The Not-So-Great Guidebook to Childrearing for the Not-So-Bright Parent

Book excerpt: This humorous parody of a self-help manual was meant to offer useful advice on parenting, though from the not-so-bright mind of a contemporary father. Instead, a look into the inner workings of the rather strange and bizarre male mind is revealed, explaining the mystery behind some of the unusual behaviors seen in the dad of the 21st century. As a father and an Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor who sees many children in his practice, Dr. Fong provides "lessons" on parenting through his personal experiences, such as: -To avoid spousal reprisals, never criticize your wife when she disciplines the kids. It is best to leave well enough alone, crack open a beer, and watch a mindless sporting event on T.V. This is an example of a "win-win" situation. -When having the "Sex Talk" with your kids, always ask first what they already know. You may be surprised--they may know more than you! This could be a great education for Dad! -When toilet-training a child, always be encouraging. So the next time your child pulls you to the toilet to marvel at his unusually large creation, say something positive like, "Wow, I can't believe you made that all by yourself! Let's save it for Mom!" Obviously, some of these "lessons" are unconventional, but they do resonate with the thinking of many of today's fathers. Although written from the male point of view (and with the male weakness of being wrong most of the time), this book gives a fresh perspective into the relationship between father and offspring, and enlightens others into the foibles of the male mind when it comes to raising kids. In essence, this book reminds us that children do teach us about the simple joys of life that we often neglect to appreciate; and by seeing the world through their eyes, we can recapture that sense of possibility and magic that we lost along the way to adulthood.