In Saving Childhood, cultural critic Michael Medved and his wife, psychologist Diane Medved, provide positive and practical strategies for parents who struggle every day with a society that seems perversely determined to frighten and corrupt its young. They explore and explain today's assault on innocence, which now menaces our children from four directions--the media, schools, peers, and most destructively, parents themselves. This book provides both general and detailed suggestions on how to overcome each of these influences and give our children the most precious gift of all--a secure, hopeful, and protected childhood. The Medveds argue that the destruction of innocence among today's young arises From the good intentions of some of the most "enlightened" elements in this society, who believe we must warn children about--rather than protect them from--the harsh Facts of a cruel and often violent world. But Saving Childhood provides powerful evidence that a healthy society, and the psychological health of each individual, requires a period of nourishing and sheltering in order to instill confidence and security in each new generation. In this vital wake-up call, the Medveds provide a clear, practical, and uplifting blueprint for rescuing the enchantment of youth. They suggest that rather than stressing danger and despair to our children, we should emphasize gratitude, clear standards of behavior with predictable results, and a sense of home as sanctuary. Both shocking and hopeful, Saving Childhood empowers parents to restore the key elements of childhood innocence--security, a sense of wonder, and optimism--that should be honored as the precious birthright of every American child.