Why Can't I Be the Boss of Me?

This book has a story for children and a guidance section for parents. The story is about an eight-year-old who believes he should get to do whatever he decides. His parents hadn't realized how much they'd been giving in to him, but they start to realize how furious, defiant, and disrespectful he becomes when they don't. They know this can't continue. This realistic, informative, and empathetic story shows how they guide him to understand and accept his role in the family.

The parent guidance section explains what to expect of kindergarten-to-third-grade children and how much say to give them. It tells why children won't do what we say and what to do about that. You'll find out how to motivate your children without bribery and what the newer and better consequences are. You'll learn the best tools to use so children will understand how much say they can have in decision-making while helping them develop compassion, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. You'll also gain tools for dealing with hard issues such as your kids refusing to apologize, lying, and doing homework. New insight into working with your parenting partner is provided. Through this book, you and your children will learn why they can't be the boss!