The Parent-Child Dance

A unique manual to raising a child—for parents everywhere—using the metaphor of dance to provide expert, comforting advice.

Having children and raising a family should be the greatest joy in one’s life, but it is a role that requires tremendous responsibility and patience. As parents, our job is to provide a strong foundation for our children, so that they can eventually grow up to become self-sufficient adults. However, just like everything in life, all children are different, some requiring more support than others and to varying degrees over time. Parenting is like a dance between parent and child. The more seamless the movements, the more graceful the interaction. When a parent takes the lead or decides to share, over time with practice, the dance can be smooth and effortless.

Nevertheless, when the child is unintentionally allowed to take the lead, the parent-child dance may appear more rocky and unstable. This often occurs when the parent is unclear and at odds with their role. The ensuing battle for the lead may cause disharmony in the relationship and the dance. Parenting is a lifelong commitment that takes patience, thoughtfulness, and skill. The Parent-Child Dance is designed to explain the concept of the dance and act as a catalyst for encouraging parents to begin their journey in making positive changes in their child’s life. Parents will recognize the scenarios and gain insight through humorous examples and step-by-step strategies to avoid disharmony.

Ronald A. Kotkin, PhD, is a clinical professor Emeritus at the University of California, Irvine, and has been an elementary school teacher, chairman of a special education credential and graduate degree program, researcher, clinical psychologist, and director of UC Irvine's Child Development Center day treatment program for children with ADHD. Kotkin has published multiple articles and chapters on school-based intervention and is the coeditor the Therapist's Guide to Learning and Attention Disorders. He lives in Orange County, California

Aubrey H. Fine, EdD, is a child psychologist and a professor at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he has been a member of the faculty for over thirty years. Over the course of these years he has received numerous professional awards including the Educator of the Year presented by the California State Learning Disabilities Association. In 2001 he was awarded the prestigious Wang Award which given to a distinguished professor within the entire California State University. Fine has authored ten books on a variety of subjects, including Fathers and Sons and The Total Sports Experience for Children. He lives near Pomona, California.