The book is written in dictionary-style. It's most useful as a resource guide sitting on the shelf patiently awaiting the next parenting conundrum.
I like this format because I hate sitting down and just reading a parenting book. By the time an actual problem arises I've forgotten everything I've read. I would rather use parenting books on an as-needed basis rather than reading them from cover-to-cover. "Perfect Parenting" fits this bill "perfectly."
I gave the book the acid test and used it immediately on some of my own parenting situations. We had the little matter of siblings disrespecting each other on a daily--hourly?--basis and I found some helpful hints under "Siblings, hateful emotions" (no, I'm not making this category up--kinda scary, but it fit my situation).
This little exercise did, however, point out one of the book's shortcomings regarding basic organization. The book has no index (one of my personal literary pet peeves) which makes it more difficult to find information. The book does have a comprehensive index-like table of contents, but in my opinion it does not replace the need for a true index.
But don't let this small quibble discourage you from this book. Overall, the book is excellent and I have turned to it many times.
BOTTOM LINE: It's a buy. Keep it handy for all those challenging parenting moments when your brain can't work fast enough!
Which ever you decide to do, once you have had an opportunity to quickly consult your Perfect Parenting dictionary by simply looking under "Disrespect", you will find the solution that best fits your child and your parenting style. The solutions might even change your parenting style!
The quite, reflective manner in which Ms. Pantley portrays each parenting tip, and the possible solutions thereto, enables a parent to better understand the behavior of their child and the steps needed in order to modify their actions or words, so the child understands too.
I can honestly say that PERFECT PARENTING will be well read in my house. Every time I feel flustered or lacking in parenting skills, I return to this informative book. After a little research throughout its pages, I am armed and ready for battle!! My four year old twin boys are even reciting some of the lessons learned from this easy to read and understand book.
A must read for any parent!! When's the next book coming out, Elizabeth???
The easy to use dictionary style makes this a great resouce when you have to have an idea NOW. My husband, the reluctant reader, has even looked up some of our current parenting issues; It's that easy to use! And, of course, Elizabeth Pantley's ideas on every issue from Accident Prone to Yelling inspires us to be the best parents we can.
Short of the Bible, PERFECT PARENTING and Elizabeth Pantley's other book, KID COOPERATION, will be the best read books in our home.
