates for Attachment Parenting, and very researched in this area, and those related topics around it, and it is not correct to assume a child won't learn to sleep on their own, if not put in an alone situation, or that they will some how miss out on skill's like calming or soothing themselves, if you don't push them more quickly towards independence. Children will grow independent, on their own time table, and because of the attachment you unselfishly allow when they are young, which is not pulling away the security they need, they become more grounded, having been allowed to mature on their own, and reach towards independence step-by-step when they are ready, they grow up feeling secure. When children grow up feeling secure, that were not rushed into sleeping in their own bed, or forced to stop Breastfeeding before they are ready, etc... These people grow up more secure and independent than otherwise. Our Daughter just turned Three and still sleeps with me, and i'm in no hurry to move Her anywhere, and She's a very happy person, and, with no issues, and growing more and more independent on Her own, anyway, everyday : )
This does NOT mean that we put down any other Parents for anything they are doing, or whats right for them. Thats not what I mean. We have Friends that Parent in all different ways. I just wanted to say my peace about the co-sleeping, for some Families like us, it works, and has turned out to be a great experience, and I don't agree that it is some how any kind of a negative. For us it's a definate Positive!
A great help in our household........2006-11-04
Jane Nelson once again provides sound, practical advice for creating a positive energy household. Our 4 year old had us spiralling out of control until we read this book and made some simple changes and became more understanding of her developmental capacities.
Perfect helper when you need it most!.......2006-03-13
Our daughter has just turned three and wow, what happened? We feel like we have tried everything for discipline from time out to consequences and even the "S" word. Nothing really works. My friend recommended this book and it really does help. It's not the end all and be all of all books but it reminds you to think on their level and gives you good ideas for when you are faced with those very tough moments. I must say they suggest a positive time out, which I thought was CRAZY but figured I have tried everything else so why not? It really does work and continues to work. The best part is that I make it her choice and most times don't even have to get mad. I simply say, if you are going to behave that way (explaining the bad behavor, i.e. not playing nicely) please go to your time out corner until you are ready to come back and play nicely and sometimes she goes running in there crying (and then will return letting me know she is done and ready to play nicely) and sometimes she'll stop and think a moment and say, I don't need time out I can play nicely now. It's amazing.
Great advice, but have support.......2005-09-27
Dealing with preschoolers, as any parent will tell you, is a challenge. How do you deal with this little being, that is both independent and dependent, at the same time? Nelsen, et al, have provided a common sense approach to raising preschoolers.
The ideas that are presented in this book, when used properly, are incredibly powerful. An example of this is recognizing the message being sent by the misbehavior of a preschooler. If you can identify what the message being sent is, then you have a greater chance of being able to redirect the behavior. Of course, you have to be willing to take the time to analyze the behavior and define what you are willing to do in response to the behavior. While the tools provided in this book are very powerful when used properly, they can also be very damaging when used improperly. If you have someone that can read the book with you and provide support, you will be much more effective at implementing the strategies successfully.
This book provides an idea for raising children without using humiliation or punitive measures to get short term changes in behavior. If you are looking for support for the, "My parents raised me this way and I turned out just fine." mentality, then find another book. If on the other hand, you are looking for a book that provides a basis for what I would consider to be an improved method of dealing with preschoolers, then this is your book.
The one thing that kept me from giving this book five stars is that it fails to address immediate safety issues. In many cases the book suggests plans that are implemented after you have had a moment to consider your response. It would be helpful if the authors provided some ideas as to how to respond to potentially dangerous situations without losing your cool and still treating your child as a human being who has control over their own actions.
Best guidance for a lost parent.......2005-09-07
WOW!! My 4 year old has been pushing me to the limits and all I kept thinking was that I was failing. This book has put so much into perspective for me and has given suggestions on how to handle situations. I don't yell as much and I don't get angry either. I have a better understanding of my daughter's mindset and it has helped with my 17 month old too!!
Amazon.com
Few parents enjoy those oh-so-important talks with children about the "facts of life." The fact is, you can (and probably should!) begin the conversation as soon as a child turns 3 years old. As for the delicate wording--Linda and Richard Eyre (Teaching Your Children Values) have plenty of suggestions in their comprehensive, step-by-step guide, How to Talk to Your Child About Sex. Starting with the "Preliminary 'As Needed' Talks with Three-to-Eight Year-Olds," the Eyres arrange their chapters by age, including the "The Age Eight 'Big Talk'" and numerous chapters on talking with preteens and adolescents.
