"Parenting pundits proliferate"

Parenting pundits proliferate
A couple of generations ago, parenting advice came from grandma's
traditions, the neighbor's opinion or, in case of a high fever or
temper tantrum, a dog-eared copy of Dr. Spock.
at http://www.washtimes.com/familytimes...0349-3912r.htm

By the books
Who: Pediatrician William Sears
The principles: Dr. Sears, a father of eight, promotes "attachment
parenting" -- which fulfills a child's basic need for trust, empathy
and affection through a set of eight ideals. Enthusiasts usually feed
baby on demand, share the same bed, wear baby close to them in a sling
and use positive discipline.
Book: "The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby From
Birth to Age Two"

Who: Pediatrician Benjamin Spock
The principles: The late Dr. Spock, the father of two sons, reassured
post-World War II parents to trust themselves and be an encouraging and
flexible presence for their child. He pointed out to parents that there
is no such thing as "letter perfect" when it comes to parenting. Dr.
Spock's books have been revised and updated and are still popular.
Book: "Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care"

Who: Boston pediatrician T. Berry Brazelton
The principles: Dr. Brazelton, a father of four and grandfather of six,
became a soothing presence for the 1990s. He emphasizes nurturing
children and anticipatory guidance. His syndicated column runs in The
Washington Times.
Book: "Touchpoints: The Essential Reference"

Who: Family therapist John Rosemond
The principles: Mr. Rosemond, whose syndicated column runs in The
Washington Times, is an advocate for less psychobabble and more common
sense. He is the father of two grown children. His "affirmative
parenting" approach says emphasis should be placed on the marriage and
not so much on being pals with the children. With the right parenting
example, children can be kept in line but have lots of room to learn
from mistakes. Mr. Rosemond is against TV watching and in favor of
giving a child household responsibilities at a young age.
Book: "John Rosemond's New Parent Power"

Who: "What to Expect" writers Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi Murkoff and
Sandee Hathaway
The principles: These writers' best-selling series is in a
question-and-answer format, making it an easy-to-read guide when a
problem arises. It is written by women with children, rather than a
doctor or psychologist dispensing theoretical advice. Ms. Eisenberg
wrote the books with her grown daughters, Ms. Murkoff and Ms. Hathaway,
who is a registered nurse.
Book: "What to Expect the Toddler Years"

Who: TV psychologist Phil McGraw
The principles: Dr. Phil, who has two sons, advocates having a new
mind-set, philosophy and plan of action to make changes in your family.
This starts with improving communication, helping children discover a
sense of purpose, setting an example, establishing a routine as well as
meaningful traditions and rituals, and learning to manage a crisis.
Book: "Family First: Your Step-by-Step Plan for Creating a Phenomenal
Family"

Who: James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family
The principles: Mr. Dobson, a conservative Christian and father of two
grown children, promotes a return to traditional values, including
administering discipline (including spanking).
Book: "The New Dare to Discipline"

Who: Gary Ezzo, executive director of Growing Families International
The principles: This controversial Bible-based program advocates
"structured parenting," including feeding on a schedule (which should
result in babies sleeping through the night at 8 weeks old) and "swats"
for discipline. Mr. Ezzo has grown children and six grandchildren.
Book: "On Becoming Babywise"