When Children Need Parents: A Guide to Raising Our Children with Love, Respect, and Understanding

By Françoise Dolto

In her groundbreaking book, When Children Need Parents, Françoise Dolto offers a revolutionary approach to parenting that is based on love, respect, and understanding. Dolto argues that children are not simply miniature adults, but rather unique individuals with their own needs and developmental stages. She emphasizes the importance of listening to children, respecting their feelings, and setting limits with love and firmness.

A Child's Emotional Needs

Dolto begins by discussing the emotional needs of children. She argues that children need to feel loved, accepted, and secure in order to develop healthy self-esteem. She also emphasizes the importance of play, which allows children to express themselves and learn about the world around them.

Setting Limits with Love and Firmness

Dolto believes that children need limits in order to feel safe and secure. However, she also stresses that limits should be set with love and firmness, rather than with punishment. She offers practical advice on how to set limits that are appropriate for your child's age and developmental stage.

Communication with Children

Dolto emphasizes the importance of communication with children. She believes that parents should listen to their children, respect their feelings, and answer their questions honestly. She also offers tips on how to talk to children about difficult topics, such as death, divorce, and sex.

The Importance of Play

Dolto believes that play is essential for children's development. She argues that play allows children to express themselves, learn about the world around them, and develop their social skills. She offers tips on how to encourage play in your child's life.

When Children Need Parents is a must-read for all parents. Dolto's insights into child development are invaluable, and her advice on parenting is practical and compassionate. This book will help you to raise your children with love, respect, and understanding.

Praise for When Children Need Parents

"Françoise Dolto is a pioneer in the field of child development. Her work has had a profound impact on the way we think about children and parenting. When Children Need Parents is a classic work that is still relevant today. It is a must-read for all parents." — Dr. T. Berry Brazelton

"Dolto's book is a treasure trove of wisdom and insight. She offers a unique perspective on child development that is both respectful and empowering. When Children Need Parents is a must-read for all parents who want to raise their children with love, respect, and understanding." — Dr. Jane Nelsen

"Françoise Dolto is a brilliant thinker and a gifted writer. Her work has changed the way we think about children and parenting. When Children Need Parents is a masterpiece that is essential reading for all parents." — Dr. William Sears