The authors also describe what's normal sexual behavior for each stage of development and how to plant the seeds of appreciation of one's body and the later respect for commitment and love. They examine how parents can stay true to their moral and spiritual values while staying connected to their teenagers' sexual reality. Parents will especially appreciate the up-to-date research, such as current statistics about adolescent fears, desires, and activity surrounding sexuality. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
Linda and Richard Eyre stress that it's never too soon-or too late-to start discussing sex and values with your children, and they've got proven strategies to make it easier. How to Talk to Your Child About Sex provides thoughtful, clear, specific guidance on when and, most important, how to help children begin to understand sex, love, and commitment from the most positive viewpoint possible.Preliminary "as needed" talks with three-to eight-year-oldsThe age eight Big TalkFollow-up talks with eight-to thirteen-year-oldsBehavior discussions with eleven-to sixteen-year-oldsDiscussions of perspective and personal standards with fifteen-to nineteen-year-olds
Customer Reviews:
A Must Have For Parents of 7 yr olds and up.......2007-08-13
This is the book you have been searching for. I have a 10 year old son and a 7 year old daughter, and some would say I don't need a book about sex yet. Neither my husband nor I received the "talk" from our parents, so I felt I was in much need of some guidance.
I was very pleased with the content and tone of this book.
I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
It has something for each age group from 8 yrs to 19 yr olds.
The insights and guided conversations of how to broach the topic of sex were invaluable. Thanks to Amazon for the recommendation once I arrived to their site, and to the authors for the sharing of their experiences and knowledge. I now feel equipped and excited to answer the questions that I know my 5th Grader will soon throw at me.
Thanks for the opporunity to review this purchase.
PERFECT!.......2007-04-25
We have to say that this is the best book for "How To" we have encountered! It addresses all issues accompanied with sexual perceptions kids deal with today. Getting to the root of WHY parents need to be the 1st to talk and HOW to help children sort out the garbage that can send mixed signals about our relationship with ourselves and others. Moreover, it sends a message that you think your child is so wonderful and your love so great for them, that you will be the 1st to talk to them about it-- regardless if it is at 5, 8 or 10.
We have found 8 is NOT too early to talk about it.... If you have found this book later, then-- it isn't too late. Some of the language is a bit quirky-- but, as with most books, one must speak what comes out best for them. For us.... a "BIG HUG" was not the way to discuss SEX in all of its glory-- so we chose to use the words, "a special part of you". For us, sexual intimacy IS the most personal part of ourselves that we share. Love is the root and if parents don't have love and for themselves, each other, or their children do not feel love or understand what love means, then they will have problems dealing with sex and why it is so special. I agree that ALL children need to know from you that you are committed to your family and them as individuals. Tell them!!!
Sex is wonderful, very special and has a lot of facets that go unnoticed like: Modesty, respecting and protecting our bodies, loyalty, respect in general, and how nature plays a part in WHY sex is great, special and wonderful. The Eyre's touch on all aspects incorporated into sex, leaving out nothing.
Ultimately your timing may be different than theirs, but the concepts and delivery are good ways to get the "talk" done. Highly recommended. Don't miss reading what their children all have to say about the "big talk".
Love it.......2007-03-27
This book is great. I've bought it at least 3 times and keep lending it to my friends to never get it back. I must say it is not a book directed toward a liberal point of view, it is most definatly a more conservative parents book. If you have a hard time knowing where to start this book is great because it gives you full on conversations, everything you need to say for each stage of your kids life.
A great place to start.......2006-01-30
I thought this was a great book to help me focus my thoughts and take a positive approach with my kids on this subject. I am an Ob/Gyn and have no problem talking about the "nuts and bolts" of the subject, but what I appreciated about this book was the help it gave me in introducing the rationale for delayed gratification and how to give my kids an idea of why it is such a special thing. I agree with some reviewers about the discussions on masturbation and homosexuality being a bit intolerant (and unrealistic!) for my taste, but the authors are pretty straightforward about their values and say straight out that parents should take what resonates with them, and disregard what doesn't. I will just modify those topics for my kids, but I found the other 99% of this book very helpful.
