Book Review: Have a New Kid by Friday by: Dr. Kevin Leman
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I was walking through the library isles, picking up our books for homeschool this week. Probably grumbling under my breath about my pre-teen and I butting head, yet again. Then I saw this book, Have a New Kid by Friday, by Dr. Kevin Leman, and I giggled when I picked it up. It was a quick read for me, as some of my own parenting methods were already in this wonderful book.
I should say, before I begin, that I really don’t want, or need a “new” kid in 5 days. I have what I consider to be outstandingly excellent, and uber-smart kids. I am lucky, for sure. My eldest darling’s attitude has been less than exciting these past few weeks, and my methods- while working, were wearing me out. Reading this book reminded me that I wasn’t being mean (often accused of being too harsh by other parents), I was preparing them for the world, and real life. Not the life that bends and kneels when you need a minute. A life that you have to constantly work at to keep going. After reading, I was right back on track, and they all followed jumping back on board soon after. Thank the LAWD!
Dr. Leman addresses the three behavioral traits most often affected (and the ones that drives us parents the most crazy..) of attitude, behavior, and character. He refers to them as the “ABCs.” He provides a number of quotes from his book in the margins, which I loved. His humor and wit make the reading fast, and all the steps are completely do-able, even by the parents who feel it would be too hard. IT’S NOT.
Some of my favorite quotes from the book!!
“Being happy all the time isn’t real life, and you’re not being fair to your child if you’re providing a continual Disneyland experience.”
“Character is not only everything, it’s the only thing in the long run. It is the foundation for your attitude and behavior.”
“Never ever pay off whining with any kind of reward.”
“For every action there is a consequence, and the sooner children learn that, the better.”
A wonderful book! Pick it up at your local library, or on Amazon.com today!
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