Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Not so much super powers but super help, 21 Nov 2008
This is a superb book which offers an insight into situations which many people currently feel helpless to deal with when faced with. It follows closely with the current change of thinking in secondary education where they are trying to explain to children emotions probably ten years too late. Possibly modern teachers would read this book and nod along recognising scenarios. As a parent I found it very helpful to be able to re-think talking to my child. It has helped me to talk with them as opposed to at them. At this early stage I can not state that there are definite changes but I hope they will be helpful in our relationship in the future. My only real criticism of the book is in the language used. I recognise much of the terminology from my job but I am unsure whether most people would. The chapter summaries are excellent but perhaps a future edition could be edited with a wider audience in mind?

Efficient habits for better parenting and a happier childhood, 21 Nov 2008
It must have been sheer luck that "Superpowers for Parents" ended up on my recommended list. Of all the books on psychology and parenting, this has to be considered a standout piece. I teach self defence to children and through my studies and coaching experience I have found that building the right attitude is by far the most efficient way for children to learn. Dr. Briers' excellent new book is completely in line with my approach to teaching, which is refreshing as the self defence world - much like the parenting/psychology world - is still very much in reactive mode. This is in the face of the great results being found in business leadership and sport. In order for humans to better respond, interact and to get the results that make them happy they have to learn to charge of their feelings and to understand others.

We are in a time of rising youth violence and greater depression in our young. Programmes like "Super Nanny", "Brat Camp" and the like have become prime time viewing, feeding the demand provided by Generation X parents. Dr. Briers, although is never dismissive of such methods as the "naughty step", argues that too much emphasis is being placed on handling the symptoms of bad behaviour. His book deals with the root of the problem, developing skills in both parents and children that will help prevent the problems from developing later on. It removes the "guilty parent" attitude that resulted from an extreme interpretation of the famous methods of Dr. Spock combined with the liberalism of the 1960s and the Baby Boomer generation of parents. Dr. Briers shifts parenting towards the development of empathy the base for good relationships and interdependency.

With this in mind "Superpowers for Parents" is comparable with Dr. Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" in that the author has a clear understanding of what is meant by the now buzzwords "proactive" and "empowerment". Like Covey, Dr. Briers understands the partiality of the "carrot and stick" approach, the age old punishment and reward system. Dr. Briers' methods are all about teaching children to take control of their feelings, emotions and eventually their lives. The activities suggested are far from revolutionary rather they are heavy nods towards common sense. However, this is long overdue. In my own book on children's self defence I make a strong emphasis on helping children develop independent attitudes. This is vital to prevent children from becoming physically vulnerable. "Superpowers for Children" demonstrates that developing this type of attitude also prevents children from becoming psychologically vulnerable.

In conclusion this book provides a much needed guide on preventing and understanding bad behaviour in children. However, more than this, it is a very positive book for today's parents bringing the true meaning of discipline back to parenting. Discipline, as Dr. Briers explains, has too long been associated with punishment and taking orders. It is one of the four tenets I teach in my children's classes and my book, and I completely agree that discipline is more about effective mentoring and developing self-discipline than anything else. After all one can only really benefits from discipline if one is willing receive it.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and prospective parents.



NLP-style parenting, 21 Nov 2008
One way to look at this book is as an antidote to the likes of Super-Nanny. However, that's only because the focus is a little different.
Where some other books seem to take the view that children are beings to be moulded into model examples of perfect behaviour, this instead attempts as much to get you to understand their emotional situation as to help deal with their behaviour.
It comes across as somewhat unusual, because it stresses the individual personality of a child and their willingness and capability to understand.
Many of the emotional techniques for guiding from a darker emotional state to a calmer or happier one are solidly based in the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques which have been popular for many years now in personal psychology books. I haven't seen so much attempting to push those techniques specifically for use with children.
I actually like a book to say that you're not a failure if your child isn't perfectly behaved ALL of the time, and explaining that if a child is well behaved at school then unruly at home, that there are other explanations for this separation of behaviour than just the quality of parenting.

Although the books are really aimed at parents of children a little older than mine (who are all under 4), some of the techniques are useful - illustrating common mistakes which may make a child distressed and potentially even worse behaved, and how to better look at their perspective to better understand the situation. While I won't be stopping using the naughty chair, it has provided an illuminating new view on how to approach bad behaviour or reluctance to cooperate.

If your child is at school and suffering from exam stress, bullying, difficulties settling into a new school, etc, then the discussions in here may well be of particular use, as it focusses on developing more positive, pro-active psychological approaches to life.

Not Just For Kids!, 20 Nov 2008
I ordered this book because I am conscious that I will one day in the nearish future have children and I am scared that I will be a bad mother. I watch all these programmes on tv about Super Nanny etc and I wanted to see what skills I needed to develop before I put anymore thought into having my own kids.
I began reading this and applied some of the psychology type skills to my boyfriend, just to see if I was capable, and strangely, my boyfriend began to open up about things that he would normally have not talked about! Men it seems also find it hard to describe feelings so I have embarked on attempting to teach my boyfriend the skills that this book outlines to teach your children, of course I haven't told him this :) So far I can report much success in helping him to communicate with me more and therefore diverting tantrums and understanding when a storm may be brewing that I would have previously not noticed. Plus when I do have my own children, I will be an expert at these techniques !
I fully recommend this book for any woman :)

I don't feel like a superhero!, 20 Nov 2008
This book does not give parents superpowers!

I read the blurb for the book and thought it sounded quite intriguing, being an occasional user of the naughty step/area technique, I was interested in reading how to avoid this altogether, as the book claims.

To start with the book has an introduction, that goes into an introduction, into an introduction... it was continuously stating "in this book I aim to do this", "the aim of the book is this", "in this book I hope to equip you with", etc, etc, to the point where I'm thinking well get on with giving me these "superpowers" then instead of just talking about what you hope to do.

Basically the book is telling you how to encourage your children to recognise and become familiar with how they are feeling and getting in touch with their own emotions, with a view to them then being able to avert trouble themselves when they feel they are getting angry, for example, so that they can take control of their own behaviour.

Whilst I think there are some good tips in the book for helping you to to talk to your child about their emotions, I do not think it is going to achieve the results it claims to make. In my opinion even a child that is aware of their own emotions, will still kick up a stink if they are upset or feel angry. Being self aware does not automatically induce self control, as this book suggests.

Also, I found it disturbing that the author states in his book that he and his colleagues actually took part in producing the shows like "supernanny" for the BBC and actually endorsed the use of "the naughty step"... surely if his book is as good as he makes out, he would have used his own advice in these shows, especially when it states it rules out the need of the "naughty step". Sounds a bit contradictory to me!

If you really want to learn to be a good parent, just love your children and do your best for them... maybe try a free parenting course if you are struggling... but don't waste your money on faddy books that don't really teach you anything but common sense really!!

