Clayton Paul Thomas is the author of Tantrums, Troubles and Treasures: A Parent Guide to Parenting in the 21st Century, which is one of the most innovative books I’ve read on parenting. What impressed me most when chatting with Clayton Paul Thomas was his love of family, being a proud father of two adorable boys and his passion to work with youth and their families. Thomas has worked with kids for about 16 years from three different settings. The first was at St. Joseph Children’s Home, a place where abused kids went after permanent separation from their parents. “Most of my parenting skills were developed here,” states Thomas. He explained that the kids he worked with ranged from ages 3 to 15. However, Thomas didn’t stop there; he later became an elementary school teacher. He taught from first to fourth grade for 7 1/2 years. Now Thomas has two boys (ages 7 and 3) to learn the rope on when it comes to parenting — or should I say practice the skills he has learned over the years from working with kids.
However, his parenting skills were mostly learned at St. Joseph, Thomas said, “My wife has been the inspiration to writing Tantrums, Troubles and Treasures and sharing insights with all I meet. To her, I am eternally thankful.”
When chatting with Thomas, I was not only sharing experiences I’ve had a parent, but also taking in what he calls “tools in the parenting tool belt.” I may be a mother of three, but I’ll be the first to tell you any new tricks to the trade are greatly welcomed. Thomas believes every parent, and teacher, can be even better than they are now. “If you think there are areas where you could improve, please use any idea presented in my book. There is a saying that insanity is doing the same thing again and again while expecting a different result,” he states. “We can all be better parents and I believe my book will help you take the next step.”
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