

Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Dell; Reprint edition (March 1, 1990)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0440506816
ISBN-13: 978-0440506812
Product Dimensions: 5.4 x 0.3 x 8 inches
Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars See all reviews (35 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #75,302 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #64 in Books > Parenting & Relationships > Parenting > School-Age Children

My husband and I are in the process of raising three daughters, ranging in age from 15 to 6. Throughout I have found this series, although sometimes outdated in specifics, right on in terms of emotional and behavioral development.I have found it comforting to see that the books define certain behaviors as stages, just as they are occurring. And I have felt less alone as I have battled some of the less desirable behavior.These authors really know what they are talking about.
When my then 5 1/2 year old was behaving much differently than he had at age 5, my mother pulled out an old hardcover version of the Gesell Institute Books and - oh my! - much of the changes seemed to be quite common among 5 1/2 year olds!These are 'old' books (I'm one of the earliest of the baby boomers, though my child is now nearly 9), but they are still useful.This book and all in the series are little paperbacks, quick to read. Our society has changed since they were written, so a bit of the book may seem dated if you don't like 'traditional roles. However, there is much good information and wisdom in here, unencumbered by the modern day concerns about ADD and such. In expensive, a good investment to ease a parent's mind. A nice gift from grandparents to their own children, and for young parents, just nice to have on the shelf for those days when we forget that kids behaviors and interests change as they grow up.
Look for the updated copy by typing out 8 - Your Eight Year Old - by Louise Bates Ames, Printed 1990. I love this series and almost didn't find it in here.
I am buying this book because I already own "Your two year old" through "Your six year old" written by the same author. The books I have read by this author are succinct and written in a conversational tone. The insight that I've gained into the developmental/behavioral stages of a child in this series have been great.
I love these books. Some of the references are a little outdated (to be expected.. they were written some time ago) They don't offer parenting advice as much as they talk about normal occurrences for each age.
Author Ames has done many years of observation of children professionally. In this book, she helps parents of 8 year olds understand the child and guides them through good and bad times, times that are fascinating and proud, as well as trying and frustrating. Any parent with an 8 year old will gain a lot through these pages. The author addresses the child's school life, social life, interests, abilities, tension outlets, the eight-year-old birthday party and other important issues. She also brings to the parents' attention the fact that it is an up-and -down age, the child tends to be analytical and evaluative. With her professional and psychological instincts, Ames brings to attention some issues parents may not notice, such as the child's new enthusiasm, curiosity, and expanding spatial world.It is interesting that the author points out the differences between a 7 year old versus an 8 year old, which parents may not have noticed well.There is a list of books for an eight year old, and a list of books for parents of an eight year old. These books and networking with other parents can provide an informal support system for parents.Intuitive author!
These books will track a child's progress remarkable accurately. Whenever we find ourselves totally frustrated we invariable read that age book and learn a ton.Our kids lives have been deeply enriched by having us understand what they are up to. Its uncanny how right on this series is.Our boy just turned 8 and over the last few months has really started to change, not always for the best (it felt). Thats why we stopped procrastinating and bought the 8-year-old edition. Now we get it. We understand the pitfalls we are up against at this unique age and have been able to shift our parenting roles so that we can best deal with him and get him the outcomes he needs.We've been using the books for both our children since birth essentially and can not recommend them enough.Really, if you are a parent, get these books. They are life changing.
It seems that in the past 20 years our kids environments have changed a bit but their development is similar. I wish I had found these books sooner. It was so comforting to hear that our daughters nightmares are a stage that many 7 year olds go through and that 8 is the year of confidence and exploration. Looking forward to leaving the insecurity and "it's not fair" age of 7 to the wondrously independent age of 8! I have also purchased age 5 to remind me what to expect for my younger son and will also get age 6. Love them!
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