Many of us enter parenthood with a perfect vision of what our family will be. But along the way we discover that the children we’ve been blessed with are real human beings, with their own minds, ideals, and views of the world. Our influence only goes so far, and when those children reach the pre-teen and teenage years, it may seem to have disappeared completely. Yet at no time in a kid’s life is their parents’ positive, godly influence more critical.
For parents who are concerned that their child is pulling away, following poor role models, or making choices that will lead to pain and difficulty, Mike Berry has good news: it’s not too late. He offers parents nine keys to maximizing and leveraging their influence to help their children through these difficult years and develop a relationship with them that can weather any storm.
My thoughts on this book.
If you are a parent, then this book is relevant for you!
I found myself being challenged and getting my toes stepped on in every chapter!
Just a few things that really jumped out at me…
One of the most important things about parenting–it is what the title says, “winning the heart of your child”. The first chapter title says it well–“Winning the Argument but Losing the Heart…Pick the Right Fight”. The chapter begins with this statement: “Sometimes it is easy to forget that you can win the argument and force the right behavior but lose the heart in the process.”
Why does it feel so important to us as parents that we get it across that we are the one who’s right, and their opinion is wrong?!
And then there’s a chapter about boundaries, and how children need (and want!) them. And it is required of parents that we are consistent. (yes–oh so very difficult!)
He goes on about various matters that are key and important, but another thing that really spoke to me was that we need to allow and be ok with allowing others to have influence on our children’s lives. This especially changes as they get older. This does not mean that parents don’t have any influence anymore….it’s just that it’s different. This is one reason why it is so important to be a part of a community, a church family, or whatever, where there are other spiritually mature Christians who are able and willing to speak into our children’s lives.
What is it that we want people to remember about us, after we are gone? Are we living in a way that is accomplishing that goal?
Parenting is not for the faint of heart, and especially as our children get older… (our third daughter is becoming a teenager this week! :O ) it is so necessary and good and helpful to find books like this one that can give assistance in this journey of life.
As with any books…it is of course important to remember that this book is not the Bible. While it offers much helpful advice, its words must be held up to the light of God’s Word, as we determine what God is asking of each one of us, in our own lives.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
All-of-a-kind Mom 
When my little one was born, our neighbour said: ‘ Congratulations! The next 12 years are going to be the best years of your life.’😁
Sounds interesting what the book says about outside influences and setting boundaries.