Jacob Abbott, a leading child rearing author of the 19th-century and author of childrens stories certainly understood the mind and nature of a child. His expertise comes through both timelessly and powerfully in this book. He maintains that the authority of the parent over their children must be achieved at a very young age, but there are better ways of winning over the heart of the young to achieve a healthy obedience other than harsh words or severe punishment. Abbott wrote over 200 books and for many parents of the 19th century, this was his most important work. Originally published in 1871, Gentle Child Training has been out of print too long. His insight and sympathetic heart sheds a great deal of light on misunderstandings that modern man has about so-called "Victorian" child-rearing. Abbott, an outstanding observer of human nature, has compiled a work which gives both parents and teachers a new perspective on the interactions between adult sand children. Chapter 1. the Three Modes of Management Chapter 2. What Are Gentle Measures? Chapter 3. There must be PARENTAL AUTHORITY. Chapter 4. Gentle Punishment of Disobedience. Chapter 5. The Philosophy of Punishment. Chapter 6. Rewarding Obedience. Chapter 7. The Art of Training. Chapter 8. Methods Exemplified Chapter 9. Della and the Dolls. Chapter 10. The Power of Sympathy. Chapter 11. Sympathy-- the Parent with the Child. Chapter 12. Commendation and Encouragement. Chapter 13. Faults of Immaturity. Chapter 14. The Activity of Children. Chapter 15. The IMAGINATION in Children. Chapter 16. Truth and Falsehood. Chapter 17. Judgment and Reasoning. Chapter 18. Wishes and Requests. Chapter 19. Children's Questions. Chapter 20. The Use of MONEY. Chapter 21. Physical Punishment. Chapter 22. Gratitude in Children. Chapter 23. Religious Training. Chapter 24. Conclusion.