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Not so much super powers but super help, 21 Nov 2008
This is a superb book which offers an insight into situations which many people currently feel helpless to deal with when faced with. It follows closely with the current change of thinking in secondary education where they are trying to explain to children emotions probably ten years too late. Possibly modern teachers would read this book and nod along recognising scenarios. As a parent I found it very helpful to be able to re-think talking to my child. It has helped me to talk with them as opposed to at them. At this early stage I can not state that there are definite changes but I hope they will be helpful in our relationship in the future. My only real criticism of the book is in the language used. I recognise much of the terminology from my job but I am unsure whether most people would. The chapter summaries are excellent but perhaps a future edition could be edited with a wider audience in mind?

Efficient habits for better parenting and a happier childhood, 21 Nov 2008
It must have been sheer luck that "Superpowers for Parents" ended up on my recommended list. Of all the books on psychology and parenting, this has to be considered a standout piece. I teach self defence to children and through my studies and coaching experience I have found that building the right attitude is by far the most efficient way for children to learn. Dr. Briers' excellent new book is completely in line with my approach to teaching, which is refreshing as the self defence world - much like the parenting/psychology world - is still very much in reactive mode. This is in the face of the great results being found in business leadership and sport. In order for humans to better respond, interact and to get the results that make them happy they have to learn to charge of their feelings and to understand others.

We are in a time of rising youth violence and greater depression in our young. Programmes like "Super Nanny", "Brat Camp" and the like have become prime time viewing, feeding the demand provided by Generation X parents. Dr. Briers, although is never dismissive of such methods as the "naughty step", argues that too much emphasis is being placed on handling the symptoms of bad behaviour. His book deals with the root of the problem, developing skills in both parents and children that will help prevent the problems from developing later on. It removes the "guilty parent" attitude that resulted from an extreme interpretation of the famous methods of Dr. Spock combined with the liberalism of the 1960s and the Baby Boomer generation of parents. Dr. Briers shifts parenting towards the development of empathy the base for good relationships and interdependency.

With this in mind "Superpowers for Parents" is comparable with Dr. Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" in that the author has a clear understanding of what is meant by the now buzzwords "proactive" and "empowerment". Like Covey, Dr. Briers understands the partiality of the "carrot and stick" approach, the age old punishment and reward system. Dr. Briers' methods are all about teaching children to take control of their feelings, emotions and eventually their lives. The activities suggested are far from revolutionary rather they are heavy nods towards common sense. However, this is long overdue. In my own book on children's self defence I make a strong emphasis on helping children develop independent attitudes. This is vital to prevent children from becoming physically vulnerable. "Superpowers for Children" demonstrates that developing this type of attitude also prevents children from becoming psychologically vulnerable.

In conclusion this book provides a much needed guide on preventing and understanding bad behaviour in children. However, more than this, it is a very positive book for today's parents bringing the true meaning of discipline back to parenting. Discipline, as Dr. Briers explains, has too long been associated with punishment and taking orders. It is one of the four tenets I teach in my children's classes and my book, and I completely agree that discipline is more about effective mentoring and developing self-discipline than anything else. After all one can only really benefits from discipline if one is willing receive it.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and prospective parents.



NLP-style parenting, 21 Nov 2008
One way to look at this book is as an antidote to the likes of Super-Nanny. However, that's only because the focus is a little different.
Where some other books seem to take the view that children are beings to be moulded into model examples of perfect behaviour, this instead attempts as much to get you to understand their emotional situation as to help deal with their behaviour.
It comes across as somewhat unusual, because it stresses the individual personality of a child and their willingness and capability to understand.
Many of the emotional techniques for guiding from a darker emotional state to a calmer or happier one are solidly based in the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques which have been popular for many years now in personal psychology books. I haven't seen so much attempting to push those techniques specifically for use with children.
I actually like a book to say that you're not a failure if your child isn't perfectly behaved ALL of the time, and explaining that if a child is well behaved at school then unruly at home, that there are other explanations for this separation of behaviour than just the quality of parenting.

Although the books are really aimed at parents of children a little older than mine (who are all under 4), some of the techniques are useful - illustrating common mistakes which may make a child distressed and potentially even worse behaved, and how to better look at their perspective to better understand the situation. While I won't be stopping using the naughty chair, it has provided an illuminating new view on how to approach bad behaviour or reluctance to cooperate.

If your child is at school and suffering from exam stress, bullying, difficulties settling into a new school, etc, then the discussions in here may well be of particular use, as it focusses on developing more positive, pro-active psychological approaches to life.

Not Just For Kids!, 20 Nov 2008
I ordered this book because I am conscious that I will one day in the nearish future have children and I am scared that I will be a bad mother. I watch all these programmes on tv about Super Nanny etc and I wanted to see what skills I needed to develop before I put anymore thought into having my own kids.
I began reading this and applied some of the psychology type skills to my boyfriend, just to see if I was capable, and strangely, my boyfriend began to open up about things that he would normally have not talked about! Men it seems also find it hard to describe feelings so I have embarked on attempting to teach my boyfriend the skills that this book outlines to teach your children, of course I haven't told him this :) So far I can report much success in helping him to communicate with me more and therefore diverting tantrums and understanding when a storm may be brewing that I would have previously not noticed. Plus when I do have my own children, I will be an expert at these techniques !
I fully recommend this book for any woman :)

I don't feel like a superhero!, 20 Nov 2008
This book does not give parents superpowers!

I read the blurb for the book and thought it sounded quite intriguing, being an occasional user of the naughty step/area technique, I was interested in reading how to avoid this altogether, as the book claims.

To start with the book has an introduction, that goes into an introduction, into an introduction... it was continuously stating "in this book I aim to do this", "the aim of the book is this", "in this book I hope to equip you with", etc, etc, to the point where I'm thinking well get on with giving me these "superpowers" then instead of just talking about what you hope to do.

Basically the book is telling you how to encourage your children to recognise and become familiar with how they are feeling and getting in touch with their own emotions, with a view to them then being able to avert trouble themselves when they feel they are getting angry, for example, so that they can take control of their own behaviour.

Whilst I think there are some good tips in the book for helping you to to talk to your child about their emotions, I do not think it is going to achieve the results it claims to make. In my opinion even a child that is aware of their own emotions, will still kick up a stink if they are upset or feel angry. Being self aware does not automatically induce self control, as this book suggests.

Also, I found it disturbing that the author states in his book that he and his colleagues actually took part in producing the shows like "supernanny" for the BBC and actually endorsed the use of "the naughty step"... surely if his book is as good as he makes out, he would have used his own advice in these shows, especially when it states it rules out the need of the "naughty step". Sounds a bit contradictory to me!

If you really want to learn to be a good parent, just love your children and do your best for them... maybe try a free parenting course if you are struggling... but don't waste your money on faddy books that don't really teach you anything but common sense really!!


Why only four stars?, 15 Oct 2008
I have had this book for a long time and along with most Childcare students consider it a must have, so was surprised to find it had only four stars on Amazon. I had to look! It transpires that the people who gave it less than five stars mostly had bought the wrong book for their purposes! Shouldn't a book be marked for it's quality for it's designated purpose? If that was the case this would always get 5 stars! The key to the books popularity, and suitability for it's purpose lies in it's full title; Child Development, An Illustrated Guide. It doesn't claim to be a book on development theory, or a book just for the early years, it is best used in alongside other more theoretical books. Why do some people not bother to read covers of books before buying them?

