Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Parenting by the Books


A colleague and friend of Eric's was asking for some parental advice. Her daughter (also named Olivia) is apparently "spirited" as well. Eric suggested she read, "Raising Your Spirited Child". He came home the other evening and asked me if we still had the book to loan her. Above is just a sampling of the parenting books we own that I have poured over. I still have yet to find one that tells me why being an informed mama does not always translate to rule abiding kiddos...

5 comments:

KarenK said...

Sometimes having so much information about parenting available can be overwhelming. On my son's school Mother's Day poster, he listed that I like to read books about babies. What does that tell you about the kinds of books on the nightstand? And yes, I am often shocked that these little people don't know about how they should be acting in response to my positive discipline, my love and logic parenting...or that they don't appreciate my cooking!

Katie said...

No kidding. I appreciate you relating and the efforts you're clearly making as well. Our kids will never say we did not try hard. Be well, girl. k

Nick said...

I should probably check out some of those books - k! When you read my latest post you'll understand. Some days are just sooo hard!

Nick

Anonymous said...

Something else to keep in mind:
Things people told my mother when I was a child that were "proven" to be the best things to do...
1) Smoke while nursing. It will help you lose the weight.
2) Don't get divorced until your kids are older; then they'll understand. Yes, we know it means continuing to live in an unhappy marriage. Just pretent you're happy for a little while longer.
3) Your newborns should sleep on their stomachs.

In the end, what I know about my mother is that she is my boon companion and best friend. She did her best as we all will and cried at every gold star I brought home. It is these kinds of things, I think, that will stand out with your girls when they're older: How much you love them and how hard you try.
Smooch.

Katie said...

Love this comment, Lizzie! You are a riot and so spot on with your wisdom. I adore you and thank you! k