Top Parenting Books for Positive Parenting

By Alissa Marquess Zorn on March 20, 2017 (updated April 14, 2017)

These are the top books for learning about positive parenting. When we decide to look for new parenting tools one of the first things most of us think about is finding a good book to read. Some books below I have only read in part, some all the way through. I tend to be a “gleaner” of parenting tools, picking up ideas here and there as I need them or come across them.

The authors of the books below use a variety of techniques for bringing peace to families.

I believe all are within the realm of Positive Parenting (parenting out of love, not fear), but not all will be a fit for you, in fact, some tools are a fit for a time, but then we need to move on. You can purchase the books below and if you purchase through my link you’ll be helping support Bounceback Parenting, (for which I am very grateful). However, you may also have luck finding many of these at my library, and that can be a nice way to “try out” a book before you purchase it to see if you’ll find enough tips that will work for your family.

One of the best things about reading about a variety of parenting approaches is that when you reach a frustrating point in your parenting, when you know something needs to change, you at least have an idea of a new approach to try.

Positive Parenting – the Essentials

First – for an overview of the basics of positive parenting, take a look at Positive Parenting: An Essential Guide by Rebecca Eanes. This is a wonderfully readable book that covers the basics of positive parenting – why it matters and how to begin enacting it in your home . It would make a great gift for expecting parents as well.

Parenting Books for Connection and Calmer Days:

Figuring out ways to connect with your kids and putting structures in place that help your days go smoother can prevent many (but not all) frustrating behaviors. At least if you feel a strong connection to your children, you will likely have more energy to deal with discipline in a positive way.

Positive Parenting Books about Discipline and Behavior

In the parenting books below the authors come from a standpoint that our kids WANT to be successful. This helps us remember that our kids are learning and growing beings who want to succeed, and that their behaviors are communication to us about what’s going on with them.

Books About Parenting Intense or Strong Willed Children

If you sometimes feel bowled over by the intensity of you kids, the following books may help. Raising Your Spirited Child is a long time favorite. You can be a connected parent with an intense child – in fact, this kind of parenting may be the best for both of you!