Raising Cooperative Kids

Book excerpt: Not since Dr. Spock's The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care published in 1946 has there been such a comprehensive book on parenting. Raising Cooperative Kids focuses on children from toddlerhood to early teens, picking up where Spock's book leaves off. Patterson, who was one of the leaders of the behavioral movement in psychology, gets straight to the heart of the power struggle that begins when children learn to speak and interact with others. This fight for power is at the core of every tantrum and argument that will ever occur between parents and children. Together, Patterson and Forgatch give parents the formula to overcome this struggle and make children want to cooperate. Their parenting techniques tap deep-rooted human instincts, making them universal and easy to use no matter where you live or how your family is structured. Developed over 40 years of practice and tested in clinical studies, these techniques enable parents to teach their children new behaviors, change unwanted behaviors, and reduce family conflicts. Unlike most parenting books, the focus is first on changing the behaviors of parents and giving them proven tools to bring out the best in their children. Specific guidance is included for issues ranging from how to share the bathroom during the morning rush to what to do when a child misbehaves. The authors also remind us of the importance of play#8212enjoying each other and sharing time and activities together is the cornerstone of a happy family. Raising Cooperative Kids is the only parenting book you will ever need.