Excellant!, 23 Feb 2007
I was given this book, before starting my NC child care and early education, i then used if for both my level 2 and 3 SVQ modern aprrentice, and found this much easier to use than books supplied on the course's. I say this book is a must have for anyone studying or wishing to study childcare.

Fantastic help for NVQ3, 27 Jun 2006
This book is really really helpful, I am currently working my way through my NVQ3 and ordered this book in the hope that it would provide more information than what is given in the child care and development book when breaking down the ages and stages of child development, especially in the cognitive and language development sections, which are covered in less detail in the other child care book. The way it is set out is clear and concise and also provides activity ideas too.

excellant, 02 May 2006
This book is a must for anyone doing courses in childcare.
It is written in clear and is very easy to understand. I have found it invaluable whilst attending my cache diploma course. I have even used it to assess my own children. This book focuses on all child development upto the age of 16.

A Must have, 03 Apr 2006
I'm currently in my 2nd year of the CACHE Diploma and this book is an absolute necessity. It features sections on all ages upto 16 years and a section on child development theory.
It is ideal for observations and assignments and is a must have for any student/practitioner.

Hopefully, it will come in handy for when I start University in September.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Not so much super powers but super help, 21 Nov 2008
This is a superb book which offers an insight into situations which many people currently feel helpless to deal with when faced with. It follows closely with the current change of thinking in secondary education where they are trying to explain to children emotions probably ten years too late. Possibly modern teachers would read this book and nod along recognising scenarios. As a parent I found it very helpful to be able to re-think talking to my child. It has helped me to talk with them as opposed to at them. At this early stage I can not state that there are definite changes but I hope they will be helpful in our relationship in the future. My only real criticism of the book is in the language used. I recognise much of the terminology from my job but I am unsure whether most people would. The chapter summaries are excellent but perhaps a future edition could be edited with a wider audience in mind?

Efficient habits for better parenting and a happier childhood, 21 Nov 2008
It must have been sheer luck that "Superpowers for Parents" ended up on my recommended list. Of all the books on psychology and parenting, this has to be considered a standout piece. I teach self defence to children and through my studies and coaching experience I have found that building the right attitude is by far the most efficient way for children to learn. Dr. Briers' excellent new book is completely in line with my approach to teaching, which is refreshing as the self defence world - much like the parenting/psychology world - is still very much in reactive mode. This is in the face of the great results being found in business leadership and sport. In order for humans to better respond, interact and to get the results that make them happy they have to learn to charge of their feelings and to understand others.

We are in a time of rising youth violence and greater depression in our young. Programmes like "Super Nanny", "Brat Camp" and the like have become prime time viewing, feeding the demand provided by Generation X parents. Dr. Briers, although is never dismissive of such methods as the "naughty step", argues that too much emphasis is being placed on handling the symptoms of bad behaviour. His book deals with the root of the problem, developing skills in both parents and children that will help prevent the problems from developing later on. It removes the "guilty parent" attitude that resulted from an extreme interpretation of the famous methods of Dr. Spock combined with the liberalism of the 1960s and the Baby Boomer generation of parents. Dr. Briers shifts parenting towards the development of empathy the base for good relationships and interdependency.

With this in mind "Superpowers for Parents" is comparable with Dr. Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" in that the author has a clear understanding of what is meant by the now buzzwords "proactive" and "empowerment". Like Covey, Dr. Briers understands the partiality of the "carrot and stick" approach, the age old punishment and reward system. Dr. Briers' methods are all about teaching children to take control of their feelings, emotions and eventually their lives. The activities suggested are far from revolutionary rather they are heavy nods towards common sense. However, this is long overdue. In my own book on children's self defence I make a strong emphasis on helping children develop independent attitudes. This is vital to prevent children from becoming physically vulnerable. "Superpowers for Children" demonstrates that developing this type of attitude also prevents children from becoming psychologically vulnerable.

In conclusion this book provides a much needed guide on preventing and understanding bad behaviour in children. However, more than this, it is a very positive book for today's parents bringing the true meaning of discipline back to parenting. Discipline, as Dr. Briers explains, has too long been associated with punishment and taking orders. It is one of the four tenets I teach in my children's classes and my book, and I completely agree that discipline is more about effective mentoring and developing self-discipline than anything else. After all one can only really benefits from discipline if one is willing receive it.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and prospective parents.



NLP-style parenting, 21 Nov 2008
One way to look at this book is as an antidote to the likes of Super-Nanny. However, that's only because the focus is a little different.
Where some other books seem to take the view that children are beings to be moulded into model examples of perfect behaviour, this instead attempts as much to get you to understand their emotional situation as to help deal with their behaviour.
It comes across as somewhat unusual, because it stresses the individual personality of a child and their willingness and capability to understand.
Many of the emotional techniques for guiding from a darker emotional state to a calmer or happier one are solidly based in the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques which have been popular for many years now in personal psychology books. I haven't seen so much attempting to push those techniques specifically for use with children.
I actually like a book to say that you're not a failure if your child isn't perfectly behaved ALL of the time, and explaining that if a child is well behaved at school then unruly at home, that there are other explanations for this separation of behaviour than just the quality of parenting.

Although the books are really aimed at parents of children a little older than mine (who are all under 4), some of the techniques are useful - illustrating common mistakes which may make a child distressed and potentially even worse behaved, and how to better look at their perspective to better understand the situation. While I won't be stopping using the naughty chair, it has provided an illuminating new view on how to approach bad behaviour or reluctance to cooperate.

If your child is at school and suffering from exam stress, bullying, difficulties settling into a new school, etc, then the discussions in here may well be of particular use, as it focusses on developing more positive, pro-active psychological approaches to life.

Not Just For Kids!, 20 Nov 2008
I ordered this book because I am conscious that I will one day in the nearish future have children and I am scared that I will be a bad mother. I watch all these programmes on tv about Super Nanny etc and I wanted to see what skills I needed to develop before I put anymore thought into having my own kids.
I began reading this and applied some of the psychology type skills to my boyfriend, just to see if I was capable, and strangely, my boyfriend began to open up about things that he would normally have not talked about! Men it seems also find it hard to describe feelings so I have embarked on attempting to teach my boyfriend the skills that this book outlines to teach your children, of course I haven't told him this :) So far I can report much success in helping him to communicate with me more and therefore diverting tantrums and understanding when a storm may be brewing that I would have previously not noticed. Plus when I do have my own children, I will be an expert at these techniques !
I fully recommend this book for any woman :)

I don't feel like a superhero!, 20 Nov 2008
This book does not give parents superpowers!

I read the blurb for the book and thought it sounded quite intriguing, being an occasional user of the naughty step/area technique, I was interested in reading how to avoid this altogether, as the book claims.

