Little Sprouts and the Dao of Parenting

Ancient Chinese Philosophy and the Art of Raising Mindful, Resilient, and Compassionate Kids

De: Erin Cline

Narrado por: Christine Kiphart

The ancient Chinese philosopher Mencius compared children to tender sprouts, shaped by soil, sunlight, water, and, importantly, the efforts of patient farmers and gardeners. At times, children require our protection, other times we must take a step back and allow them to grow. Like sprouts, a child’s character, tendencies, virtues, and vices are at once observable and ever-changing.

A practical parenting manual, philosophical reflection on the relationship between parent and child, and necessary response to modern stereotypes of Eastern parenting, Little Sprouts and the Dao of Parenting reconsiders cultural definitions of success and explores how we might support and nourish young people. Engaging deeply with foundational Daoist and Confucian thinkers, Georgetown philosopher Erin Cline offers accessible, provocative musings on key-parenting issues.

She reveals how ancient Chinese philosophers encourage surprisingly modern values - a love of nature and of learning, mindfulness in everyday interactions, an embrace of disabilities and diversity, and the power of performing rituals with reflection - and relates these to concrete parenting practices, whether celebrating special occasions or finding a child’s unique talents and gifts.

©2020 Erin Cline (P)2020 Dreamscape Media, LLC

very beautiful book

This is a very wise and common sense book on how to treat people starting when they are children. Comforting and pleasant to read.