I am so thankful for this book.......2005-05-05
I loved this book. Like another reviewer, my parents never talked with me about sex. Unlike the other viewer, however, I found this book very helpful. I was so scared to have "The Big Talk" with my children, because I had no idea what to say. When I read this book, I was able to relax about the conversation, and let things come naturally. I'm no longer scared about my children asking questions, because now I have answers.
Customer Reviews:
Emperor's New Clothes.......2007-07-26
I'm not sure why this book has gotten stellar reviews. Maybe folks who read it are insecure about giving a tough review to a book that's trying to teach them something. Regardless, this book is mediocre. The information in it borders four-star-worthy, but the writing is dry, the page layout is reminiscent of a bad magazine design, and it's just not apparent that the research is that good. For my money, I'll stick to the books out of Harvard, as opposed to those out of Harvard's MBAs.
A cookbook for Angel Investors.......2007-05-18
My recent experience with angel investors is that they come in all flavors - from the sophisticated networks of dedicated portfolio managers to the impetuously interested or personal friend. Winning Angels provides a framework on which we can understand risk avoidance strategies, but doesn't go far enough to help most understand the characteristics of great opportunities or more importantly, the appropriate behavior of effective angel investors. I'm hoping there is a next book that enables true angel investors (not just family and friends) to participate as investors should. Angels are a critical part of the start-up ecosystem. Anything that can help make this process more efficient will certainly be welcome. Winning Angels falls short.
Complaint.......2007-01-12
We note that the print of this book looks more like a photocopy. As we paid USD44.99 for each book, we would expect better quality. Kindly look into this matter. Otherwise we wish to seek a refund. Thank you.
Angel Investing 101 - quick read gets you up to speed.......2006-09-06
The saying goes, "A fool and his money are soon parted." Before you part with yours, check this primer on angel investing to ensure you know what you are doing, have asked all the right questions, and understand what angels expect from the process and their investments.
While the book is a bit dated and case studies are skewed to U.K. sources, every word of it is relevant to today's angel investor in need of a quick but thorough education.
Read before swimming with sharks.......2003-07-05
The relationship between Angel, VC and Entrepreneur has been a source of popular confusion. This book clears up some key misunderstandings, such as the different roles Angels and VC's play in the financing process of startup companies. 'Winning Angels' contains a reasonable quantitative element outlining different valuation methods and deal structures, which should be accessible to any reader with a basic understanding of Corporate Finance or Discounted Cash Flow analysis. It's also made particularly credible by the inclusion of interviews with successful Angels. I was struck by the high bar set by the interviewees, and their generally shared opinion that the calibre of entrepreneur was a factor subordinate to all others. Because it's written from an Angel's perspective, the book is skewed towards investor interests. These fall out of alignment with the entrepreneur in at least one key respect: investors are motivated to maximise the return on their portfolio of investments, rather than any individual company's. It follows that Angels will have a tendency to pursue a number of high risk, high payoff vectors rather than companies with a high probability of success but less financial upside. This isn't a criticism of the book, just an observation of differing interests. In short: high quality advice for people on both sides of the table.
Book Description
Angel Financing for Entrepreneurs will give you the information you need to understand how angel investors think, as well as how to identify investor expectations, understand the investment analysis process, and prepare for post-investment requirements. Written by Susan Preston, an experienced angel investor, worldwide speaker and consultant on angel financing, and former Kauffman Foundation Entrepreneur-in-Residence, this hands-on resource, explains the factors that determine how private equity investors spend their money and what they expect from entrepreneurs. For example:
- Most venture capitalists do not invest in seed or start-up financing rounds
- Investors typically require seasoned management, with successful start-up experience
- Investors are looking for entrepreneurs with passion for their ideas and the willingness to take and apply sound advice
- Business plans must be well-written with detailed financial projections that extend 3–5 years
- Investors are looking for a clear path to profitability in the business model
- Entrepreneurs must have developed a corporate structure that is clean and uncomplicated
- And much more
Customer Reviews:
Required Reference for all Angel Investors and Founder Entrepreneurs.......2007-08-13
This book is full of useful information for both angel investors and entrepreneurs seeking funds for any start-up. There are anecdotes, facts and figures describing the industry and trends, a comprehensive list of resources, groups and sample agreements. There are checklists for use in everything from business planning to due diligence. If you are interested enough to be reading this review you should just get the book, you will be glad you did.
