Hints on Child Training

Trumbull offered me a new set of goals. Life was still not easy, but instead of trying to win, I was trying to help them do right. What a difference that made! I did not have to feel like a failure; I had to help them choose right, and after that it was really their problem. It was not my job to force them to do right. (By the way, they chose to do right a lot more often under this system.) Trumbull also addresses issues that most Christian parenting books neglect, because they are focused almost exclusively on questions of right and wrong. This book talks about helping a fearful child, spending time playing with the children, encouraging their table conversation, and choosing friends and books. It gave me a picture beyond win-lose.

If you think all parenting books are either harsh or too soft, you must read this book. It's not a choice between punishing a lot or spoiling--there are other paths. A book from a different age simply brings different thoughts.


Time tested truths for tested parents   December 6, 2000
Chad D Carson (Kennesaw, Ga United States)
34 out of 36 found this review helpful

Wow! what a refreshing book. This subject has been penned into print by many authors; but Trumbull's technique is one of using Biblical virtues and focusing on the very best child training information. This technique results in simple, easy to understand chapters and a very clear understanding of what our little ones face in everyday life. I read the book once, then twice, there is no finality in finding helpful hints in this book. Who better to write on the subject, as Trumbull himself raised eight children, during a time when virtue and character were elevated to high status. Subjects such as: courtesy, dealing with children's fears, scolding, adding value to a child's Christmas, were all written with compassion. All parents should read the chapter "Never punish a child when angry."

Even in the late 1800's, Trumbull did not resort to spanking until all other efforts had failed. Instead, he urged parents to allow the child to choose between punishment or making the right choice. This, according to Trumbull, is accomplished by becoming a police officer not a judge. Does it work? A resounding, YES! I have changed my training technique and my children are now easier to control.

I highly recommend this reading to all parents and soon to be parents. It will greatly improve your ability to deal with your little "angels", when they test you.


Single Best Parenting Resource   January 4, 2002
J. Shelton (Charlotte, NC United States)
25 out of 27 found this review helpful

This book is the single best parenting resource I've seen.
I've read it several times; actually, I read it continously.
As others have noted, the English is old and proper, but that's a big part of the charm of the book for me.
It's like sitting and listening to a wise old gentleman/grandfather.....hanging on and soaking up his every word.
I highly recommend it for all parents, regardless of religious background (or no religious background).


Wise, precious gems that I have found at last !   February 23, 1999
16 out of 16 found this review helpful

I have been searching for books on child rearing, and am very glad to have found this. Being a new mother, it's been a "What should I do" series of questions till I read it. The book gives a thorough and practical treatment of many aspects involved in training a child. Issues like will-training, denying a child for his good, honoring his individuality, training of self-control, appetite, faith, courtesy and many other pertinent areas are covered with practical guidelines.


What a great book   January 20, 2007
Goat Lovin' Mama
18 out of 19 found this review helpful

I came across this book in the 1990's, I was familiar with Elizabeth Elliot, H.Clay Trumbull's great grand daughter, and had great respect for her. I always wonder, about what the parents were like, of a person like Elizabeth Elliot. I was also looking for something fresh on Child Teaching and Training. I wanted a biblical perspecitve but was frustrated for years with the status quo "christian based" parenting books.
Our own family at the time, consisting of 4 sons, one in particular so very strong willed, while the children were doing well and respectful, I wanted more. I wanted to do better as a parent, and to gain new insight.
Now that we have 3 younger daughters, I am enjoying reading this book once again.
It always seemed that the "christian parenting" books were more about how to "control" than disciple.
This book is so refreshing. It is about discipling little ones. It is compassionate, caring and not a "how to" book. I am so thankful for that.
Trumbull makes you look at yourself, are you being tender? compassionate? Understanding? Are you depending upon the Lord for HIS wisdom for your little one? When your child goes to bed, are the lasts words they hear from you harsh or loving?
I cannot say enough positive things about this book.
And I just love, that he dispells the assumptions of modern day parents that in the "olden days" every parent was harsh and beat their children. It couldn't be further from the truth.