To start with the book has an introduction, that goes into an introduction, into an introduction... it was continuously stating "in this book I aim to do this", "the aim of the book is this", "in this book I hope to equip you with", etc, etc, to the point where I'm thinking well get on with giving me these "superpowers" then instead of just talking about what you hope to do.

Basically the book is telling you how to encourage your children to recognise and become familiar with how they are feeling and getting in touch with their own emotions, with a view to them then being able to avert trouble themselves when they feel they are getting angry, for example, so that they can take control of their own behaviour.

Whilst I think there are some good tips in the book for helping you to to talk to your child about their emotions, I do not think it is going to achieve the results it claims to make. In my opinion even a child that is aware of their own emotions, will still kick up a stink if they are upset or feel angry. Being self aware does not automatically induce self control, as this book suggests.

Also, I found it disturbing that the author states in his book that he and his colleagues actually took part in producing the shows like "supernanny" for the BBC and actually endorsed the use of "the naughty step"... surely if his book is as good as he makes out, he would have used his own advice in these shows, especially when it states it rules out the need of the "naughty step". Sounds a bit contradictory to me!

If you really want to learn to be a good parent, just love your children and do your best for them... maybe try a free parenting course if you are struggling... but don't waste your money on faddy books that don't really teach you anything but common sense really!!


Why only four stars?, 15 Oct 2008
I have had this book for a long time and along with most Childcare students consider it a must have, so was surprised to find it had only four stars on Amazon. I had to look! It transpires that the people who gave it less than five stars mostly had bought the wrong book for their purposes! Shouldn't a book be marked for it's quality for it's designated purpose? If that was the case this would always get 5 stars! The key to the books popularity, and suitability for it's purpose lies in it's full title; Child Development, An Illustrated Guide. It doesn't claim to be a book on development theory, or a book just for the early years, it is best used in alongside other more theoretical books. Why do some people not bother to read covers of books before buying them?

Excellant!, 23 Feb 2007
I was given this book, before starting my NC child care and early education, i then used if for both my level 2 and 3 SVQ modern aprrentice, and found this much easier to use than books supplied on the course's. I say this book is a must have for anyone studying or wishing to study childcare.

Fantastic help for NVQ3, 27 Jun 2006
This book is really really helpful, I am currently working my way through my NVQ3 and ordered this book in the hope that it would provide more information than what is given in the child care and development book when breaking down the ages and stages of child development, especially in the cognitive and language development sections, which are covered in less detail in the other child care book. The way it is set out is clear and concise and also provides activity ideas too.

excellant, 02 May 2006
This book is a must for anyone doing courses in childcare.
It is written in clear and is very easy to understand. I have found it invaluable whilst attending my cache diploma course. I have even used it to assess my own children. This book focuses on all child development upto the age of 16.

A Must have, 03 Apr 2006
I'm currently in my 2nd year of the CACHE Diploma and this book is an absolute necessity. It features sections on all ages upto 16 years and a section on child development theory.
It is ideal for observations and assignments and is a must have for any student/practitioner.

Hopefully, it will come in handy for when I start University in September.

Common sense solutions, 12 Sep 2008
I bought the audio cd as it covers 1 2 3 Magic and More 1 2 3 magic.
I have enjoyed listening to the cd's albeit the music and intro are a bit irritating to my "Non- American" ears.
Thomas Phelan's presentation is witty and full of sense. I have only just started to use 1 2 3 magic with my 6 & 7 year old and life is already much calmer and the children have responded well to it. I think starting out with young children or those who are not familiar with time outs will have more of a challenge but the hard work is worth it.

This really works, 12 Aug 2008
I bought 5 other books on the same subject to help me with my 6 (going on 16 and so fully of attitude) year old daughter and my 8 year old son. Quite simply it works! The key is not to argue with the children which the book emphasises through out. Every time you think "thats all very well but what if...." the question is answered. As a single parent who's ex is very soft with the children I was at my wits end - what can I say IT WORKS!!!! I lent the book to a friend who rang me half way though her holiday in France to tell me that the first few days of her trip had been hell, then she started applying the techniques in the the book and hey presto it works!! Do I really need to say more?

easy to read and remember, is magic!, 04 Jul 2007
This book is really good have not used all the techniques yet as my daughter is only 3 years old but what i have used works a treat! i can stop and start different behaviours almost instantly! Saves alot of unwanted shouting at home and public places. Can be a little OTT on a few things but overall really good.

A sensible approach to structured discipline, 27 Jul 2005
I'm not a big self-help book fan, but I am an educationalist, and I have used Phelan's approach with my own children. Phelan outlines a straightforward technique designed to reduce the number of confontational and/or undesirable interactions that take place between children and parents. The book highlights some of the critical moments that occur during the course of normal family life, and suggests useful ways of dealing with such tensions using a simple and easily understood approach, that most children over the age of two should respond to well. We have found that if it is used consistently for a week or so, the children respond favourably. Like any family, there are lapses when we are tired or the children are ill, for example, but we have found it relatively easy to bring their behaviour back into line. Gradually the children internalise the rule system and seem to respect it, as it gives them a useful framework for getting on with their parents and enjoying family life. Perhaps one of the nicest aspects of Phelan's book is that it successfully manages to avoid preaching, and relates some of Pehlan's own mistakes and failings. This gives the book a sense of humanity and realism. Overall, I think this book represents good value for money and is a useful tool for busy parents.

every parent should have a copy, 11 Jul 2005
WOW! I am a single mum with two boys aged 6 and 8, the latter child is v challenging and this book has worked A DREAM. The best parenting book ever. Very simple. So far it has changed my life. You must buy it.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Not so much super powers but super help, 21 Nov 2008
This is a superb book which offers an insight into situations which many people currently feel helpless to deal with when faced with. It follows closely with the current change of thinking in secondary education where they are trying to explain to children emotions probably ten years too late. Possibly modern teachers would read this book and nod along recognising scenarios. As a parent I found it very helpful to be able to re-think talking to my child. It has helped me to talk with them as opposed to at them. At this early stage I can not state that there are definite changes but I hope they will be helpful in our relationship in the future. My only real criticism of the book is in the language used. I recognise much of the terminology from my job but I am unsure whether most people would. The chapter summaries are excellent but perhaps a future edition could be edited with a wider audience in mind?

Efficient habits for better parenting and a happier childhood, 21 Nov 2008
It must have been sheer luck that "Superpowers for Parents" ended up on my recommended list. Of all the books on psychology and parenting, this has to be considered a standout piece. I teach self defence to children and through my studies and coaching experience I have found that building the right attitude is by far the most efficient way for children to learn. Dr. Briers' excellent new book is completely in line with my approach to teaching, which is refreshing as the self defence world - much like the parenting/psychology world - is still very much in reactive mode. This is in the face of the great results being found in business leadership and sport. In order for humans to better respond, interact and to get the results that make them happy they have to learn to charge of their feelings and to understand others.

