What do you think?
Rate this book
Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World
Child expert Jill Rigby reveals the dangers of the self-esteem parenting philosophy and offers an alternative approach that teaches children to respect both themselves and others.
After decades of experimenting with child-focused parenting, parents are beginning to realize that the result is often self-centered children who tend toward narcissism, selfishness, mediocrity, and dysfunction. Rigby espouses a new goal of gently bumping children off self-center and teaching them to be unselfish givers instead. Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World dares to revisit the values of compassion, forgiveness, thanksgiving, and unselfishness and insists that we can instill these values in our children.
With her encouraging approach, Rigby helps parents realize it's never too late to change their children's point of view and equip them to interact with kindness and respect in a world outside themselves. Teaching concepts, such as developing a passion for compassion, learning to give by forgiving, and filling every day with thanksgiving, Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World offers a new paradigm for parenting—one that educates the heart and teaches moms and dads how to parent with a new end in mind.
After decades of experimenting with child-focused parenting, parents are beginning to realize that the result is often self-centered children who tend toward narcissism, selfishness, mediocrity, and dysfunction. Rigby espouses a new goal of gently bumping children off self-center and teaching them to be unselfish givers instead. Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World dares to revisit the values of compassion, forgiveness, thanksgiving, and unselfishness and insists that we can instill these values in our children.
With her encouraging approach, Rigby helps parents realize it's never too late to change their children's point of view and equip them to interact with kindness and respect in a world outside themselves. Teaching concepts, such as developing a passion for compassion, learning to give by forgiving, and filling every day with thanksgiving, Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World offers a new paradigm for parenting—one that educates the heart and teaches moms and dads how to parent with a new end in mind.
268 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
6 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 28, 2017
Many people gave negative review about the book. Saying that there isn't anything much in the book that they already know. I kinda agree, but I think its not that real bad, its still readable. After finishing this piece, I strongly believe that the title should be 'Raising Christian Children' instead of the current title, the book was heavily accompanied with passage from scripture. But there are some good suggestion on parenting which I think can be taken and applied such as giving kids task, teach them to become more independent and stop doing things for them which they can do for themselves.
June 25, 2018
I really enjoyed this book even though I knew most of her points already (want a selfless child? Be a selfless parent - yikes). She has some great suggestions though and great lists of applicable Bible verses.
On a personal note, this author seems to really practice what she preaches. I was shocked to find out that she is a single mom and her husband left her early on. She writes without bitterness or resentment and with a great deal of love.
On a personal note, this author seems to really practice what she preaches. I was shocked to find out that she is a single mom and her husband left her early on. She writes without bitterness or resentment and with a great deal of love.
March 4, 2016
I LOVED this book. I think everyone should read it. Parents, or people who want to be parents some day. People who are around children, ever. Grandparents - I suppose they would be parents by default... teachers, caregivers, sitters. It may not be as interesting for folks who aren't parents already. I personally read it while 4 months pregnant with our first child, and I feel like I got a lot out of it. Not only tips, ideas, and attitudes towards raising my own baby, but insight into my (and my spouse's) families of origin, and how their methods of raising us have affected us.
I would say that I tend to be a bit over-the-top at times with trying to teach and maintain an others-focused perspective. I do not say this apologetically, however, as I'm NOT sorry! I just think the book may have held a little more interest for me than the 'average' person as a result of my bent towards compassion already.
I would also advise that this is a Christian book by a Christian author, and although she's not quoting bible verses every other page, she does base a lot of her activities & perspectives on biblical concepts. Just a note, if that is something that is going to bother you.
I personally thought it was fantastic.
I would say that I tend to be a bit over-the-top at times with trying to teach and maintain an others-focused perspective. I do not say this apologetically, however, as I'm NOT sorry! I just think the book may have held a little more interest for me than the 'average' person as a result of my bent towards compassion already.
I would also advise that this is a Christian book by a Christian author, and although she's not quoting bible verses every other page, she does base a lot of her activities & perspectives on biblical concepts. Just a note, if that is something that is going to bother you.
I personally thought it was fantastic.
