Train Up a Child: A Practical Christian Guide to Raising Confident Children

Train Up a Child is Nancy Van Pelt’s practical guide to parenting, covering discipline, communication, character building and family relationships. It opens with a self-assessment that helps parents see their own strengths and blind spots before it says a word about the child.

What’s inside Train Up a Child

That opening choice is the book’s signature. Most parenting books begin with what the child does; this one begins with what the parent does. From there it offers methods for every stage of development, from the early years where character is formed to the teenage years where trust is tested.

Discipline is handled as teaching rather than punishment. The distinction is practical: it changes what a parent says in the moment a child crosses a line, which is exactly where most parents get stuck.

• Effective, easy-to-use discipline techniques
• Building self-respect and strong character
• Why the early years are critical
• Communication with children of all ages
• Preventing substance abuse through involvement
• Support for working parents, single parents and step-families

Who this book is for

For parents of children of any age, with the most value for those under twelve where habits are still forming. It is widely used in church parenting classes and family life programmes.

Single parents and step-families get their own chapters rather than a footnote, which is one reason the title stays in use.

About the author and publisher

Nancy Van Pelt was a certified family life educator whose marriage and parenting seminars ran internationally for decades. She wrote from counselling practice rather than theory. Published by The Stanborough Press.

Train Up a Child sits in our Marriage & Family range alongside Smart Parent. The Afrikaans edition is Leer 'n Kind.

Questions about this book

What ages does it cover?

From the early years through adolescence. Parents of children under twelve get the most practical value.

Is it strict or gentle on discipline?

Neither. It treats discipline as teaching — consistent and clear, without punishment that damages the relationship.

Does it help with teenagers?

Yes, though the book itself says the teenage years are easier when the foundation was laid earlier.

Is it suitable for single parents?

Yes. Single parenting and step-parenting are addressed directly.

Is there an Afrikaans edition?

Yes. Leer ‘n Kind is the Afrikaans edition, available in this catalogue.