My parenting beliefs started with reading, then were confirmed with experience.
My top recommendation: Read, read read!
Books
“Playful Parenting” by Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D.
I simply can’t recommend this book highly enough. About so much more than the title, this book covers everything, is full of great ideas, and explains the psychology behind it all in a way that’s easy to understand. If you’re going to read just one book, this is the one.
Further information on the author and his work can be found here.
Also recommended:
“Unconditional Parenting” by Alfie Kohn.
Don’t just listen to Supernanny or the other mums at toddler group – get the facts on the effects of dishing out rewards and punishments. If your parenting style is entrenched in star-charts and time-outs, take a deep breath and prepare yourself for a major shift in your attitude and approach. Kohn backs up his fascinating writings with references to a convincing stock of studies and research.
Further information on the author and his work can be found here.
“How to Talk so Kids will Listen and Listen so Kids will Talk” by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
Based on the work of psychologist Dr Haim Ginnot, this is another easy to read book full of practical advice, that challenges typical responses. Could be particularly useful for parenting older children too.
Understanding your Child series from the Tavistock Clinc.
A series of short books, giving the basics on the development and psychology for each particular age group.
Websites
If you feel you don’t have time to read a book, try browsing some websites. These are just a few of the websites that I find particularly useful.
Parenting with Understanding 