Well worth the $30 I paid,.......2007-07-23
And I'm only in the 3rd chapter. I'll agree I was disheartened when I realized at least half the book is an appendix and the first chapter is a bit repetitive, but....., the information that follows is well worth the $30 I paid. A little more work and $50 for the book would only raise an eyebrow or two. If you expect to get $1,000 worth of reference material or a bible for an industry insider, well...., forget it. If you're really on the fence considering it, buy it second-hand at $15, don't buy coffee for a month and I'll guarantee you'll be well ahead of the game. Is it for someone with previous experience in Angel Investing? No, go write your own book if you have that experience. Is it useful for the price and its' stated intent? No question. There's obvious experience being laid out in the book and that's worth thousands more than any price I've seen asked for the book.
Just my 2 cents, go to get back to that next chapter now...
A great resource..........2007-05-02
I just completed "Angel Financing for Entrepreneurs" and found it to be exceptionally informative. I manage an angel investment group, and this book conveys exactly the information I would like entrepreneurs to know before approaching our group for investment. The presentation of and explanatory comments regarding a preferred stock term sheet (a staple in our industry) were ecxellent, as were the discussions of determining your capital requirements and preparing for presentations with investors. It's a great balance of technical information with solid, down-to-earth advice on raising money. It should give readers a great advantage prior to launching what for some is the daunting process of raising capital for an early-stage company.
A lot and not.......2007-04-19
I purchased this book with great expectations. I wanted more information on structuring deals and term sheets. This book has 375 pages, but glossary and contact information take up almost half. Most of the information in this book is general - I can find most with a simple search on the internet. There are a few great hints and key points that angel investors would look at. It's a hard cover book, but the information that is useful could of been put in a small paperback at a much lower price. Good book for someone who knows nothing about angel investors, but lacks real substance for serious entrepreneurs.
Customer Reviews:
Great book.......2007-10-01
I think this book is fantastic. It is an easy read and the kind of book I could not put down. Some people have said in their reviews they think it is a bit out dated, but from a psychological perspective the theories and ideas put forth in the book are classic and still used today. I think it is a great book for students, but I am not so sure parents would find it helpful. The book is written from more of a clinical perspective that parents may not find very helpful and may even take offense or not fully understand certain things discussed in the book.
Excellent resource for parents, students, and professionals.......2006-02-27
This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the development of infant/parent bonds, and the importance of such bonds to social, emotional, behavioral and language development. The book easily combines both clinical and theoretical viewpoints, and offers a sequence of how and when attachments begin, the elements necessary for positive attachments, and several case histories illustrating the authors' viewpoints. This volume would be of particular interest to students studying early child development as it is clearly written, and begins to bridge the gap between observation of infant/parent attachments, assessment, and intervention.
Good read For Both the Professional and Parent.......2003-05-24
This is a good book for both professionals and parents, who would like to know more about the science behind their baby's behavior. However, there is not dry statistics. Rather, the science is clearly explained with many "real life" examples. In the table of contents, each section is clearly labeled, so you can either read the whole book or go to relevant chapters. This is a very good book to start exploring attachment research and issues.
Brazelton is a well know scientist who is a pioneer in early development research. His neonatal behavioral assessment scale (described in chpt. 8) is the professional gold standard used by many researchers, health professionals, and child-related agencies.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in infant research and early development.
Amazon.com
Filled with great ideas and enthralling art activities, Young at Art introduces parents and caregivers to a fascinating world that Montessori teachers will find wonderfully familiar. Author Susan Striker created the delightfully different Anti-Coloring Book series and now turns her considerable talents to explaining concepts of child development in a manner that all of us can enjoy. She passionately believes that children can use artistic tools and methods as gateways to all forms of learning, from vocabulary building to early math skills and improved dexterity, and cautions parents to rethink the way we look at art materials. Pipe cleaners form wire sculptures far more detailed than their typical role as bug antenna, and toddlers can have a better experience painting with only one or two colors than they would with an entire palette that instantly turns a muddy brown. Including a wide range of group and individual activities for all age ranges (and even songs to sing during cleanup time), this book is a priceless addition to an art-loving family. Jill Lightner
Book Description
An inspiring guide to encouraging creativity in preschool-age children. Young at Art is the first and only book about the value and impact of art on very young children. Directed toward parents and educators of one-to five-year-olds, Susan Striker explains why childrens art is not a frill but the very foundation upon which all later fundamental skills are built.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent resource if you can get past the preachy tone.......2007-10-07
I got this book because I am very interested in developing my toddler's artistic and creative abilities. There are some great things about this book. And some very bad things.
