Skip the Psychobabble! Parenting Experts Offer Straightforward Advice in New 'Smart Parenting' Book

STONY BROOK, N.Y., Nov. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Parenting experts Dr. Carl Arinoldo and wife Linda Arinoldo, M.S., have co-authored a recently released book, Essentials of Smart Parenting (Nova Science Publishing 2007), that eschews complex terminology for easily understood guidance, providing busy parents with helpful advice that hones parenting skills while reducing related stress.

"We've emphasized advice taking both the parents' and children's needs into account and made the book as conversational as possible," said Dr. Arinoldo. "I'm confident that implementing these simple principles can lead to better parenting and happier, healthier children." The longtime Long Island psychologist also extends some brief pointers, 'Five Quick Tips for Improved Parenting,' that sum-up some of the advice book's main principles:

    1. United We Stand: Nothing can undermine a parental foundation like a
       mixed message, so couples need to be on the same page with rules,
       discipline and everything else.
    2. ABC or Always Be Consistent: Make fair rules and don't change them!
       When a child knows the guidelines for good behavior -- and the
       consequences for bad behavior -- they'll require parental intervention
       far less often.
    3. Give YOURSELF a Time-Out! Managing one's own stress is crucial to good
       parenting, so parents should arrange times during the day when they can
       take a break from it all.
    4. ACT, Don't React: Getting into a tit-for-tat with a child is
       counterproductive, so parents should take action rather than argue.
    5. Pick Your Battles...to Avoid a War! By deciding when to step in -- and
       when to stay out -- of certain situations parents will achieve greater
       household harmony.

These tips are but a sampling of the indispensable guidance provided by Essentials of Smart Parenting.

Dr. Carl Arinoldo is a part-time college professor who operates a private practice in Stony Brook, NY. He is also the host of the popular NY-metro area cable TV program Mental Health and Education Today. Linda Arinoldo is a school psychologist who has worked with children of all ages and their families. The proud parents of an adult son, the Arinoldos previously co-authored the book How to Control Your Eating. Dr. Arinoldo is available for phone interviews to media nationwide as well as in-person throughout the NY Tri-State area.