"Dr. Elkind has shown that in blurring the boundaries of what is age appropriate, by expecting - or imposing - too much too soon, we force our kids to grow up too fast, to mimic adult sophistication while secretly yearning for innocence.".

"In the two decades since this book first appeared, we have compounded the problem, inadvertently stepping up the assault on childhood in the media, in schools, and at home. Taking a detailed, up-to-the-minute look at the Internet, classroom culture, school violence, movies, television, and a growing societal incivility, Dr. Elkind here shows us where hurrying occurs today and why.

And as before, he offers parents and teachers alike insights, advice, and hope for encouraging healthy development while protecting the joy and freedom of childhood."--BOOK JACKET.