THE PARENTING BIBLE: The Answers to Parents' Most Common Questions

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. (May)