Work at Home Success By Jill Hart
Mom Laughs By Cheryl Moeller
Simplifying Motherhood By Trish Berg
Ask A Twin Mommy By Cheryl Lage
Mothering By Heart By Cheri Fuller
Jelly Mom By Lisa Barker
Family Check-up By Sheila Wray Gregoire
Parent to Parent By Jodie Lynn
Moments for Mom By Elisabeth Corcoran
Making the Most of Marriage By Paula Friedrichsen
Taming Your Family Zoo
Reviewed by Amy B
Are you fairly new to parenting? Maybe not so new to it, but your kids seem a little out of control or aren't so forthright with "please" and "thank you?" Donna Jones may have the answer for your dilemma.
Taming Your Family Zoo, is a manual for raising well mannered kids.
It offers a six week plan, guiding you in teaching your children
manners. Are you wondering why you should be concerned whether or
not your children have good manners? Well, some studies have shown
good manners may translate to more success and confidence, and
better relationships for your children.
An environment of unconditional love, with boundaries and
discipline, is necessary to raise children who respect themselves
and others. This respect, Ms. Jones ascertains, is the basis for
etiquette.
There are four steps in teaching your children manners, and each one
is explained in detail. These steps are rehearsing, reminding
reinforcing and reflecting. The training program is meant to take
six weeks, but it could take more or less time, depending on the age
and capabilities of each child. It starts off with the basics;
learning when to say "please," "thank you," "excuse me," etc. Having
respect for adults by addressing them properly is discussed, as well
as how to make introductions.
After that, you move on to table manners and properly setting a table. Then comes the correct way to communicate using the phone, mobile phone and email, followed by how to be a good hostess, party guest or house guest. Towards the end of the six weeks, you will help your kids learn how to make and keep friends. Also, there are suggestions on how parents can help encourage friendships and good sportsmanship.
The book ends with Ms. Jones discussing the different age groups and
what can be expected from each, and a question and answer section. I
think I've done pretty well raising my kids with manners, at least
the basics. The surprising thing is I probably learned a thing or
two about etiquette from reading this book. I think by using this
guide you can make it fun to teach your children manners. You are
reminded that kids are always learning and it shouldn't be
embarrassing if they do something wrong, but only if we fail to
correct them.
You can find more details about Taming Your Family Zoo by Donna
Jones here.
© Amy, 2004-
Amy is a SAHM of two. She volunteers with her church youth program and at her childrens' schools. She lives in Ohio with her husband, two beautiful children (ages 4 and 9), and a couple slobbery 'fur babies'.