What is Your Favourite Parenting Book?

There has been a lot of bruhaha lately over a certain parenting book declaring that a certain type of mother is superior. I'm not even going to name the book because I have come to realize that the specific excerpt from said book is being printed and put out there for a reason - that is simply to create a whole lotta controversy and thus sell more books. Mission accomplished I'd say. Nothing like making everyone else feel inferior in the name of the almighty dollar. But, I digress.

The whole sh*t storm over this particular book though has gotten me to reflect on all the parenting books I have read in the last 8 years. And oh.my.goodness there have been A LOT. I mean, A LOT.

I strive in my efforts to be and stay connected with my children. I practice an attachment style of parenting because I believe in it. I endeavor to discipline in the gentlest but firmest ways possible (even though some days I fail quite miserably because it doesn't come naturally to me). I care deeply about my childrens self esteem and I'm convinced that raising my children with a strong character, good morals and values combined with a powerful dose of self confidence, is creating human beings who can accomplish anything they put their mind to when they go out into the world.

There have been a lot of books that have helped me on this journey, but a few in particular. One of them specifically is "Connection Parenting: Parenting Through Connection instead of Coercion, Through Love Instead of Fear" by Pam Leo. This book is short, easy to read and as far as I am concerned should be given out to every new parent within the first week that they become one.

When I am feeling lost and having one of those rare days where I am trying to remember why I even freakin' wanted to be a mother to begin with (and we all have them), this book brings me back to my heart. This book reminds me to get over myself and to just remember that it is all about the love and connection with my children. It doesn't mean that I am permissive (not all). It just reminds me that these little people are human beings as well, who deserve to be shown around this big world that is new and fun and fascinating to them, in the most loving and respectful way possible. Wouldn't you agree?

Now, when you are in the midst of taming a massive tantrum and constantly battling siblings who can't seem to get along (as my week has been going so far :Þ) and you're wondering how in the heck you are going to show them this 'big world that is new and fun and fascinating in the most loving and respectful way possible' (feel free to add the sarcasm if you need to there, I get it! ;o) ), then you need to read another favourite of mine by Judy Arnall. Judy wrote the book "Discipline Without Distress: 135 tools for raising caring, responsible children without time-out, spanking, punishment or bribery"

If there was ever a fantastic book on gentle discipline that actually lays it out and gives you the best tips and tricks on how to handle almost every situation, it is this book. She reminds us that the purpose of discipline is to teach, not hurt. I've met her and she truly practices what she preaches. I am so excited to take one of her parenting classes and go to a few of her seminars this year, she is truly a wonderful role model.
I have at least 20 other great parenting books in my library, but I will stick with those two for now because they are my all time favourites. Runners up would be Alfie Kohn's "Uncondtional Parenting" and Barbara Coloroso's "Kids Are Worth It!"

I could write all night about so many others but in keeping with the spirit of staying connected with our kids, I have to run. I have my sweet little 6 year old boy waiting ever so patiently to read with me. ♥

Tell me, what are your favourite parenting books? Which ones help you keep your sanity?


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With love and light ♥