Books Recommendations

I read a lot. Lately I have read some parenting/education/child development/interesting books.

Nurture Shock by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman
This book examines a variety of topics such as self-control, gifted-education, early childhood curriculum, sleep, language development, praise, and lying through careful evaluation of current practices and research. For example, it talks about if saying things like 'good job' or 'you're really smart' is actually helping your child or not. I think every parent and educator should read this book. Well-written and easy to read.

Cinderella Ate My Daughter by Peggy Orenstein
This book discusses the intense girly-girl culture in the US including the evolution of it (e.g. Disney Princesses, American Girls, Bratz) and a mother's struggle to find the line in the sand for her daughter. It reads like a dialogue with yourself as you stand in the pink section of the toy store as you debate picking up that barbie doll for that young girl in your life. It is very interesting for both women and men to read and helps start evaluating your own thoughts and policies of parenting.

Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys by James Stephen and David Thomas
I think I have mentioned this book before but I have to recommend it again. Anyone who interacts with male humans should read this book, especially those who are raising little men. This book helps expose the secrets of how boys work and what we can do to help them develop. It also helps you gain some perspective as a parent or teacher and prevent boys' actions from driving you crazy. Read This Book!