December 19, 2012
Jill Rigby shares fabulous advice on rearing "others-centered" rather than self-centered children with the help of the Lord. I'm very drawn to Christ-centered parenting. I am no where near being a perfect person. I believe that if you draw closer to the Lord and are constantly asking for His spirit and hand to manifest in your life and those of your children, He will make up the difference to (my) imperfections.
Jill gives practical advice for three different age groups (toddler-7 yrs, tweens & teens). Then she shares personal stories of learning and growth. She didn't make herself out to seem like a perfect individual either. There were times when it was her twin boys that showed strength and faith when she needed an example. The advice isn't rocket science, but I found many good ideas to try and heartily recommend this book as an encouragement to parents who would like to raise gratitude-centered children.
Jill gives practical advice for three different age groups (toddler-7 yrs, tweens & teens). Then she shares personal stories of learning and growth. She didn't make herself out to seem like a perfect individual either. There were times when it was her twin boys that showed strength and faith when she needed an example. The advice isn't rocket science, but I found many good ideas to try and heartily recommend this book as an encouragement to parents who would like to raise gratitude-centered children.
January 8, 2009
The concept really intrigued me since I have a keen interest in working with kids and connecting them to not only meaningful community service, but a lifestyle of service.
I wish there had been more specifics on the "how" based on Biblical principles, and even on personal example. It felt a lot more in places like personal memoir of the author, and often it just seemed like a chat on the subject more than practical application.
Not much new here for me.
I wish there had been more specifics on the "how" based on Biblical principles, and even on personal example. It felt a lot more in places like personal memoir of the author, and often it just seemed like a chat on the subject more than practical application.
Not much new here for me.
September 4, 2008
This is a good one. I used to read as many Christian based self-help books on bettering myself and raising my kids that I could find. Looking back most books had some truth in them, but the answers to all life's questions can be found in the Standard Works. You just need to follow the Spirit and let him guide and direct you. Age does bring wisdom.
October 27, 2010
This book was a GREAT read for any parents or parents-to-be. The author is Christian, and the book is very clear about how Christianity plays a role in helping our children cultivate selflessness. Great ideas for all ages of children and ideas for parents and families as well. Loved it (especially the first two sections).
April 24, 2012
I loved this book! We already do quite a few things that she suggests, but then there are suggestions that I never would have thought of. She offers ideas based on the age of the children, gives examples, provides Biblical support, suggests, books, movies, games, activites and more. I will probably buy this one!
August 28, 2014
I really liked this book and the practical suggestions it offered! The author writes from a Christian perspective (doctrine presented was minimal) and encourages building Godly character traits. I especially appreciated that suggested activities were listed by age group and included ideas appropriate for preschool ages through teens.
March 19, 2010
This should be a MUST for all parents of youngish children. She does a great job of explaining where selfishness is seen, where it comes from and practical tips on how to work on an unselfish attitude. Easy read! I plan to get her book on raising respectful children too!
August 4, 2014
Not impressed. Save your time and read The Parenting Break-Through by Merilee Boyack. It talks about the same parenting ideas, but it's more practical, more specific, and less alienating to those who don't share her exact same religious beliefs.
April 18, 2013
Best parenting book I've read in quite a while. It was a library book, and I constantly found myself wanting to highlight or underline (things I rarely do unless it's important) I ordered a copy online so I can have it, and underline to my hearts content.
September 4, 2008
Great read for parents who don't want spoiled kids.
March 18, 2010
I recommend this book to anyone with children. It was very inspiring to me, and it provides lots of practical application.
March 31, 2010
The author uses lots of detailed examples from her own family and her clients, and has a very Christian center to her teachings.
November 23, 2011
Most Christian parenting books that I have read tell you that in order to raise children of character, you need to work on your own character first. Ouch.
April 27, 2012
Excellent counter-cultural guide for parents who want to raise extraordinary young adults. Easy read, inspiring.
May 8, 2015
Biblically based. Overkill on the religiosity. Some fair points but generally irritating.
October 21, 2008
It gave practical examples of how to develop character in children for all age groups.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews