12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know

Acknowledgments xi

Note to the Reader xiv

Introduction: What is a Real Mom? 1

Part One How Can a Real Mom Give Her Children Love That Lasts for Always? 17

Chapter One From the Sacrificial Mom to the Child Who Can Thrive Without You 19

Chapter Two What is a Real Mom These Days? 23

Chapter Three Why Being a “Sacrificial Mom” is Bad for Your Kids 33

Chapter Four Can Our Kids Make It on Their Own? 45

Part Two The 12 Simple Secrets of Real Mothering 59

Real Mom’s Secret 1 A Mother Who Loves Teaches Worth 61

Real Mom’s Secret 2 A Mother Who is Firm and Fair Gives Her Children a Moral Code to Live By 77

Real Mom’s Secret 3 A Mother Who Listens Shows Her Children They Matter 93

Real Mom’s Secret 4 A Mother Who is a Good Role Model Gives Her Children an Example Worth Copying 107

Real Mom’s Secret 5 A Mother Who Teaches Values Inspires Character 125

Real Mom’s Secret 6 A Mother Who Supports Her Children’s Strengths Builds Their Confidence 143

Real Mom’s Secret 7 A Mother Who Encourages Independence Cultivates Self-Reliance 161

Real Mom’s Secret 8 A Mother Who Applauds Effort Nurtures Perseverance 177

Real Mom’s Secret 9 A Mother Who Accepts Her Children’s Shortcomings Nurtures Resilience 193

Real Mom’s Secret 10 A Mother Who Takes Time for Her Children Helps Them Build Strong Relationships 213

Real Mom’s Secret 11 A Mother Who Laughs Teaches Joy 231

Real Mom’s Secret 12 A Mother Who Takes Care of Herself Holds Together Her Happy Family 249

The Last Word 269

References 271

About the Author 283