Parenting Books Worth Reading

Cherisse Harris:  Does it ever seem like you and your kids are speaking a totally different language? Acclaimed experts Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish tell you what you can do when it comes to communicating with your kids, getting them to be receptive to you, and responding in appropriate ways. And sorry... but none of their advice include telling your child: "Do as I say, not as I do."

Vanessa M.:  Gary Chapman's blockbuster book, The Five Love Languages, revolutionized the way we thought about romantic relationships. Chapman adapts his wisdom for parents in his book, The Five Love Languages of Children. Discover your child's unique love language, establish a closer connection, and learn how to utilize that knowledge to parent your child in a more loving and effective way.

Vanessa M.:  If you've encountered the wise advice to create 3 jars for your children's pocket money (one to spend, one to save, one to give), this advice comes from Ron Lieber's highly received book. This bestseller focuses on teaching little ones financial lessons, but also incorporates methods parents can use to teach their young ones age-appropriate responsibility, gratitude, and generosity. In our material/consumeristic society, this book can be a breath of fresh air for parents who are looking for ways to protect their children from being spoiled.

Cherisse Harris:  Liane Kupferberg Carter makes you feel like a family member as she shares her heartfelt moments of what it's like to raise an autistic child; helping him find his way socially, academically, and emotionally in the world. She tackles tough issues like navigating medical care/diagnosis, dealing with disability legalities (like special needs trusts), and advocating for your child when it comes to the school system; and she does it all with a light heart and a bunch of humor. It's a very moving story that will have you laughing and crying.

Lisa R:  Bringing Up Bébé is the personal account of one American mom and writer learning to raise kids in France. Pamela Druckerman, like many new parents, is initially overwhelmed by her children and can't understand how her French counterparts seem so put-together. Through careful observation and personal interviews, she picks up more than a few tips about diet, discipline and self care that help her take back control. The book is a quick read and includes a number of personal anecdotes that keep it entertaining.

Kelly R.:  I hadn't read a parenting book in the years since my first child was a baby, but this one spoke to me. KJ Dell'Antonia knows that maximizing the joy in parenting is about more than an attitude change. It's about implementing smart strategies to improve the problem areas in family life (screen time, homework, mornings) and leave more room for happiness. This book is filled with practical advice based on Dell'Antonia's own experience and research, delivered in a way that is likable, empowering, and entirely judgment-free. I'm going to read it again (once my husband finishes it).

Cherisse Harris:  This book helps parents better understand their child by learning more about their cognitive and moral development. Neuropsychiatrist Daniel J. Siegel and parenting expert Tina Payne Bryson discuss the development of a child's brain and how it affects his/her moods and actions. They also provide strategies that equip parents with helpful techniques to deal with their child's challenging behavior. For more techniques and practice scenarios, parents can also purchase the Whole-Brain Child workbook.

Cherisse Harris:  This is the perfect handbook for an expectant dad! Author Armin Brott provides the latest research and insight regarding topics like child development, baby milestones, baby massage, vaccinations, healthcare, and other what-to-expects. It also discusses special concerns for dads from every walk of life: young dads, dads of kids with special needs, older dads, and dads in same-sex couples -- to name a few. This is an indispensable addition to every father's parenting book collection.

Cherisse Harris:  If you're a parent who's tried rewards and punishment as a way to motivate your child to behave or cooperate, and it hasn't worked... take a look at this book. Educator Alfie Kohn says that all children first need to know that they are loved unconditionally. He argues that once parents stop trying to control the child, and instead focus on what the child needs, a stronger bond will be forged between parent and child. The child that feels more connected is the child that will be receptive to parent guidance and that will help them grow into healthy adults.

Cherisse Harris:  Does your child have a lot of energy? Does his teacher say he's hyper or very busy throughout the school day? Are you frustrated trying to prevent meltdowns and tantrums? Parenting expert Mary Sheedy Kurcinka provides emotional support and techniques for parents struggling to understand their child's behavior. She also tells parents how they can manage their own temper while communicating with their children and sets up a plan and quick tips for how parents can develop a positive, healthy environment where their child can feel loved, understood, and good about themselves.

Cherisse Harris:  If you're concerned that your child is negatively influenced by social media, excessive use of video games, bad peers etc., it may be time for a parent intervention. Family consultant Kim John Payne offers expert insight and tried-and-tested techniques for the betterment of your family. He teaches parents how to eliminate unnecessary distractions from their home so that the children have the calm mentality to develop their individuality. His detailed plan shows you how to reach your child in the most efficient way -- by making sure there is less negative interference from the outside world.

Cherisse Harris:  This is a must-have for any parent hoping to learn better disciplining strategies that will not only get their child to behave, but want to be a better person. If you're looking to motivate your child to listen to and respect you without the excessive use of rewards and timeouts, read this book. Rebecca Eanes offers insightful advice on the best ways to connect with your kids at each developmental stage.

Cherisse Harris:  If you've ever had a serious concern about your child's behavior or wondered if he might need to be evaluated for a learning disability, this book is an excellent reference. Dr. Bonny Forrest conducts a detailed discussion about kids experiencing mental, neurological, and developmental issues. With over 20 years of experience advocating for children and their parents, Dr. Forrest is sensitive to the stressors parents face when trying to diagnose and cope with their child's disability. She offers enlightening answers and resources for families.

Cherisse Harris:  Everyone knows we're living in the digital age and as a parent it can seem impossible to navigate your child's experience with the internet. Dr. Devorah Heitner offers great advice for the best ways to put the parental controls on your child's internet access.

Cherisse Harris:  Executive-functioning coach and mindfulness teacher, Michelle Gale, speaks from experience as she advises her readers to slow down and take in the wonderful moments of parenting. It's easy to get overwhelmed with the errands, diaper runs, and timeouts and you can miss out on the opportunities to enjoy your kids and see how they're growing up -- mentally and emotionally. Through meditation and awareness, Michelle says parents can become more centered and better able to attend to their children and family challenges in a healthy, unstressed way.