YOUR KID'S A BRAT AND IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT

Sensible suggestions on how to raise your children so they don't become screaming brats who offend everyone around them.

Former teacher and parenting advice columnist Glickman (Sacred Parenting: Jewish Wisdom for Your Family’s First Years, 2009, etc.) writes that even though a toddler may appear to want that sugary treat at the checkout line or a tween really wants to wear a skimpy skirt to school, "what they really want are limits and boundaries and consistent expectations. What they want are opportunities to learn discipline, to demonstrate responsibility, to develop self-esteem, to earn self-respect and the respect of those around them." Beginning with toddlers and advancing through the tween years, Glickman gives levelheaded advice mixed with a healthy dose of humor to any parent who has cringed at their child's behavior: screaming in a store, running wildly through a restaurant, or throwing a temper tantrum at being denied anything. The author covers children interacting with pets, children who bite, picky eaters, clinging behavior, rudeness, and a host of other topics common to toddlers and preschoolers. By stopping bratty behavior at the earliest ages, parents are less likely to have issues later, but if spoiled and demanding performances are already part of the daily norm, Glickman reassures parents that there is still time to correct these matters. As children grow, the concerns shift; your tween may claim he or she is bored, won't turn off any number of electronic devices, or have begun to use inappropriate language. Glickman offers advice for these topics and numerous others. She also provides some handy checklists—e.g., “Helpful Phrases to Use with Your Kid” and “Jobs for Toddlers”—for easy access to quick information that should help parents get through almost any situation.

Entertaining common-sense advice for parents to ensure that their children don't run amok.