Do you read parenting books?

[Greenmom500]

Well, I've read tons of them.  I use what I like and discard the rest!  Anyway, there was one recently that made some sense to me -- I was on www.RealParentsRealAnswers.com and watched a video that Dr. Michael Popkin was in where he was saying how important it was to show empathy toward your kids and that punishment can sometimes break down the parent-child relationship.  I liked what he had to say about that -- basically that children need to be disciplined, but it has to be done with love.

[Candid Carrie]

Well, I read some parenting books.  Not too many and I pick and choose what information I incorporate into my parenting style.  I think my biggest resource is my experience and the experiences of other parents that I respect.  I have several adopted kids that (on the outside) clean up absolutely beautiful but on the inside they have scars that will last a lifetime.  We see a psychologist weekly.  And even finding one that I liked took a long time. 

[emsplace]

I agree... parenting books could be a guide, but I can't imagine saying "i have to do it that way because it is in the book"....

I think Friends and family we trust and common sense are the best parenting tools.