We are in a time of rising youth violence and greater depression in our young. Programmes like "Super Nanny", "Brat Camp" and the like have become prime time viewing, feeding the demand provided by Generation X parents. Dr. Briers, although is never dismissive of such methods as the "naughty step", argues that too much emphasis is being placed on handling the symptoms of bad behaviour. His book deals with the root of the problem, developing skills in both parents and children that will help prevent the problems from developing later on. It removes the "guilty parent" attitude that resulted from an extreme interpretation of the famous methods of Dr. Spock combined with the liberalism of the 1960s and the Baby Boomer generation of parents. Dr. Briers shifts parenting towards the development of empathy the base for good relationships and interdependency.

With this in mind "Superpowers for Parents" is comparable with Dr. Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" in that the author has a clear understanding of what is meant by the now buzzwords "proactive" and "empowerment". Like Covey, Dr. Briers understands the partiality of the "carrot and stick" approach, the age old punishment and reward system. Dr. Briers' methods are all about teaching children to take control of their feelings, emotions and eventually their lives. The activities suggested are far from revolutionary rather they are heavy nods towards common sense. However, this is long overdue. In my own book on children's self defence I make a strong emphasis on helping children develop independent attitudes. This is vital to prevent children from becoming physically vulnerable. "Superpowers for Children" demonstrates that developing this type of attitude also prevents children from becoming psychologically vulnerable.

In conclusion this book provides a much needed guide on preventing and understanding bad behaviour in children. However, more than this, it is a very positive book for today's parents bringing the true meaning of discipline back to parenting. Discipline, as Dr. Briers explains, has too long been associated with punishment and taking orders. It is one of the four tenets I teach in my children's classes and my book, and I completely agree that discipline is more about effective mentoring and developing self-discipline than anything else. After all one can only really benefits from discipline if one is willing receive it.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and prospective parents.



NLP-style parenting, 21 Nov 2008
One way to look at this book is as an antidote to the likes of Super-Nanny. However, that's only because the focus is a little different.
Where some other books seem to take the view that children are beings to be moulded into model examples of perfect behaviour, this instead attempts as much to get you to understand their emotional situation as to help deal with their behaviour.
It comes across as somewhat unusual, because it stresses the individual personality of a child and their willingness and capability to understand.
Many of the emotional techniques for guiding from a darker emotional state to a calmer or happier one are solidly based in the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques which have been popular for many years now in personal psychology books. I haven't seen so much attempting to push those techniques specifically for use with children.
I actually like a book to say that you're not a failure if your child isn't perfectly behaved ALL of the time, and explaining that if a child is well behaved at school then unruly at home, that there are other explanations for this separation of behaviour than just the quality of parenting.

Although the books are really aimed at parents of children a little older than mine (who are all under 4), some of the techniques are useful - illustrating common mistakes which may make a child distressed and potentially even worse behaved, and how to better look at their perspective to better understand the situation. While I won't be stopping using the naughty chair, it has provided an illuminating new view on how to approach bad behaviour or reluctance to cooperate.

If your child is at school and suffering from exam stress, bullying, difficulties settling into a new school, etc, then the discussions in here may well be of particular use, as it focusses on developing more positive, pro-active psychological approaches to life.

Not Just For Kids!, 20 Nov 2008
I ordered this book because I am conscious that I will one day in the nearish future have children and I am scared that I will be a bad mother. I watch all these programmes on tv about Super Nanny etc and I wanted to see what skills I needed to develop before I put anymore thought into having my own kids.
I began reading this and applied some of the psychology type skills to my boyfriend, just to see if I was capable, and strangely, my boyfriend began to open up about things that he would normally have not talked about! Men it seems also find it hard to describe feelings so I have embarked on attempting to teach my boyfriend the skills that this book outlines to teach your children, of course I haven't told him this :) So far I can report much success in helping him to communicate with me more and therefore diverting tantrums and understanding when a storm may be brewing that I would have previously not noticed. Plus when I do have my own children, I will be an expert at these techniques !
I fully recommend this book for any woman :)

I don't feel like a superhero!, 20 Nov 2008
This book does not give parents superpowers!

I read the blurb for the book and thought it sounded quite intriguing, being an occasional user of the naughty step/area technique, I was interested in reading how to avoid this altogether, as the book claims.

To start with the book has an introduction, that goes into an introduction, into an introduction... it was continuously stating "in this book I aim to do this", "the aim of the book is this", "in this book I hope to equip you with", etc, etc, to the point where I'm thinking well get on with giving me these "superpowers" then instead of just talking about what you hope to do.

Basically the book is telling you how to encourage your children to recognise and become familiar with how they are feeling and getting in touch with their own emotions, with a view to them then being able to avert trouble themselves when they feel they are getting angry, for example, so that they can take control of their own behaviour.

Whilst I think there are some good tips in the book for helping you to to talk to your child about their emotions, I do not think it is going to achieve the results it claims to make. In my opinion even a child that is aware of their own emotions, will still kick up a stink if they are upset or feel angry. Being self aware does not automatically induce self control, as this book suggests.

Also, I found it disturbing that the author states in his book that he and his colleagues actually took part in producing the shows like "supernanny" for the BBC and actually endorsed the use of "the naughty step"... surely if his book is as good as he makes out, he would have used his own advice in these shows, especially when it states it rules out the need of the "naughty step". Sounds a bit contradictory to me!

If you really want to learn to be a good parent, just love your children and do your best for them... maybe try a free parenting course if you are struggling... but don't waste your money on faddy books that don't really teach you anything but common sense really!!


Why only four stars?, 15 Oct 2008
I have had this book for a long time and along with most Childcare students consider it a must have, so was surprised to find it had only four stars on Amazon. I had to look! It transpires that the people who gave it less than five stars mostly had bought the wrong book for their purposes! Shouldn't a book be marked for it's quality for it's designated purpose? If that was the case this would always get 5 stars! The key to the books popularity, and suitability for it's purpose lies in it's full title; Child Development, An Illustrated Guide. It doesn't claim to be a book on development theory, or a book just for the early years, it is best used in alongside other more theoretical books. Why do some people not bother to read covers of books before buying them?

Excellant!, 23 Feb 2007
I was given this book, before starting my NC child care and early education, i then used if for both my level 2 and 3 SVQ modern aprrentice, and found this much easier to use than books supplied on the course's. I say this book is a must have for anyone studying or wishing to study childcare.

Fantastic help for NVQ3, 27 Jun 2006
This book is really really helpful, I am currently working my way through my NVQ3 and ordered this book in the hope that it would provide more information than what is given in the child care and development book when breaking down the ages and stages of child development, especially in the cognitive and language development sections, which are covered in less detail in the other child care book. The way it is set out is clear and concise and also provides activity ideas too.

excellant, 02 May 2006
This book is a must for anyone doing courses in childcare.
It is written in clear and is very easy to understand. I have found it invaluable whilst attending my cache diploma course. I have even used it to assess my own children. This book focuses on all child development upto the age of 16.

A Must have, 03 Apr 2006
I'm currently in my 2nd year of the CACHE Diploma and this book is an absolute necessity. It features sections on all ages upto 16 years and a section on child development theory.
It is ideal for observations and assignments and is a must have for any student/practitioner.