The good:
- The descriptions of projects in the book are fantastic. The projects are innovative and really designed to allow children to freely express themselves. The projects made me think about art, and even about the world, differently and helped me to understand how the world looks from a toddler's perspective.
- There is a lot of detail given about why a particular activity is important, or why it should be done a certain way. In general, there's a lot of detail in the book, and the author does a great job suggesting variations on projects or ways to look at materials in a different way.
- The author clearly delineates which supplies you should use and how you should use them. The book is more or less a comprehensive curriculum for preschool art - there are suggested books to read, songs, recommendations on where to get art materials, etc. This would be an awesome resource for a homeschooling family, or for a preschool teacher looking to break away from the traditional way of looking at and teaching art.
Okay. That's what's good about the book. And believe me, there's a lot that's good. However. What's bad about the book would probably turn a lot of people off, and away from using the excellent activities in the book with their child. The bad:
- The author's tone is extremely judgmental, holier-than-thou, snarky, etc. It gets extraordinarily tiresome after the first few pages. The laundry list of things you should NEVER EVER EVER do is miles long and goes on for page after page after page. Let me sum some of them up for you - basically, everything you have ever done with your child in regards to art is wrong and everything they've done in daycare, preschool, with their grandparents, at the babysitter's, etc. is also wrong and has almost certainly irreparably damaged their fragile self-esteem, their creativity, and their budding artistic talent. Having kids make "holiday themed" art is wrong. Telling a child a picture is pretty is wrong. Giving kids more than one color of crayon at a time is wrong. Speaking sharply when a child draws on your wall, table, priceless heirloom Sargent portrait, etc. is wrong - you should speak calmly and redirect the child to draw on some paper without telling them drawing on the wall is wrong because hey, the kid was just trying to express him/herself. Altering your child's artwork in any way is wrong. Throwing even a single piece of artwork out is wrong and you are an insensitive parent if you do that. Putting kids' art on the refrigerator is wrong; you should take it to a frame shop and get it framed. Thinking you know what art is or what's best for your child is wrong; in fact, the author states that the more parents think they know about art, the more likely they are to "damage" their child by doing the wrong thing. The "wrong thing" is anything that the author didn't tell you to do. Oh, and never, ever give your child a coloring book or draw on a piece of paper with them or the Holy Gods of Art (and apparently the author thinks she is one) will smite you, with great vengeance and furious anger.
Exhausted yet? I could go on with the ways the author thinks parents permanently cripple their children's creativity by doing things people have done for decades - the selection above is from the first 20 pages of the book, before the author's even talked about any projects. Unfortunately, the scolding and proselytizing doesn't stop. Throughout the book the author takes any and every opportunity to point out to you what a crappy parent you are because you do X which is not the way the author would do it. It really, REALLY gets old.
- There's not a lot of backup provided for any of the author's claims. She's taught elementary school art for 25 years. She's not a child psychologist, a developmental specialist, a physical therapist, a special educator, a Ph.D. in education, or someone with an advanced degree in fine art. She apparently has done no studies or academic research on childhood art instruction, or at least she doesn't cite it in this book if she has. Yet she makes claims that really only have credence if they're provided by someone who has some kind of credential or who has data from a controlled study. Some of the claims are so outrageous, they are just begging for some kind of citation or backing evidence from some kind of expert source. She doesn't provide any of that. In the back of the book she thanks a few people who seem to have educational credentials but the majority of supporting cites in the text are unrelated to the counterintuitive and incredible-sounding "facts" she presents as the indisputable, gospel truth.
