Book Review by a School Counselor

"As a parent of young children I found your book inspirational and hopeful.  As a high school counselor who meets with students and parents on a daily basis, I find your book to be filled with invaluable information.  You lay out a practical, user-friendly guide that no parent or secondary counselor should be without! 

 Of particular interest to me as a parent of young children were your chapters on “Communication” and “Shhh, We Don’t Talk About That.”  “Communication” was a needed reminder for me of how to build and maintain a strong relationship through positive communication.  I loved your examples of typical parent-teen (or any age child) communication – sadly for me, some sound all too familiar.  Your book reminded me of the pitfalls we can all fall into when communicating with our children.  The exercises you provide for meaningful communication are well thought out and manageable for any family to follow. 

 After reading the chapter, “Shhh, We Don’t Talk About That” I feel much better prepared for and confident about discussing those “taboo” topics when the time comes.  Thank you!!

 When I visit with parents who are at a “total loss” and ready to give up on their teen, your chapters “Rules and Consequences” and “Boundaries and Consequences” offer great advice.  (This is where I would show them a copy of your book and let them know where they can purchase one themselves!

Rick, in truth, I enjoyed your book and found it to be helpful in both my personal and professional life.  I believe you have created a guide for the journey of parenthood that will instill confidence in parents and that will help bring out the best in parents and teens!"

Ashlie D'Spain, High School Counselor