Once a Parent, Always a Parent

by Stephen Bly

Practical help for determining healthy boundaries for parenting adult children. Previously published as Just Because They've Left Doesn't Mean They're Gone. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1561796743
• ISBN13: 9781561796748
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: Focus on the Family Publishing
• Length: 238 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 4.1" x 7.0"

Customer Reviews

I needed that.

As we entered the parenting adult children stage, we began seeking advice when our (newly adult) kids didn't seem to be quite what we had expected. After reading several parenting books and becoming pretty discouraged about all that we did not do correctly when they were younger (and we know we weren't that bad) this was a breath of fresh air. Our question was: "What do we do now?" If your kids are confused and a bit 'lost' in trying to figure out who they are and what they want to do with themselves this book may be of great encouragement. It also discusses those who are bit more than just lost and confused. I was encouraged to stick with it and them.

Once a Parent, Always a Parent (Focus on the Family)

I found the context of this book very helpful and encouraging. I would recommend it to parents of adult children. We read it and decided to use it as part of a resource in a Christian based parenting workshop that we were asked to give for our area. As in all advice and experiences of others one has to take it and evaluate how it fits into their lives and the lives of their family. It is for the most part a Christian based book and I liked that. I gave it a 4 because I felt there were several remarks made that weren't necessary or had anything to do with the subject material.

A great realistic overview

A very "down-to-earth" realistic overview of life with adult children in today's world and the challenges and victories we face together. The first 35 pages don't contain a lot of "meat" so skip over it or hang in there for the best part. Great suggestions,ideas, true stories, and loads of encouragement for both parents with struggling or "successful kids." Some of my favorities: specific examples of how to talk to your kids that would be more effective and get good results such as the chapter "Six Characteristics of a Nice No", another great chapter, "Dumb Decisions" (theirs) which weaves the Prodigal Son throughout, and the last two chapters which focus on reparenting the adult child and passing on the truth. This book is an easy-read and helpful no matter what your situation.

Much needed encouragement!

Covers almost any situation of dealing with adult children who aren't entirely gone from the nest. Helps reader sort out priorities and guidelines for one's own situation. Highly recommended!