- The author does an awful lot of inappropriate projecting, claiming that kids feel this way or that way when X happens after they make art. Maybe she felt insulted when someone referred to her art as "pretty," or her kid was overly sensitive to being told not to color on the wall. But that doesn't mean all kids are that way and claiming that it's a simple equation of "you do X, and therefore your child's confidence and self-worth is destroyed" is both inappropriate and irresponsible. I am a little unsure how a parent drawing with a 2-year-old, who does not fully understand that other people exist as separate entities from him, will kill his creativity and artistic confidence at a young age. The two-year-old is not really aware that other people even have feelings, and is certainly not capable of seeing a parent making a line on a piece of paper as a negative value judgment about their own work. There's a lot the author claims that doesn't jive with contemporary research about how a child's self-concept or their relationships with others develop.
It's really tough to give this book the recommendation it probably deserves, because there's no way the average parent is going to read this and not either a. roll their eyes so much that they stick that way in their head eventually or b. feel terribly guilty about all the ways that they've doomed their child to life as a corporate accountants payable clerk instead of encouraging them to be the next Picasso. I think if you can read the book from the perspective of "I want to encourage my child to make art, and I'm not really sure how" and read the project descriptions, and skip all the holier-than-thou preaching, it is a great book and a wonderful resource for any parent. Let's face it, just by reading something like this, you are obviously a caring and involved parent. Having your kid carve a Jack O' Lantern on Halloween isn't going to permanently warp their creativity and their sense of self-worth, despite what this author says. You know that, and I know that. So take what's good from this and take the rest with an enormous grain of salt. Some amazing artists out there started out making "hand turkeys" at Thanksgiving and using the whole box of 64 crayons. A child's creativity and sense of self-worth are a whole lot more resilient than this author seems to think.
A book that I've found more helpful, which has the same themes about valuing the process of making the art over the product of the process is "First Art" by Maryann Kohl. The philosophies of Striker and Kohl are very similar but Kohl's book is a lot less preachy, and has the advantage of being VERY user-friendly (easy to read, supplies for projects clearly outlined, much less wordy, more focused on enabling parents to get their kids involved in art projects and less concerned with long-winded philosophizing, etc.), a lot more so than this book. All in all, I'm glad I read this but I think I'm going to use "First Art" a lot more on a day-to-day basis.
An excellent how-to book.......2007-03-15
If like me, you are a young mom trying to encourage your child's creativity to blossom, or even a preschool teacher, then this is definitely a worthwhile read...it comes with helpful strategies, and useful tips on how to promote creativity in young kids...and some ideas are common sense, but its upon reading the book that you really begin to see how other useful ideas might be implemented.
Valuable insights and info on how to teach art to kids.......2006-08-12
I found this book to be very valuable even though I do not agree with 100% of her theories. She gives a great overview of several medium and as well as the actual products she recommends and the best way to teach children how to learn through art. I can see how my kids have already benefited.
Where do I disagree? While I agree that children need to be creative and explore on their own - I do not believe that the occasional coloring book or craft project is going to squash the child's creativity. My children definitely know the difference between their art time and the crafts they do at pre-school to learn about the American flag, holidays etc. And these craft projects that center around topics do reinforce concepts and help them learn - something the author is opposed to (she explicity says that children do not learn about holidays through craft projects where they make Christmas trees etc.)
In spite of disagreeing on this point I found the book to be excellent and would recommend it.
excellent book from wonderful woman.......2006-07-08
Living near Susan Striker, I have had the opportunity to meet her on several occasions including having my oldest children (only at the time) participate in workshops with her. She is fabulous! The ideas in the book are easily incorporated and make a huge difference I think in inspiring children to work at their own level and enjoy the process. It has also helped me as a parent and home educator to feel more confident in guiding the process as well as selecting those rare excellent programs for children in art. Too many even "art schools" focus too much on the outcome or product. Doing it at home actually allows the children to be more of themselves. I also have personally witnessed the effects education wise on my children. My oldest is now 7 and reading at a junior high level. I followed this book and he was, on his own, writing his letters, name, etc at age 3 (well before his personal peer group) and I think this is because of the freedom giving to him in experimenting before then. His early markings were deemed valuable by us and so he kept wanting to do more and then copy us. I am purchasing another copy of this book for my sister and her just turning one year old son so they can enjoy art together as well.
this book is an absolute must.......2006-04-27
quick but to the point: this book is an excellent resource for parents and teachers, of which i am both. it is developmentally appropriate and her theories can be used in any setting of children ranging from special needs right up to gifted. this book allows me to never say "what do i do now with my 2 1/2 year old daughter?"
