"It all comes down to the wings"
The Doc is a big fan of Herbert Renz-Polster - a paediatrician colleague and well-known author. The Doc is always happy to receive books from him! This time too, although he has one small criticism ..
As the title suggests, the book is about the fact that education should also and above all be empowering. That we should give our children wings or give them the time to develop their wings. So that they can later go out into the world independently. So that they also develop a certain resilience and strength to be able to deal with sorrowful and painful experiences. To do this, we as adults must be able to endure when the child is not doing so well emotionally. We have to stand by them, but not keep every negative experience away from them.
Herbert Renz-Polster manages to convey all of this very well, with a great deal of warmth and understanding for parents and families. And that's why the Doc gives it a very clear recommendation to read. As is actually the case for every book by Renz-Polster.
However, the doctor has one critical comment this time: he feels that the book lacks a little clarity in places. Herbert Renz-Polster has perhaps fallen into the trap that is also part of the zeitgeist. That is to say, to show understanding for everything and everyone so as not to embarrass anyone or step on any parents' toes. A kind of hyper-understanding.
And Herbert Renz-Polster in particular, whose tone is so warming and heartfelt, doesn't need that at all. And so there is a lack of clarity in places. One chapter, for example, is headed with the question "Isn't 'no' always a bit of a compulsion?". Of course it is, but that's also okay. If, for example, a child wants to run around freely on the main road and not walk by the hand, then a clear "no" is the only sensible option. And parents would be better off if we took a very clear stance from time to time.
But all in all: great book, clear recommendation!
Further interesting tips
Car heat trap
In summer, you just want to go and buy an ice cream or quickly withdraw some money and the baby can wait in the car. That's one of the things you should never do! Because the car can become a life-threatening heat trap within minutes.
Constipation
Constipation is one of the most common reasons why parents come to the practice with their children. The good thing is that the problem is usually easy to solve and is rarely a symptom of an illness.
Sun protection
When it comes to sun protection, as is so often the case, there are rules - but you also have to approach things with common sense. Please don't lock your children up out of panic about UV damage. Because both are possible: outdoor exercise and safe sun protection - if you follow a few rules. What never hurts: when adults set a good example.