Hopefully, it will come in handy for when I start University in September.

Common sense solutions, 12 Sep 2008
I bought the audio cd as it covers 1 2 3 Magic and More 1 2 3 magic.
I have enjoyed listening to the cd's albeit the music and intro are a bit irritating to my "Non- American" ears.
Thomas Phelan's presentation is witty and full of sense. I have only just started to use 1 2 3 magic with my 6 & 7 year old and life is already much calmer and the children have responded well to it. I think starting out with young children or those who are not familiar with time outs will have more of a challenge but the hard work is worth it.

This really works, 12 Aug 2008
I bought 5 other books on the same subject to help me with my 6 (going on 16 and so fully of attitude) year old daughter and my 8 year old son. Quite simply it works! The key is not to argue with the children which the book emphasises through out. Every time you think "thats all very well but what if...." the question is answered. As a single parent who's ex is very soft with the children I was at my wits end - what can I say IT WORKS!!!! I lent the book to a friend who rang me half way though her holiday in France to tell me that the first few days of her trip had been hell, then she started applying the techniques in the the book and hey presto it works!! Do I really need to say more?

easy to read and remember, is magic!, 04 Jul 2007
This book is really good have not used all the techniques yet as my daughter is only 3 years old but what i have used works a treat! i can stop and start different behaviours almost instantly! Saves alot of unwanted shouting at home and public places. Can be a little OTT on a few things but overall really good.

A sensible approach to structured discipline, 27 Jul 2005
I'm not a big self-help book fan, but I am an educationalist, and I have used Phelan's approach with my own children. Phelan outlines a straightforward technique designed to reduce the number of confontational and/or undesirable interactions that take place between children and parents. The book highlights some of the critical moments that occur during the course of normal family life, and suggests useful ways of dealing with such tensions using a simple and easily understood approach, that most children over the age of two should respond to well. We have found that if it is used consistently for a week or so, the children respond favourably. Like any family, there are lapses when we are tired or the children are ill, for example, but we have found it relatively easy to bring their behaviour back into line. Gradually the children internalise the rule system and seem to respect it, as it gives them a useful framework for getting on with their parents and enjoying family life. Perhaps one of the nicest aspects of Phelan's book is that it successfully manages to avoid preaching, and relates some of Pehlan's own mistakes and failings. This gives the book a sense of humanity and realism. Overall, I think this book represents good value for money and is a useful tool for busy parents.

every parent should have a copy, 11 Jul 2005
WOW! I am a single mum with two boys aged 6 and 8, the latter child is v challenging and this book has worked A DREAM. The best parenting book ever. Very simple. So far it has changed my life. You must buy it.

What a helpful book!, 23 Jul 2006
If you are doing an NVQ3, this book is a must. It explains each topic clearly and is easy to follow. This has been one of the most useful textbooks I have ever purchased!

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Not so much super powers but super help, 21 Nov 2008
This is a superb book which offers an insight into situations which many people currently feel helpless to deal with when faced with. It follows closely with the current change of thinking in secondary education where they are trying to explain to children emotions probably ten years too late. Possibly modern teachers would read this book and nod along recognising scenarios. As a parent I found it very helpful to be able to re-think talking to my child. It has helped me to talk with them as opposed to at them. At this early stage I can not state that there are definite changes but I hope they will be helpful in our relationship in the future. My only real criticism of the book is in the language used. I recognise much of the terminology from my job but I am unsure whether most people would. The chapter summaries are excellent but perhaps a future edition could be edited with a wider audience in mind?

Efficient habits for better parenting and a happier childhood, 21 Nov 2008
It must have been sheer luck that "Superpowers for Parents" ended up on my recommended list. Of all the books on psychology and parenting, this has to be considered a standout piece. I teach self defence to children and through my studies and coaching experience I have found that building the right attitude is by far the most efficient way for children to learn. Dr. Briers' excellent new book is completely in line with my approach to teaching, which is refreshing as the self defence world - much like the parenting/psychology world - is still very much in reactive mode. This is in the face of the great results being found in business leadership and sport. In order for humans to better respond, interact and to get the results that make them happy they have to learn to charge of their feelings and to understand others.

We are in a time of rising youth violence and greater depression in our young. Programmes like "Super Nanny", "Brat Camp" and the like have become prime time viewing, feeding the demand provided by Generation X parents. Dr. Briers, although is never dismissive of such methods as the "naughty step", argues that too much emphasis is being placed on handling the symptoms of bad behaviour. His book deals with the root of the problem, developing skills in both parents and children that will help prevent the problems from developing later on. It removes the "guilty parent" attitude that resulted from an extreme interpretation of the famous methods of Dr. Spock combined with the liberalism of the 1960s and the Baby Boomer generation of parents. Dr. Briers shifts parenting towards the development of empathy the base for good relationships and interdependency.

With this in mind "Superpowers for Parents" is comparable with Dr. Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" in that the author has a clear understanding of what is meant by the now buzzwords "proactive" and "empowerment". Like Covey, Dr. Briers understands the partiality of the "carrot and stick" approach, the age old punishment and reward system. Dr. Briers' methods are all about teaching children to take control of their feelings, emotions and eventually their lives. The activities suggested are far from revolutionary rather they are heavy nods towards common sense. However, this is long overdue. In my own book on children's self defence I make a strong emphasis on helping children develop independent attitudes. This is vital to prevent children from becoming physically vulnerable. "Superpowers for Children" demonstrates that developing this type of attitude also prevents children from becoming psychologically vulnerable.

In conclusion this book provides a much needed guide on preventing and understanding bad behaviour in children. However, more than this, it is a very positive book for today's parents bringing the true meaning of discipline back to parenting. Discipline, as Dr. Briers explains, has too long been associated with punishment and taking orders. It is one of the four tenets I teach in my children's classes and my book, and I completely agree that discipline is more about effective mentoring and developing self-discipline than anything else. After all one can only really benefits from discipline if one is willing receive it.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and prospective parents.



NLP-style parenting, 21 Nov 2008
One way to look at this book is as an antidote to the likes of Super-Nanny. However, that's only because the focus is a little different.
Where some other books seem to take the view that children are beings to be moulded into model examples of perfect behaviour, this instead attempts as much to get you to understand their emotional situation as to help deal with their behaviour.
It comes across as somewhat unusual, because it stresses the individual personality of a child and their willingness and capability to understand.
Many of the emotional techniques for guiding from a darker emotional state to a calmer or happier one are solidly based in the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques which have been popular for many years now in personal psychology books. I haven't seen so much attempting to push those techniques specifically for use with children.
I actually like a book to say that you're not a failure if your child isn't perfectly behaved ALL of the time, and explaining that if a child is well behaved at school then unruly at home, that there are other explanations for this separation of behaviour than just the quality of parenting.

Although the books are really aimed at parents of children a little older than mine (who are all under 4), some of the techniques are useful - illustrating common mistakes which may make a child distressed and potentially even worse behaved, and how to better look at their perspective to better understand the situation. While I won't be stopping using the naughty chair, it has provided an illuminating new view on how to approach bad behaviour or reluctance to cooperate.