Product Description
This comprehensive resource guide focuses on the development of the whole child. It includes information that parents and caregivers can use to provide quality care for children. Developmental traits are outlined in weekly and monthly increments. Paperback, 480 pages.
Customer Reviews:
School Days.......2007-09-22
Creative Resourcees for infants & Toddlers (Creative Resources for Infantas and Toddlers) is a great book, I wish that I would have gotten it alot sooner. It has really helped me with my homework assignments.
Excellent resource for babies and toddlers.......2007-09-06
This is and excellent and useful guide to help you determine what you can do with your baby each day to help him/her develop skills that prepare them for school. The book take time to explain what exactly you are helping to develop and each day can be something different.
How to play with Toddler.......2006-02-24
Good book, lists lots of games to play with child. Shows developmental goals you child should be hitting.
Creative Resources Review.......2005-09-03
The item arrived promptly and in the condition promised. The seller e-mailed the shipment tracking number and the date of shipment.
A need for infant and toddler caregivers!.......2005-09-01
I took the Early Childhood Education program and did work in a toddler program. This book was so useful and all the activities in this book were very age-appropriate and creative. It has a wide variety of activities and I like the fact that they start from infants to toddlers.
Book Description
Get the business insight that has raised millions in capital funding for over 50,000 entrepreneurs.
If you're an entrepreneur or own a small, fast-growing businesses,
Angel Capital provides a complete toolkit for raising capital in today's challenging economic landscape. The authors, who manage the largest angel network in the U.S., offer real-world advice on how to find investors and take control of the private placement process. Using revolutionary typology and unmatched proprietary research, they explain all stages of raising capital, from valuation to negotiation to due diligence. In addition, you'll find a comprehensive directory of alternative capital resources, based on research of over 2,000 organizations, and a legal appendix that serves as a short course in exempt offerings and provides the skills needed to have success with any early-stage business venture or investment. Order your copy today.
Download Description
Fast track route to understanding the business of angel investing. Covers the key areas of angel investing from understanding the inefficiencies of the marketplace and the evolution of the industry to developing a successful angel investing practice. Examples and lessons from some of the world's most active private equity marketplaces, including the United States, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. Includes a glossary of key concepts and a comprehensive resources guide.
Book Description
Caring for young children is one of the most challenging tasks an adult will ever face. No matter how much you love your child, there will be moments filled with frustration, anger, and even desperation. There will also be questions: Why does my four-year-old deliberately lie to me? Why won’t my three-year-old listen to me? Should I ever spank my preschooler when she is disobedient? Over the years, millions of parents just like you have come to trust the Positive Discipline series and its commonsense approach to child-rearing.
Now completely updated to report the latest research in child development and learning, Positive Discipline for Preschoolers will teach you how to use methods to raise a child who is responsible, respectful, and resourceful. You’ll find practical solutions for how to:
- Avoid the power struggles that often come with mastering sleeping, eating, and potty training
- See misbehavior as an opportunity to teach nonpunitive discipline—not punishment
- Instill valuable social skills and positive behavior inside and outside the home by using methods that teach important life skills
- Employ family and class meetings to tackle behavorial challenges
- And much, much more!
This revised and updated third edition includes information from the latest research on neurobiology, diet and exercise, gender differences and behavior, the importance of early relationships and parenting, and new approaches to parenting in the age of mass media. In addition, this book offers new information on reducing anxiety and helping children feel safe in troubled times.
Amazon.com
If you're someone who opens a book to read the last chapter first, you won't be disappointed by what you find in Our Last Best Shot: Guiding Our Children Through Early Adolescence. The final chapter, "Some Concluding Thoughts," offers sharp insights into the early adolescent years. "Early adolescence is partly about loss," writes author Laura Sessions Stepp. "Parents lose their children's unquestioning adoration; kids lose their innocence, and sometimes their faith in adults." She adds observations on a wide variety of topics--communication, respect, responsibility, and the influence of other adults--that can be used as a road map for parents trying to help their children navigate these years with success.
