Description

Dr. Thomas Phelan – 1-2-3 Magic ParentingPreviously available as a booklet in conjunction with a workshop and as a video, clinical psychologist Phelan’s simple, effective child-management program has now been issued as a trade paperback. The gist of the plan is to enable parents to discipline children, ages 2 to 12, by instituting a system of counting and time-outs, delivered straightforwardly and unemotionally. How the regimen is used to stop undesirable behavior, stimulate desirable conduct, and cope with children’s testing is conveyed in Phelan’s candid style, filled with common sense, concrete examples, and lots of reassuring humor. Time-and parent-tested, the methods are applied in identifiable situations (pouting, bedtime, dressing) as well in the all-too familiar incidences of children testing and manipulating their elders. Best of all, the method enables parents to control their kids without yelling . . . or worse. In addition, Phelan covers homework, active listening, self-esteem, behavior in public, and the use of his method in schools. An excellent, workable, and supportive resource for parents and educators. Irene Wood  ReviewIf your child has begun to rule the roost a bit more than you’d like, this book provides a system to get your family operating smoothly. Especially sensible is Phelan’s theory that children shouldn’t be argued with endlessly to convince them to do what you want them to do. He also wisely points out the best way to get your child to repeat unwanted behavior is to have a highly emotional reaction to it. The plan is simple, and though it’s not quite magic, it may feel like it is. — Susan K. Perry, Ph.D., L.A. Parent Magazine, September 1999This newly revised second edition provides a fine coverage of effective discipline choices to be used on children ages 1-12. From handling sibling rivalry and arguing to avoiding self-defeating syndromes and reactions, this covers everything from home to public behavior, providing parents with plenty of solid tips which work. — Midwest Book Review