Includes bibliographical references and index.

"The Heart of Parenting is a guide to teaching children to understand and regulate their emotional world, what Daniel Goleman in his bestselling book calls "emotional intelligence."" "Too often, says Gottman, children's emotions are dismissed - whether intentionally or not - and this can have a harmful effect on a child's self-esteem. Using examples that parents are sure to recognize, he explains how to become an "Emotion Coach," a parent who encourages children to express their emotions and helps them to manage emotions, with the goal of eventually learning how to handle emotional crises on their own. "Emotion Coaching" is a five-step process that is carefully and clearly explained in the book. Properly practiced, it will lead to greater emotional intimacy and trust between parent and child, even in times of emotional crisis." "Drawing on anecdotes from his studies as well as his own experiences as a parent, Gottman provides clear and sympathetic guidance for parents on how to teach their children the intelligence that comes from the heart."--BOOK JACKET