The House of Tiny Tearaways 

 Author – Dr Tanya Byron

Age Range – 1-7

 This book is for the parents and carers of young children. In it, Dr Tanya Byron (a clinical psychologist who specialises in treating children, teenagers and families with psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties), addresses issues of child behaviour and parenting problems. She provides convincing evidence that positive parenting and the power of creative play and praise are central to transforming behavioural difficulties in young children. The book covers issues such as sleep and eating problems and tantrums in children; and self-esteem and consistency in parents. Although The House of Tiny Tearaways comes from the television series of the same name, it is not necessary to have seen or have any knowledge of the programme.

The book is full of specific examples of both the difficulties and the ways of overcoming those difficulties experienced by the families who took part in the programme. Photographs, highlighted quotes and point-form summaries accompany developmental information given alongside practical suggestions. Case studies are succinct and informative; examples of the families’ struggles and successes are encouraging and moving. The book is easily accessible and offers hopeful, attainable suggestions and help.

The glossy, ‘magazine’ format of this book may be distracting or off-putting to some readers, as may be its connection to the world of entertainment. However the book contains good, sensible, practical suggestions and gives examples of them having a profound effect on the lives of the families involved.