If you're looking for a book based solely on academic research and written by an expert, this one may not satisfy. However, Sessions Stepp, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist for the Washington Post, uses her keen observation and interviewing skills to uncover the world of today's young adolescents. After two years of conducting numerous in-depth interviews and extensive research into current developmental theory, she seamlessly combines the two in a book that is both engaging and authoritative. One of the most important points Stepp makes is in regard to the rapidity of growth--emotional, physical, and intellectual--that young adolescents undergo. She writes of recent research, "I was fascinated to be told that adolescence is a time of growth and change rivaling infancy in its speed and accomplishments." This relatively recent revelation gives an urgency to her argument that adolescence is "our last best shot" at helping kids grow into successful adults. Considering the value and likeability of this often overlooked age group, Stepp's wisdom and insights will benefit anyone who cares about and works with young adolescents. Our Last Best Shot is an opportunity to look at today's teens in a new light and see futures filled with hope and possibility. --Virginia Smyth
Book Description
Our Last Best Shot presents the personal stories of twelve girls and boys from across America. Their stories, and Laura Sessions Stepp's extensive research, provide real insight for parents trying to raise well-adjusted children in this difficult age. Filled with wisdom and common sense, based on cutting-edge research, and featuring an invaluable resource list, this is a book that parents and educators cannot afford to be without.
Customer Reviews:
EVERYONE should read this book!.......2005-06-18
Parents, Educators, Youth and Child Workers, Legislators, etc., would benefit greatly from the wisdom in this book. This tells what is on kids' minds today, danger signals, prevention, communication, friendships. This book tells why it is important to educate children about sex, to not "micro-manage" children in school, how standardized testing fails our children, the value of healthy/mentoring adult friendships, and the critical task of setting examples for children in our behaviors - acting like adults, responsibility, discovery, and relationships in particular.
This book is incredibly well-organized and well-written on top of all the valuable information it imparts.
Easy engrossing reading.......2002-09-18
While waiting for clients to show up to see a house, I picked up this book and started reading. Having a new middle schooler, I found that I could not put this down because I could see him in so many of the situations. As soon as I got home, I went on-line and ordered it right away. I will be reading every page of this book. Very engrossing. You feel that you know each individual as you read about them. Also easy reading. As the mother of a three year old, I have many interuptions and it is nice to have a book that can be read in short spurts. This is a must read for anyone with children entering into those adolescent years!
Really Excellent Book.......2002-06-26
I felt like I was reading "MY Last Best Shot" as I read through this book. I have three sons, ages 10, 12, & 13, and this book was lent to me by my middle son's teacher. I liked it so much I bought my own copy. Every chapter opened my eyes to something else I didn't know about or have not been doing with my sons. I strongly recommend this book to anyone with children near or at the pre-teen age level, particularly parents who find most parenting books boring, patronizing or unrealistic.
A hard look at adolescents, but a must read.......2002-02-16
As a mother of a 14 year old child, I was so grateful to read that my vision was comparable to the author's. This book is all about provisioning up your child. It is easy to love a baby, unconditionally, but much harder when your child is in the teenage years and ready to challenge you. I liked the subtle messages that the author sent - give your child chores to do, give them a sense of self, love them unconditionally, and most of all, be a part of their lives. My heart went out to the children in this book who, in my estimation, are not going to make it.
Great book about frequently overlooked topic.......2001-04-17
When my children were babies and toddlers, I found overwhelming amounts of information about their needs and care-- magazines, books, TV shows. Now that they are 15 and 9, I can't find much worth reading to help me with their needs. I found that this book was very helpful. The author interviewed many teenagers and profiled 12 of them in this book. The book is an interesting glimpse into their lives, and the lives of their families, and the unique problems they each face. Although this is not a "self-help" book, with prescriptions for how to solve the problems parents face, the final chapter summarizes the author's findings from the interviews and gives advice to parents. This summary should be copied and posted where every parent of a teenager will see it frequently because it's a very complete summary of things that teenagers need from their parents.
I am also starting to work my way through the books listed in the bibliography. It appears to be a great resource for further reading about adolescents.
Finally, I wanted to explain the reason I awarded only 4 stars. I felt that the book focussed too much on teenagers who have some kind of "problem": poverty, drugs, neglect, etc. Although the book was useful for all parents of older children and teens, I think it would have been better for me if there had been a few more middle-class kids who are doing well in school in the book. That's the kind of kids that I am dealing with, and they still have problems. I suspect that's the kind of kid a lot of... customers are raising too.
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