If your child is at school and suffering from exam stress, bullying, difficulties settling into a new school, etc, then the discussions in here may well be of particular use, as it focusses on developing more positive, pro-active psychological approaches to life.

Not Just For Kids!, 20 Nov 2008
I ordered this book because I am conscious that I will one day in the nearish future have children and I am scared that I will be a bad mother. I watch all these programmes on tv about Super Nanny etc and I wanted to see what skills I needed to develop before I put anymore thought into having my own kids.
I began reading this and applied some of the psychology type skills to my boyfriend, just to see if I was capable, and strangely, my boyfriend began to open up about things that he would normally have not talked about! Men it seems also find it hard to describe feelings so I have embarked on attempting to teach my boyfriend the skills that this book outlines to teach your children, of course I haven't told him this :) So far I can report much success in helping him to communicate with me more and therefore diverting tantrums and understanding when a storm may be brewing that I would have previously not noticed. Plus when I do have my own children, I will be an expert at these techniques !
I fully recommend this book for any woman :)

I don't feel like a superhero!, 20 Nov 2008
This book does not give parents superpowers!

I read the blurb for the book and thought it sounded quite intriguing, being an occasional user of the naughty step/area technique, I was interested in reading how to avoid this altogether, as the book claims.

To start with the book has an introduction, that goes into an introduction, into an introduction... it was continuously stating "in this book I aim to do this", "the aim of the book is this", "in this book I hope to equip you with", etc, etc, to the point where I'm thinking well get on with giving me these "superpowers" then instead of just talking about what you hope to do.

Basically the book is telling you how to encourage your children to recognise and become familiar with how they are feeling and getting in touch with their own emotions, with a view to them then being able to avert trouble themselves when they feel they are getting angry, for example, so that they can take control of their own behaviour.

Whilst I think there are some good tips in the book for helping you to to talk to your child about their emotions, I do not think it is going to achieve the results it claims to make. In my opinion even a child that is aware of their own emotions, will still kick up a stink if they are upset or feel angry. Being self aware does not automatically induce self control, as this book suggests.

Also, I found it disturbing that the author states in his book that he and his colleagues actually took part in producing the shows like "supernanny" for the BBC and actually endorsed the use of "the naughty step"... surely if his book is as good as he makes out, he would have used his own advice in these shows, especially when it states it rules out the need of the "naughty step". Sounds a bit contradictory to me!

If you really want to learn to be a good parent, just love your children and do your best for them... maybe try a free parenting course if you are struggling... but don't waste your money on faddy books that don't really teach you anything but common sense really!!


Why only four stars?, 15 Oct 2008
I have had this book for a long time and along with most Childcare students consider it a must have, so was surprised to find it had only four stars on Amazon. I had to look! It transpires that the people who gave it less than five stars mostly had bought the wrong book for their purposes! Shouldn't a book be marked for it's quality for it's designated purpose? If that was the case this would always get 5 stars! The key to the books popularity, and suitability for it's purpose lies in it's full title; Child Development, An Illustrated Guide. It doesn't claim to be a book on development theory, or a book just for the early years, it is best used in alongside other more theoretical books. Why do some people not bother to read covers of books before buying them?

Excellant!, 23 Feb 2007
I was given this book, before starting my NC child care and early education, i then used if for both my level 2 and 3 SVQ modern aprrentice, and found this much easier to use than books supplied on the course's. I say this book is a must have for anyone studying or wishing to study childcare.

Fantastic help for NVQ3, 27 Jun 2006
This book is really really helpful, I am currently working my way through my NVQ3 and ordered this book in the hope that it would provide more information than what is given in the child care and development book when breaking down the ages and stages of child development, especially in the cognitive and language development sections, which are covered in less detail in the other child care book. The way it is set out is clear and concise and also provides activity ideas too.

excellant, 02 May 2006
This book is a must for anyone doing courses in childcare.
It is written in clear and is very easy to understand. I have found it invaluable whilst attending my cache diploma course. I have even used it to assess my own children. This book focuses on all child development upto the age of 16.

A Must have, 03 Apr 2006
I'm currently in my 2nd year of the CACHE Diploma and this book is an absolute necessity. It features sections on all ages upto 16 years and a section on child development theory.
It is ideal for observations and assignments and is a must have for any student/practitioner.

Hopefully, it will come in handy for when I start University in September.

Common sense solutions, 12 Sep 2008
I bought the audio cd as it covers 1 2 3 Magic and More 1 2 3 magic.
I have enjoyed listening to the cd's albeit the music and intro are a bit irritating to my "Non- American" ears.
Thomas Phelan's presentation is witty and full of sense. I have only just started to use 1 2 3 magic with my 6 & 7 year old and life is already much calmer and the children have responded well to it. I think starting out with young children or those who are not familiar with time outs will have more of a challenge but the hard work is worth it.

This really works, 12 Aug 2008
I bought 5 other books on the same subject to help me with my 6 (going on 16 and so fully of attitude) year old daughter and my 8 year old son. Quite simply it works! The key is not to argue with the children which the book emphasises through out. Every time you think "thats all very well but what if...." the question is answered. As a single parent who's ex is very soft with the children I was at my wits end - what can I say IT WORKS!!!! I lent the book to a friend who rang me half way though her holiday in France to tell me that the first few days of her trip had been hell, then she started applying the techniques in the the book and hey presto it works!! Do I really need to say more?

easy to read and remember, is magic!, 04 Jul 2007
This book is really good have not used all the techniques yet as my daughter is only 3 years old but what i have used works a treat! i can stop and start different behaviours almost instantly! Saves alot of unwanted shouting at home and public places. Can be a little OTT on a few things but overall really good.

A sensible approach to structured discipline, 27 Jul 2005
I'm not a big self-help book fan, but I am an educationalist, and I have used Phelan's approach with my own children. Phelan outlines a straightforward technique designed to reduce the number of confontational and/or undesirable interactions that take place between children and parents. The book highlights some of the critical moments that occur during the course of normal family life, and suggests useful ways of dealing with such tensions using a simple and easily understood approach, that most children over the age of two should respond to well. We have found that if it is used consistently for a week or so, the children respond favourably. Like any family, there are lapses when we are tired or the children are ill, for example, but we have found it relatively easy to bring their behaviour back into line. Gradually the children internalise the rule system and seem to respect it, as it gives them a useful framework for getting on with their parents and enjoying family life. Perhaps one of the nicest aspects of Phelan's book is that it successfully manages to avoid preaching, and relates some of Pehlan's own mistakes and failings. This gives the book a sense of humanity and realism. Overall, I think this book represents good value for money and is a useful tool for busy parents.

every parent should have a copy, 11 Jul 2005
WOW! I am a single mum with two boys aged 6 and 8, the latter child is v challenging and this book has worked A DREAM. The best parenting book ever. Very simple. So far it has changed my life. You must buy it.

