Thursday, May 31, 2012

ADDING TO MY PARENTING LIBRARY


I got two new books in the mail recently.

Grace Based Parenting by Dr. Tim Kimmel

The author says, "Christians frequently believe that the battle for a child's heart and soul is fought on the outside-with rigid rules and boundaries-when in fact just the opposite is true. He underscores the importance of communicating the unconditional love that Christ offers and affirming this timeless message of grace to one's family."  The book is based around the three essential needs in kids' lives: security, significance and strength.

Boys Adrift by Leonard Sax: After having taught for 20 years in elementary school I didn't realize how much kids change when they get to middle school. I am appalled by the behaviors, language and attitudes I have seen this past year in my 6th and 7th grade classes. I do not want this for Sam and I want to do all I can to prevent it.

As soon as I read the description of this book on Amazon, I knew I had to buy it.

"Something scary is happening to boys today. From kindergarten to college, American boys are, on average, less resilient and less ambitious than they were a mere twenty years ago. The gender gap in college attendance and graduation rates has widened dramatically. While Emily is working hard at school and getting A’s, her brother Justin is goofing off. He’s more concerned about getting to the next level in his videogame than about finishing his homework. Now, Dr. Leonard Sax delves into the scientific literature and draws on more than twenty years of clinical experience to explain why boys and young men are failing in school and disengaged at home. He shows how social, cultural, and biological factors have created an environment that is literally toxic to boys. He also presents practical solutions, sharing strategies which educators have found effective in re-engaging these boys at school, as well as handy tips for parents about everything from homework, to videogames, to medication."

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