It’s the toughest, most important job in the world, experts agree. But it doesn’t come with a how-to manual. Most parents muddle through the parenting years using a mixture of what they learned from their own parents, books on the subject, trial-and-error, prayers, and frustration.

Drawing on her experience as a daughter, parent and school advisor, Liza Weidle has written an easy-to-read guide for navigating those busy years. Written in small bites a mother can read in the car pool line or just before sleep at the end of a long day, she offers practical advice for using the "teachable moments."

Whether the subject is schoolwork, relationships, religion or sex, Liza’s advice is that children learn best in a home where they are valued and feel safe. She quotes many inspiring sources. The words of John Fischer back up her theories on teaching faith. "Things that parents can do to help children grow in their faith, Fischer says, "include creating an environment where anything can be talked about and being available to children when they want to talk.

Liza also emphasizes "walking the talk of family devotions and faithful living, and taking time-even when it’s inconvenient-to listen.

Liza offers practical help to make celebrations-birthdays, Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Veteran’s Day, and the Fourth of July-meaningful and special so that children learn while planning and participating.

As I read The Truth About Parenting, I wondered, "where was this book when I was raising my six? I also thanked God for this family who is part of our Peace Church fellowship, and the proof of good parenting we see in the two boys who are the book’s central characters. It took courage for Liza to lay bare her family life-the stumbles and the strides-before those of us who know her. I’m so glad she found that courage.