Excerpt: 'Happiest Toddler on the Block'

March 5 -- In his new book, The Happiest Toddler on the Block, Dr. Harvey Karp explains that if you talk to your tantrum-prone toddler in what he calls "toddler-ese," the tantrums should stop.

Read an excerpt from The Happiest Toddler on the Block, which is also on video/DVD, by Dr. Harvey Karp.

You can also find more information on Dr. Karp's techniques at www.thehappiestbaby.com.

EXCERPTS: The Happiest Toddler on the Block,

"When people talk, listen completely. Most peoplenever listen."

—Ernest Hemingway

Main Points:

The Fast-Food Rule is the best way to talk to anyupset person: Before saying what you think, repeatwhat he said — with sincerity. If you skip the Fast-Food Rule, your irate friend maynot be able to listen to you. When your child is upset, it helps to translate whatyou say to him into Toddler-ese (his native language). Toddler-ese has four characteristics: very shortphrases, repetition, emphasis, and gesturing.

How Do You Say Thatin Toddler-ese?Communication ThatReally Works!

Toddler-ese takes some practice-but it will help yoube a better, and happier, parent. You are about to learn a new and highly effective way to defuse yourtoddler's outbursts with love and respect. It's based on understandinghow his prehistoric mind works.

First, let's start with a little quiz. Which best describes your toddler'smind?

1. A neatly manicured park 2. A rolling green meadow3. A jungle