Customer Reviews
MUST READ! 
2008-04-28
Every parent of a strong willed child should read this book! It was so helpful! Gave me some great tools to work with - my daughter and I are having a much better relationship because of this book.
What a Relief! 2008-03-31
This book was such a help. As a compliant parent of a very strong willed, hot headed 4 year old I was wearing myself out with all the work it was. I was even a director of a shelter that taught kids and parents behavioral modification and I felt I was really failing. The book normalized my sons' limit testing, showed me how to change my techniques in dealing with him and we have begun to see some turn around in behavior. It is definitely a slow process but I felt better almost instantly as I began to understand my son's temperment and learning style. Excellent book for struggling parents with strong willed kids!
Great Book! 2008-03-06
The book was a great help! It covers every question I had regarding my strong willed child!
A Dose of Reality 2008-02-17
I have read many parenting books, but none were as clear or relevant to my life as this one. As a former teacher, I quickly connected with the need for limits as this author first wrote about for the classroom. He then went on to write this book. I couln't put it down. I am a mom of 1 and 2 year-olds, yet I still found time to read this book.
I love the examples! I have told many friends they need to read this book, but I told them they have to get their own because I want to keep the "tool box" suggestions close for quick reference.
A must read for both compliant and strong willed children!
Clear practical advice for parents 
2008-01-30
I am only 1/3 of the way through the book, but already began implementing its suggestions and seen a sea of change in our household.
If you are raising a feisty, opinionated child, first read "Raising your Spirited Child" and then read this book. I was starting to think I was raising the world's most difficult child (just turned 3), and wondered if there was something really wrong with her. These books have been godsend. I recognized my child on every page, and it was heartening to be assured that there is nothing wrong with her - she is just very strong-willed and spirited. This was a revelation after the first tantrum I observed since reading the first chapter (did not have to wait long - we had these every day). My daughter followed exactly the steps the author described. The relief I felt can only be understood by a parent who worried whether there was seriously something wrong with her child.
"Raising your Spirited Child" is far better in explaining/describing the temperament traits of spirited children. But I found its advice and discipline hints too nebulous and impractical. If my child is dawdling getting dressed, yes, I could suggest that we pretend that she is putting on a space suit, but when I am harried, and need to get out the door, I hardly have any energy left for creativity.
This book gives clear, practical advice that is easy to follow. More importantly, it is like a helpful partner standing behind you, offering support and reassurance. "See, there she goes testing the limits. Will you stay strong and teach her where those limits are, or are you going to cave in to her?"
It is somewhat repetitive, on a point of being annoying. I get it, even without the simplistic analogies the author presents to drive his point home. But, maybe the repetition is needed to the reader a lesson. It is a quick read, and now I am after my husband to read this book. For the record, this is the first book that I am insisting that he should read.
Easy Read 2008-06-28
Author uses practical examples, shows practical solutions that parents need to take time to learn, has shown me a huge light at the end of a very dark tunnel for me and my family.
"Very Helpful 2008-06-28
This book was so helpful! I have read other books about my "spirited" son but they mainly describe personality and how to work with it. "Setting Limits" was wonderful because it gave detailed steps about talking with and interacting with your strong willed child. There is nothing so revolutionary in here - it's back to basics but the plan really works. Best of all, the book is very comprehensive yet it's not so long that you can't read it quickly and start using it right away. I have really seen a difference already!
Great practical advice! 2008-05-24
This book seemed like it was written about my 4 year old. I was so thankful to have this as a tool to help me be a better parent. You will learn something about yourself as well like what your parenting style is and why it doesn't "work " with your childs personality.Parenting is a wonderful job but it's hard so anything to make it easier is great.
Just tried the setting a timer trick to give him a limited time to get dressed, brush teeth etc.. worked great.
I'm not even 1/2 way through and can't wait to read more!
Great book 2008-05-22
I just think this is a great book. It really gives you a understanding of the "dances" your family goes through. I found myself saying.."wow, that is soooo us"...or "that is defiantly my daughter."
I have 3 children and my youngest is the most difficult..i had a hard time understanding what the the world i was doing wrong with this one, total frustration.
I read this book from cover to cover in about 1-2 days and followed what it suggested for certain situations (it does give scenarios and things to do about it). I saw improvement as I followed it's advice. Do I have a perfect child now? NOOOOOO! Is she better behaved? You bet! We still have our battles but the temper tantrums she threw (like tearing her room up when she was sent there for misbehaving or not listening) has stopped cause she knows it gets her nowhere. She does still try to battle me on numerous things, but knows deep down her chances of winning are slim. HAHA, I WIN! but really......
I recommend this book 100%. And it can work if you take the time to read it and FOLLOW through all the time!
Indispensable 2008-05-21
It's as if this book was written specifically about my son! The tips are wonderful - it helps you look at discipline in a whole new way and concentrate on things you never even would have thought of. This book will make a big difference in my relationship with my son.
