Raising Your Spirited Child, Third Edition: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, and Energetic (Spirited Series)

Loving this book. Still reading it but it's very positive. It has practical advise, and makes me feel there is hope. One of the most useful thing so far is to think of your mood either in the green zone (for calm and happy), yellow zone or red zone (for having lost it). My six year old got it as soon as I explained and when jubilated said 'mummy, I am in the star zone now!' He continues to use the terms to describe where he is at. Which is great for discussing problems and annoyances and looking for ways to get back to the green zone. I Highly recommend this book and I haven't even finished it yet!

I'm not into guides, but I must say that this one was worth reading. It opened my eyes to some reasons for difficulties and that better understanding is often enough to keep your cool and steer the situation away from tantrum. It actually taught me a few things about myself and my own reactions. I like that it focuses on fostering a good relationship with the child, but is also realistic and very practical in terms of how to handle everyday challenges of raising a determined, intensive child.

I read this when my son was 3 he is now 6 and has since been diagnosed with autism (aspergers). It really helped me to tune into him and his needs and improved my relationship with him as I became less anxious and stopped expecting him to be "normal." I would recommend this book to anyone who feels guilty to be exhausted at times by their child and who worries that they are doing something wrong. It is the best parenting book I have read and I have read a lot!

So far so good. An interesting read. Haven't got far enough to make further comment

I really enjoyed reading this book. As the mother of a 'spirited' 3 year old boy I thought I was doing something wrong (and I was to a certain extent). The book has taught me the following things: - To accept my son for who is he and focus more on his positive traits. - Not to take it personally when he does throw a tantrum or misbehaves. - Positive reinforcement really works - we have a weekly sticker reward chart which he makes with his dad and he now knows the things we expects if he wants to get his reward at the end. - He is an introvert and needs time by himself to wind down, relax or even to play. - I've given him more choice and independence which has lead to a happier child. - I try to stay calm and explain what is expected of him. - I communicate more with him - listening to him and having conversations about the things that interest him (animals, films, books, family). - Labeling feelings with him and talking about them so and what he can do if he gets mad (deep breaths), sad (get a hug) etc. - Paying attention to when he is tired or hungry. Hunger really affects his moods. He still has his moments but life is much calmer!

Wow! Could not be happier I found this book! And it’s not because it has ‘fixed’ anything in my child or me or life for that matter BUT it put my mind at ease and peace while looking after my toddler, who in fact is inquisitive, lively and persistent character! It helped me realise that it is OK for my son to be intense as much as it is for me to ‘intensely’ fear if I will manage to meet his needs. Yes it is almost like that tap on the shoulder that allows you to be honest with yourself and child which makes parenthood more ‘bearable’. I was scared so to say -for a moment- that there is something wrong I have done or actually HAVEN’T done therefore my son’s emotions are so so sooo explicit. I was fearful going to toddlers group or when I had to pick him up from nursery worrying what he’ll do or say this time.. I bet there’s many of other parents out there thinking that their child’s temperament is something they have ‘caused’ or probably not managed well.. and you are wrong! Read that book if you’re seeking reassurance or help with managing your patience and helping your gifted (yep! You’ll find out why!) child to thrive in best possible and tailored to him/her/them way! 👍

This has been very useful to help us with our 'spirited' 7 year old. We no longer use the term 'challenging' and their behaviour is more manageable thanks to some of the strategies suggested here.

Very very helpful. I’ve bought copies for several of my friends with ‘stubborn’ children

This book is phenomenal. This book helped me better understand my children, myself and why things sometimes go off the rails. The reference manual for the years ahead. The initial chapters go into personality traits and how these can be used to work with your child's tendencies rather than against them. When your child simply with not stop, maybe it is because they are extremely persistent. Or if a walk outside means inspecting every leaf and crack then your child is showing another trait. This sets up the rest of the book well to help you tune your approach based on the tendencies of your child. The suggested strategies appeal to my nerdy analytical side. Have a problem with sudden changes or certain times of the day? Take a step back and look for clues as to why that is happening. Experiment to see if you can make improvements by changing how you start or tweak other factors like sleep, timing or energy levels. There is a great balance between abstract and concrete topics. While the earlier parts of the book lay a psychological foundation, the later parts are filled with tools and specifics to help you throughout your days. My favourites were around working with your children to get to a common goal. A "yes and" to break away from a screaming no. Thank you for this fantastic book. Although well suited for parents of children who like to push the limits, likely helpful to any parent who wants a few more tools or to understand their child's tendencies. I would recommend this book and look forward to reading it again.

Ich habe mir das Buch gekauft, nachdem ich in einem Forum für "aktive Kinder" davon gelesen hatte. Und ich gebe zu, meine Erwartungen wurden nicht enttäuscht. Gerade wenn man ein sehr aktives Kind zu Hause hat, stößt man schnell mal an seine Grenzen. Deshalb empfand ich diesen Ratgeber als hilfreich, da er mit einer gewissen Portion Witz und Charme genau meine Situation beschreibt und Hilfestellungen für den Alltag gibt. Die Tipps sind teilweise denkbar simpel, aber nützlich und man braucht in gewissen Situationen wohl einfach einen Denkanstoß von außen, um angemessen reagieren zu können. Alles in allem fühle ich mich als Mutter von der Autorin verstanden und unterhalten, ohne dass der Zeigefinger erhoben wird. Deshalb von mir 5 Sterne! Einziger Wermutstropfen: Das Buch ist bislang nicht in Deutsch erhältlich. Für alle, die des Englischen jedoch mächtig sind, kann es eine gute Hilfe und Aufmunterung im Alltag sein!

As a mother of 2 spirited girls, I highly recommend this book. The author gives solutions and never makes the parent feel guilty or unable to handle her child. Nothing to do with the so in fashion "positive education", that wants parents stop educating kids and let everything go. Respect and discipline remain fundamental, and the relation with the child improves. "Progress, not perfection!"

I found some answers and confidence to deal with my situation. So the book is helpful

Helpful and gives a lot of insides and guidance. I have enjoyed reading and I feel it has helped me.