What a helpful book!, 23 Jul 2006
If you are doing an NVQ3, this book is a must. It explains each topic clearly and is easy to follow. This has been one of the most useful textbooks I have ever purchased!

book, 19 Jun 2008
this book is good for the diploma course. i am currently half way through the 2 year course. i have enjoyed using this book in each assiment and its up to date with relevnt legislation and theory

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

childrens care learning and development level 3, 22 Aug 2008
i have just completed my nvq level 3 with the help of this book, it is brilliant and helped me with evrything i needed to know and is insightful into the world of childrens care and help me understand it more easily. the book is broken down into the core mandotory units you are required to coomplete and optional units. it is like the bible if you are doin the course and is well worth having.

Not so much super powers but super help, 21 Nov 2008
This is a superb book which offers an insight into situations which many people currently feel helpless to deal with when faced with. It follows closely with the current change of thinking in secondary education where they are trying to explain to children emotions probably ten years too late. Possibly modern teachers would read this book and nod along recognising scenarios. As a parent I found it very helpful to be able to re-think talking to my child. It has helped me to talk with them as opposed to at them. At this early stage I can not state that there are definite changes but I hope they will be helpful in our relationship in the future. My only real criticism of the book is in the language used. I recognise much of the terminology from my job but I am unsure whether most people would. The chapter summaries are excellent but perhaps a future edition could be edited with a wider audience in mind?

Efficient habits for better parenting and a happier childhood, 21 Nov 2008
It must have been sheer luck that "Superpowers for Parents" ended up on my recommended list. Of all the books on psychology and parenting, this has to be considered a standout piece. I teach self defence to children and through my studies and coaching experience I have found that building the right attitude is by far the most efficient way for children to learn. Dr. Briers' excellent new book is completely in line with my approach to teaching, which is refreshing as the self defence world - much like the parenting/psychology world - is still very much in reactive mode. This is in the face of the great results being found in business leadership and sport. In order for humans to better respond, interact and to get the results that make them happy they have to learn to charge of their feelings and to understand others.

We are in a time of rising youth violence and greater depression in our young. Programmes like "Super Nanny", "Brat Camp" and the like have become prime time viewing, feeding the demand provided by Generation X parents. Dr. Briers, although is never dismissive of such methods as the "naughty step", argues that too much emphasis is being placed on handling the symptoms of bad behaviour. His book deals with the root of the problem, developing skills in both parents and children that will help prevent the problems from developing later on. It removes the "guilty parent" attitude that resulted from an extreme interpretation of the famous methods of Dr. Spock combined with the liberalism of the 1960s and the Baby Boomer generation of parents. Dr. Briers shifts parenting towards the development of empathy the base for good relationships and interdependency.

With this in mind "Superpowers for Parents" is comparable with Dr. Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" in that the author has a clear understanding of what is meant by the now buzzwords "proactive" and "empowerment". Like Covey, Dr. Briers understands the partiality of the "carrot and stick" approach, the age old punishment and reward system. Dr. Briers' methods are all about teaching children to take control of their feelings, emotions and eventually their lives. The activities suggested are far from revolutionary rather they are heavy nods towards common sense. However, this is long overdue. In my own book on children's self defence I make a strong emphasis on helping children develop independent attitudes. This is vital to prevent children from becoming physically vulnerable. "Superpowers for Children" demonstrates that developing this type of attitude also prevents children from becoming psychologically vulnerable.

In conclusion this book provides a much needed guide on preventing and understanding bad behaviour in children. However, more than this, it is a very positive book for today's parents bringing the true meaning of discipline back to parenting. Discipline, as Dr. Briers explains, has too long been associated with punishment and taking orders. It is one of the four tenets I teach in my children's classes and my book, and I completely agree that discipline is more about effective mentoring and developing self-discipline than anything else. After all one can only really benefits from discipline if one is willing receive it.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and prospective parents.



NLP-style parenting, 21 Nov 2008
One way to look at this book is as an antidote to the likes of Super-Nanny. However, that's only because the focus is a little different.
Where some other books seem to take the view that children are beings to be moulded into model examples of perfect behaviour, this instead attempts as much to get you to understand their emotional situation as to help deal with their behaviour.
It comes across as somewhat unusual, because it stresses the individual personality of a child and their willingness and capability to understand.
Many of the emotional techniques for guiding from a darker emotional state to a calmer or happier one are solidly based in the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques which have been popular for many years now in personal psychology books. I haven't seen so much attempting to push those techniques specifically for use with children.
I actually like a book to say that you're not a failure if your child isn't perfectly behaved ALL of the time, and explaining that if a child is well behaved at school then unruly at home, that there are other explanations for this separation of behaviour than just the quality of parenting.

Although the books are really aimed at parents of children a little older than mine (who are all under 4), some of the techniques are useful - illustrating common mistakes which may make a child distressed and potentially even worse behaved, and how to better look at their perspective to better understand the situation. While I won't be stopping using the naughty chair, it has provided an illuminating new view on how to approach bad behaviour or reluctance to cooperate.

If your child is at school and suffering from exam stress, bullying, difficulties settling into a new school, etc, then the discussions in here may well be of particular use, as it focusses on developing more positive, pro-active psychological approaches to life.

Not Just For Kids!, 20 Nov 2008
I ordered this book because I am conscious that I will one day in the nearish future have children and I am scared that I will be a bad mother. I watch all these programmes on tv about Super Nanny etc and I wanted to see what skills I needed to develop before I put anymore thought into having my own kids.
I began reading this and applied some of the psychology type skills to my boyfriend, just to see if I was capable, and strangely, my boyfriend began to open up about things that he would normally have not talked about! Men it seems also find it hard to describe feelings so I have embarked on attempting to teach my boyfriend the skills that this book outlines to teach your children, of course I haven't told him this :) So far I can report much success in helping him to communicate with me more and therefore diverting tantrums and understanding when a storm may be brewing that I would have previously not noticed. Plus when I do have my own children, I will be an expert at these techniques !
I fully recommend this book for any woman :)

I don't feel like a superhero!, 20 Nov 2008
This book does not give parents superpowers!

I read the blurb for the book and thought it sounded quite intriguing, being an occasional user of the naughty step/area technique, I was interested in reading how to avoid this altogether, as the book claims.

To start with the book has an introduction, that goes into an introduction, into an introduction... it was continuously stating "in this book I aim to do this", "the aim of the book is this", "in this book I hope to equip you with", etc, etc, to the point where I'm thinking well get on with giving me these "superpowers" then instead of just talking about what you hope to do.

Basically the book is telling you how to encourage your children to recognise and become familiar with how they are feeling and getting in touch with their own emotions, with a view to them then being able to avert trouble themselves when they feel they are getting angry, for example, so that they can take control of their own behaviour.

Whilst I think there are some good tips in the book for helping you to to talk to your child about their emotions, I do not think it is going to achieve the results it claims to make. In my opinion even a child that is aware of their own emotions, will still kick up a stink if they are upset or feel angry. Being self aware does not automatically induce self control, as this book suggests.

Also, I found it disturbing that the author states in his book that he and his colleagues actually took part in produ