Overview

The program outlined in this book is packed with practical steps to turn things around when a strong-willed or defiant child is pushing boundaries too far. Hundreds of parents of 3 to 10-year-olds have witnessed dramatic improvements in a few weeks time. Children with too much power not only drive their parents crazy but are at risk for a host of other problems. They often get in trouble in school, have difficulty with peers, and are deprived of fundamental lessons needed to survive in a world that will not always revolve around them. Who's the Boss? provides the solution. This approach is unique, integrating effective tools and techniques from over thirty-five years of study, teaching and clinical practice by the co-authors, both practicing psychotherapists and workshop leaders. With this model, parents learn how to turn their child's willfulness into an asset instead of a liability. Kids become motivated to behave because they want to, not because of what the parents want. Kids become happier, more loving, have a higher self-esteem and feel less guilty and anxious. Best of all, family members can have more fun together and parents can resign, most of the time, from the role of "bad cop." The goal is simple-namely, to help kids feel good about themselves and have love and respect for others. The book also teaches family members-adults and kids alike-how to calm themselves when frustrated, thereby reducing negative emotions and developing greater emotional self-regulation. Steps are provided to ease the transition to the new set of rules, incentives and consequences. And the best part-it adds a dash of humor while solving a serious problem.