I recently finished Lisa Whelchel's "Creative Correction: Extraordinary Ideas for Everyday Discipline" and found it to be one of the best books I've read in a long time. Lisa Whelchel is best known for her role as Blair on the TV series The Facts of Life. She is now a home-schooling mother of 3. I saw her speak at Fellowship Church (where I used to attend and work) in Texas, and was impressed by her wisdom and eloquence. I'm always on the look-out for ways to glean wisdom from moms who seem to be "successful" parents, so I was especially excited to discover Lisa authored books. "Creative Correction" did not disappoint me.

The book follows a basic structure: each chapter covers a topic like parenting the heart of a child, spanking, sibling conflict, or toddlerhood. The chapters are divided into sections: an informative discussion of the topic; then, a "toolbox" of practical ways to implement the topic. This toolbox is like a treasure chest of creative ways to work with God to shape the heart and character of your child. I've already used a handful of the ideas with Patriot and met with resounding success!

I tend to become very frustrated when discipling Patriot and weary of reusing the old time-out approach. I've found such freedom in adding to my bag of discipline tricks and knowing I have other options. This freedom alone has helped me keep my cool when he's in a meltdown.

The most impressive aspect of this book is its Scriptural basis. So much of what we read in parenting books and magazines changes over time. I find it difficult to trust these opinions when forming my parenting strategies. However, I believe there is no surer way to discipline and grow a child than on the truths found in the Bible.

These truths will not change, and Lisa has led readers to some of the most applicable passages. She dedicated 20 pages to memory verses, grouped categorically, that will help guide children in the correct path. So far we've taught Patriot a verse about whining and a verse about listening. Next will be respecting authority. I love repeating Bible verses to Patriot instead of saying "It's not nice to whine" over and over. I hope I learn to get better at this.

Overall, "Creative Correction" is a great reminder that God is the ultimate parent and we earthly parents must simply follow His lead in guiding our children. What a relief to know He is in control and it isn't all my fault! I would recommend this book to any parent.