Hints on Child Training (H. Clay Trumbull)

Hints on Child Training

A Book that’s been helping parents like you — for more than 100 years

A 19th Century Classic for Christian Parents

Homeschooling veterans and authors, Bill and Mary Pride say:

“Each of these short chapters amazed us with its depth of practical insights: Why the Bible says we must train our children’s will, not break them. Why scolding is always wrong-and what to do instead. How to train your child to be courteous, to deny himself, and not to pester. Choosing proper amusements and companions. Nourishing your child’s faith. And how to get willing obedience and respect from your children. This book will give you a whole new perspective on your joy as a parent-and a lot more hope!”

“What Trumbull calls ‘hints’ are, in fact, precious jewels…I have been greatly helped by this wonderful book”, says Gregg Harris. A book with much wisdom to pass on to Christian parents regarding our attitudes towards our children and on how to bring willing obedience forth from them rather than forcing it from them. The author was Elisabeth Elliot’s grandfather.

Fortified with common sense and Biblical wisdom, Trumbull’s straightforward guide has established its place as a classic work in the field of child rearing. Written over 100 years ago, it is completely free of modernist influence. After all, Freud had not yet developed his theories of the subconscious; Pavlov and Skinner had not yet introduced to educators their animal-training techniques known as behaviorism; Dewey’s Religious (i.e. Secular) Humanism had not overtaken the public schools; and Dr. Benjamin Spock had not published his dangerous book on child training.

Review by Karen Andreola

Much has changed since Hints on Child Training was first published in the 19th century, but some things never change. Children will always need loving discipline.

Trumbull’s hints help make well brought-up children. Hints are for training in Self-Control, Courtesy, and Faith. Other chapters explore:
. . The Value of Table Talk
. . Will-Training Rather than Will-Breaking
. . Honoring a Child’s Individuality
. . Never Punish in Anger
. . Dealing Tenderly with a Child’s Fears
. . The Influence of the Home Atmosphere
. . The Power of a Mother’s Love
. . The Place of “Must” in Training
. . Developing a Child’s Taste in Books – – – and more.

About the Author

Henry Clay Trumbull was born in 1830 and became a prolific author, highly regarded for his practical wisdom.  A Congregationalist pastor, he also was a spearhead in establishing Sunday Schools throughout the northeastern United States, becoming superintendent of a mission Sunday-school under the Connecticut State Sunday School Association.  He also served  served as chaplain to the 10th Connecticut Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War.