Family Rules: Raising Responsible Children

I love this book. As we became insta-parents to my stepdaughter people from everywhere were giving us books. This seems to be the most practical hands on book with 1-2-3-Magic as the other one. We have our 'rules-consequences' chart in a very visible place, had a family meeting when we prepared it and it helps us as parents and our daughter to be clear of what is expected and what consequences her choices will breed. Great book!

This is THE book of parenting. While there are many books on parenting out there, this one has many good qualities: 1) It is founded upon the solid principles of behavioral sciences. 2) It offers a complete program, starting from imposing simple rules and ending with how to build a character in the child. 3) It puts the fundamentals first: discipline and structure. 4) It offers principles and not dogmas. It is up to you how to apply the content and how to adapt it to your principles, values and lifestyle. 5) It is not afraid to talk about punishments (i.e. 'consequences') and it shows the difference between punishment and abuse. Bottom line is: if one believes that "unconditional love" works, he is wrong. Discipline, structure and firm rules are an intrinsic part of learning to become a fully grown human being. We show our love towards our children not only by giving them affection but also by helping them to become responsible adults. Doing otherwise simply deprives the children of good habits that will serve them a lifetime. Wanna know more? Buy and read the book. At least twice.

I'm a family counselor and have been using this book in my practice over the last 20 years: Family Rules is never out of date. I'm so glad that the book has been republished, I've been purchasing any used one I could find to give to my clients who struggle to raise motivated, responsible, well adjusted children. This book is clear and concise and helps parents design consequences for unacceptable behavior that help the child learn rather than simply punish. The book is positive and very easily understood. I highly, highly recommend it.

I am a pediatrician, so I have a professional vestment in parenting books in addition to raising my own children. Children feel more secure when they know the limits of acceptable behavior. This book tells you how to stop arguing or lecturing and instead establish clear rules with consequences. This is a popular theme in many of the current parenting books such as the "Love and Logic" books by Jim and Charles Fay. Family Rules is very well organized, easy to read, and gives many practical examples. I believe this book is out of print but I'm hoping this review will revive an interest in it.