Have a New Kid by Friday - Dr Kevin Leman [29]
Robin, Ontario
I’m launching my action plan today. I can’t wait for Fun Day. I’ve already decided that I’m taking myself—no kids—out for ice cream when it’s all over. Your advice is priceless and exactly what I needed. I felt a connection and an understanding that I haven’t felt with any other parenting expert. Your humor and personal testimonies were reassuring to an average guy like me.
Mark, Ohio
My life has completely changed. My relationships with my kids have changed. And, okay, I admit my relationship with my husband has changed since I’m no longer stressed out due to the kids. Thank you so much! My husband says thank you too.
Melissa, Illinois
For the first time in 2 years, since Elizabeth turned 13, I have hope and an action plan.
Kara, New York
We have 3 children—4, 3, and 2. We couldn’t see spending our lives the way things were going. Nobody would babysit for us, and people would stare at us in public (with good reason). Simply put, our children are monsters. Your principles have changed everything about our lives. I hope every parent on the planet hears you speak or reads your books. They need this approach. We certainly did.
The Nesbits, Montana
Ask Dr. Leman
A to Z Game Plans That Really Work
Straightforward advice and gutsy plans of action on over 100 of the hottest parenting topics.
Shh! It’s a Secret!
A no-nonsense approach to having a great kid and being a great parent. Just look up the topic, but don’t tell your child what you’re up to. (Hint: There’s a quick index at the back.)
If we had ten minutes together in person where no one else could overhear us, what’s the one thing you’d most want to know about parenting? Why?
Over nearly four decades, it has been my joy to help families succeed. I want to see your family succeed too. So in this section, allow me to be your personal psychologist. I’ll just perch here on the arm of your chair while you look up the topics you’re currently facing for some timely and time-tested advice.
Then think about your own situation. Ask yourself:
1. What is the purposive nature of the behavior?
2. How do I, as the parent, feel in this situation?
3. Is this a mountain or a molehill?
The answers to these questions will help you formulate an action plan for your own family. If the issue is a molehill, a can of Raid might help. If it’s a mountain, the ante is upped significantly. You must handle the situation well, because it will affect your family dynamics, your well-being, and your child’s well-being.
So pick the topic that’s hottest in your family right now. The topics are organized A to Z so you can find them easily, or you can check the index at the back of the book. If you want a Parenting 101 crash course, just read straight through the section. I’ve included over 100 of the topics that parents ask about most.
For additional help on specific topics, consult the resource list on pp. 299–300. You’ll also find a lot of practical help at www .lemanbooksandvideos.com. Have a specific parenting question? Go to iQuestions.com, where I answer all sorts of parenting and marriage questions (and you even get to see my mug shot).
Above all, remember the secret: do not let your child in on what you’re up to. What you’re doing must remain your secret until Fun Day. There are no warnings in this system—and no wimps allowed either. Backing down once you launch your action plan will only get you pushed back into the corner you started in.
You can be a great parent. And you can have a great kid. So go ahead—plunge right in. Fun Day awaits.
Allowances
“I give Matt, our 14-year-old, an allowance every week. But he’s always coming back to me the day after he receives the money, asking for more money for something he’s just got to have. It’s driving me crazy.”
“Trey is only 3, but he seems interested in money. The other day