In the follow-up to her popular Secrets of the Baby Whisperer, Hogg offers communication techniques designed to ease parents and children through the trying moments of toddlerhood. To her trademark techniques of "T.L.C." (talk, listen, clarify) and "R&R" (routines and rituals), she adds "H.E.L.P." for raising toddlers: Hold yourself back; Encourage exploration; Limit their exposure to extremely frustrating or overstimulating situations; Praise. Using real-life examples, Hogg shows how parents, sometimes unwittingly, sabotage their own parenting through their anxious behavior. When a mother talks about how nothing seems to hold her son's attention, Hogg suggests she stop overscheduling and allow the little boy to do nothing—chances are the overstimulation is making his behavior worse. While the book's focus is on defusing difficult situations, Hogg offers basic advice on most aspects of childrearing, including toilet training, protecting newly ambulatory toddlers, sibling rivalry and tantrums. Her suggestions are occasionally humorous and always practical. On security blankets, she suggests, "Take it! If you're traveling make sure you take whatever item makes your child feel safe." Readers who are already familiar with
Baby Whisperer
will benefit most from this book, as there's not much of an introduction to Hogg's philosophy. Still, the title offers a fresh and useful perspective for parents. (Feb.)
Forecast:A 15-city tour and extensive national promotion—along with the track record for the first book—should make this one a big seller.
