Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World

Title: RAISING RESPECTFUL CHILDREN IN A DISRESPECTFUL WORLD

Author: Jill Rigby

Publisher: Howard: Simon & Schuster

August 2013

ISBN: 978-14767-1878-1

Genre: Parenting

This inspirational parenting guide offers proactive and positive steps to raising respectful, engaged, and grateful children.

In an effort to raise children with a healthy view of themselves, parents often focus on self-esteem rather than self-respect. And author Jill Rigby says there’s a big difference. It’s the difference between self-centered and others-centered children, the difference between performance-driven and purpose-focused teenagers.

Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World examines three different styles of parenting—parent-centered, child-centered, and character-centered. Parent-centered parents are more concerned with their own agenda than their child’s best interest. Child-centered parents are more concerned with their child’s approval than their child’s well-being. Character-centered parents are more concerned with their child’s character than their child’s comfort. Drawing a distinction between performance and purpose, this book maintains that rather than focusing on what you want your child to do, you ask what you want your child to become. Finally, Rigby calls for parents to discipline (teach) their children rather than punish them.

With wisdom and insight, Jill Rigby shares age-appropriate ways to set boundaries with children without building walls of separation. Whether you’re parenting tots or teens, Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World offers valuable advice for cultivating a house of respect.

RAISING RESPECTFUL CHILDREN IN A DISRESPECTFUL WORLD is a book I wish I’d read when my adult son was a newborn. It highlights everything I did wrong with him—and everything I wish I would’ve done differently. I wish I could say it all turned out well—but we still battle, especially when he’s “it’s all about me” and angry when other people get recognition for their achievements and he doesn’t. I read through the book hoping for some guidance with him, but other than leaving my sarcasm behind and trying to encourage him to be responsible, there doesn’t seem much I can do.

However, I do have some children in the tweener age, and I need to start working now in certain areas to make sure they are respectful when they grow up. Such as asking before taking their brother’s cell phone or iPod; telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth; and not blaming others for your mistakes. All common sense, right? But do we enforce it?

If you are a parent to a newborn – definitely pick up this book. If you have a strong-willed toddler who is screaming “no” at you, pick up this book. If you have kids in any other age group – up until the upper teens, you have hope. Pick up this book! I really wish I’d had read it years ago. Resources are included, reading guides, discussion questions, things to do with and for your child and more. Invaluable.  $15.99. 305 pages.