Using a process approach, this in-depth introduction to parenting children from birth through adolescence includes the theories and practical strategies for how parents and caregivers can establish secure and close emotional relationships with their children. The book focuses on two basic tasks of parenting: creating close emotional relationships with children and establishing effective limits for children. It shows how parents carry out these tasks with children of different ages and with changing life circumstances (i.e. working parents, divorce). Each chapter includes a section on the joys of parenting, reinforcing the positive aspects of being a parent.