No. Why Kids-of All Ages-Need It and Ways Parents Can Say It
David Walsh, Ph.D.

Reader Reviews
Reasonable Book Helps Parents Say "No"
By Edward J Vasicek

This book is meant to help fortify the resolve of parents who have a hard time telling their kids,"no." The author himself obviously struggles this way, but has found it worthwhile to say "no" despite his inclinations.

The book argues for balanced parenting that helps train kids to be responsible adults. The ideal is neither autocratic nor permissive. He understands the trends in culture toward rarely saying "no" to kids, and he does a good job convincing parents of this need and right.

The book has its weak spots -- such as an example of a father giving his toddler son a choice of clothing (young kids need to learn to obey; choices are for older children, in my view).

There are many books in the evangelical world that argue a similar case (Dobson, et al), but it is refreshing to see a secular book arrive at similar conclusions.

Mostly deals with pre-teen kids (from birth on up), though there are a few good examples of teens and parental authority.

All and all, a good and reasonable approach -- and a desperately needed one. Parents need to be comfortable with their authority.

Bravo!
By Chrissy K. McVay "Writer"

Finally, a book on 'realistic' parenting. I'm so weary of hearing that we are too strict on our child because we don't allow him to do whatever he wants, talk nasty to us or other adults, etc. I've seen kids who never heard the word 'no', (or their parents didn't stick with it). When these children finally get into the job force and have to deal with all sorts of limits, behave themselves, and show respect, they become even more unhappy. I've not seen a single example of a child who was a happy, well-adjusted adult because he or she got their own way all the time. This book is on my top ten list of parenting guides and I have to say 'Bravo' to David Walsh for saving us from one of our biggest mistakes as parents, 'over-indulgence'.

Chrissy K. McVay
Author of 'Souls of the North Wind'