Disciplining Young Children

Children's Literature

Written for teens who are also parents, this well-researched book is ideal for new parents of any age. An introduction to discipline, understanding your child's temperament, preventing behavior problems, dealing with toddler misbehaver, areas of special concern, and spending time with our children are all discussed in six chapters. Keller defines discipline as teaching rather than punishment, and this is a first step in developing parenting skills that are positive for both parent and child. Each chapter includes goals or outcomes, and each point is discussed simply and completely, with just the right amount of reference to theory or research. Vignettes on real parents and their personal experiences are interspersed throughout. The premise of the book is that each child is an individual and parents should understand this individuality as they guide their child. Each chapter contains a "Did You Know" or "Points to Consider" box to further explain questions that may arise. The color photos help focus the reader on the real reason for reading the book. One in a series of five books designed for teens who parent. 2001, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 15 up. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger

School Library Journal

Gr 9 Up-Both of these attractive and useful books provide up-to-date information on their chosen subjects, addressed specifically to teen parents. Disciplining touches on many key behavioral issues with an emphasis on what can be expected from a toddler and how to manage that child while maintaining respect. Health Care focuses on primary areas of concern such as coughing, vomiting, bleeding, or choking. Symptoms and what they could mean are discussed as well as what to do, or not to do, if a problem arises. The book also clearly states when to call the doctor. Both texts are easy to read, evenhanded, and direct, presenting information either in short paragraphs or in bulleted lists. The material is well organized and easy to access. Each chapter ends with questions that allow readers to summarize what they've learned or think about what they might do in a given situation. Interspersed throughout are occasional anecdotes from teens describing their own experiences. The full-color photos in both titles are more decorative than informative, serving primarily as visual breaks. These titles can be picked up and used as a quick reference guide for a particular problem or as ways to get a better sense of the myriad skills that are necessary to be an effective parent.-Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.