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If parenting were easy, it wouldn't begin with something called labor. This book offers Dr. Bruett's insights, philosophies and suggestions to make the parenting process easier and more enjoyable. His common sense, tough love (with an emphasis on love), parent-in-charge approach is written in a conversational, easy-to-read style. He provides many delightful, and informative stories and narratives to entertain the reader while further explaining and reinforcing his parenting philosophies. Parents will not feel judged or pressured by Dr. Bruett's straight forward style. He has and immediate connection with the reader that leads the reader to an "ah ha" experience about effective parenting.

In this charming, comprehensive parenting guide both general philosophical topics and specific parenting issues are addressed. General topics such as, "Common Sense Parenting", Unconditional Love", and "Who's in Charge?", are insightful, witty and written in an easy to understand manner. Dr. Bruett explains his concept of parents being "Benevolent Dictators". His philosophy of children having an opportunity to voice their feelings and opinions, but not having a vote in the family, is presented as a cornerstone of parents being in control. Two critical components of parenting, "Consistency" and "Unconditional Love", are presented in an clear and direct language. There is a two chapter discussion about how children learn the differences between punishments and consequences. Parents learn how to properly react to their childrens' behavior with positive or negative consequences. There are chapters that include "Family Values", "Teaching Responsibility", and "Developing a Work Ethic" which are informative and extremely important in today's society.

Specific child rearing issues are also presented throughout this manual such as "Potty Training", "New Baby/Sibling Rivalry" and "Making Choices For Children". Everyday parenting concerns about proper etiquette, dealing with money and introducing pets into the family are discussed in an informative and uncomplicated way. These specific topics provide clear and precise directions and ideas for parents that are practical and useful on an everyday basis. "Parenting Through Divorce" and "Stepparenting" are also addressed in an insightful and compassionate manner.

While children might not come with manuals, this book is a refreshing, straight forward resource that covers many areas of parenting. It is a delightful and knowledgeable approach with a dialogue that paces well and flows easily. It is an invaluable resource for new parents and can be used time and time again throughout a child's life.