Scientific Secrets for Raising Kids Who Thrive

By: Peter M. Vishton, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Peter M. Vishton

Length: 12 hrs and 47 mins

Publisher's summary

Parenting advice isn't hard to find. There are thousands of books on the subject, as well as a multitude of websites. Much has also been written on the science of child development. What's been lacking, however, are sources of reliable advice that bring together the scientific research and its real-world applications.

This course bridges the divide. In 24 engaging lectures, an expert in the cognitive development of early childhood presents what scientific research has revealed about the things parents can actively do to promote children’s long-term development right from birth. Professor Vishton delivers a wealth of practical tips to help children reach their full potential intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially. And he supports it all with findings culled from the latest scientific literature.

You’ll touch on topics across all areas of childrearing, from sleep and nutrition to behavior and academics. And you’ll get answers to many of the most common parenting questions:

• Should I sleep-train my baby by letting her “cry it out”?
• Should I let my infant, toddler, or child watch TV-and if so, how much?
• Should I allow my child to play video games?
• Should I pressure my picky eater to finish her vegetables?
• Should I spank my child when he misbehaves?

In addition to learning methods for laying an early foundation in subjects such as math and reading, you’ll gain information for boosting your children’s overall cognitive abilities-and even their IQ scores.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2014 The Great Courses; 2014 The Teaching Company, LLC

Worth listening to

I thoroughly enjoyed the course. That being said, however, I wonder if the presenter was not at least minimally biased. I was hoping for at least some mention of the Glen Doman Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential and their own scientific research.

A must read for parents, aunts, grandmas etc...

Would you consider the audio edition of Scientific Secrets for Raising Kids Who Thrive to be better than the print version?

Not applicable

What was one of the most memorable moments of Scientific Secrets for Raising Kids Who Thrive?

The three lectures on Montessori schooling and its benefits were compelling. We put our kids in montessori because of the price and the people. It wasn't until listening to this series that I truly appreciated the decision we made. Dr. Vishton touches on so many myths regarding parenting that it really opened my eyes and allowed me to be a better and more informed father.

Good All-Around Jumping-off Point

I sort of bought this book on a whim, but found myself pretty enthralled. The lectures are well laid out, and are pretty easy to follow for the most part. My children are a bit too old for some of the tips to be of use, but there were countless others worth considering now and in the future. I would strongly recommend this course for parents that aren't sure where to start when it comes to all of the research out there on fostering development.

The absolute best book on raising children

I wish I had had this when my kids were small. I’m a therapist and often read books that I can recommend to my clients, this is at the top of my list! I highly recommend this book.

Tips to become a better father

I'm convinced I'm more prepared to lead my kids after hearing this ebook. Worth the time, I've read it twice in 2 different stages of my kids development and each time I found useful new tips.

Sound, objective, applicable

Lots of actionable ideas for improving the quality of your parenting and your child's development.

There are a lot of common sense concepts discussed, but also several that flout the standard approaches to parenting. I'd say this is well worth your time.

A Must for New or Again Parents

I first listened to this engaging set of lectures when my first child was just born. I enjoyed and loved them so much that I had to go for a second run around the time of birth of my second kid. Each lecture covers a particular developmental subject or a group of them and is beautifully and clearly delivered by Dr. Vishton. If you are becoming a parent, the chances are you've learned parenting from your parents and family, but does that mean you know or have the correct set of information? These series of lectures will give you the scientifically proven methods and scientific knowledge that you and the people who will be interacting with your loved ones need to help the little ones grow in a thriving environment.

definitely, recommends to every parent

definitely, recommends to every parent
does not matter if current or oncoming.
great cades and ecamples used

engaging, educational and fun with a great flow

lots of simple real life tips to help simplify the scientific understanding of child development and what they need from adults

A great overview with much actionable advice

It's not the sum of all parenting, but it's a great survey of various topics that you can use to guide your parenting research. Definitely worth the time, if nothing else or reinforce good habits you hopefully already have!