This book explores the religious roots of American corporal punishment in raising children. It's interesting, and likely an important read if you were raised in a religious / violent household and are trying to raise your children differently.

This book examines many of the unspoken premises in child-rearing, namely, that parental control is necessary / unavoidable. Research has demonstrated (in this book and others) that levels of control exacted on children growing up have various and at times, profound, effects on development. A great read for anyone considering discipline not only as a "strategy" but also as a concept.

This book is a fantastic prequel to "Unconditional Parenting". It covers the extensive research on how punishments and rewards damage children's intrinsic motivation and self-esteem. The book is written to parents, teachers and supervisors, so some parts are more relevant than others. This book was an unexpected challenge to many of the commonsensical views of "bribe / threat" parenting.

Like all his other books, Alfie Kohn is well-researched and backs up his views with sound logic. This book is obviously more relevant for an older child as opposed to an infant, but fascinating read in any case.

A critique of how we come to develop subsequent relationships from our first ones with our parents. For those who are interested in how our relationships with our children influence their social and emotional development.

A staple for anyone becoming a parent. It goes along with a rational / respectful / non-punitive view of discipline.

This was a life-changing read. In part ‘cause I found McGowan's blog, which is a great resource for secular parents, but also ‘cause its the first book of its kind. Often parent books have judeo-Christian undertones via approaches to morality, learning, discipline, and obedience. This book is for parents who don’t want to indoctrinate, but want to foster kids who think critically about all things.

Another of Kohn's work. This book explores & critiques the Judeo-Christian idea that humanity is inherently evil/self-serving and instead makes a case for the unique capacity of humans to empathize. I found this a useful starting point for parenting. Whether we like it or not our view of human nature effects how we interpret the motivations of others, including our children.

I haven't read this book yet. The reviews looked particularly interesting, and I assume its one of those books that challenges some of the conventional ways we talk to children. IE, "You're a good boy!" Often parents use statements like this to reinforce good BEHAVIOR in children, but the wording implies goodness as a personal quality as opposed to making behavioral choices.

Another one of Thomas Gordan's work, highly recommended!!!!

This book has been recommended to me by nearly ever non-coercive / progressive parent I know! I haven't yet received it from Amazon, but I would recommend it! Read the reviews for more info!

I wrote a somewhat mixed review of this book on its rating page that I would recommend anyone read before buying it. Its a great book in terms of being anti-coercive / respecting children and demonstrating unconditional love, but I didn't find it to be particularly well researched. I got some good things out of it, but it requires reading with a critical eye.

Often times a non-religious family can feel left out in many of the Christian/religious daily and seasonal rituals. This book is great for stimulating ideas on how to create rituals unique to your family / community.

All about creating emotionally connecting rituals in your family / community.