It took months of doctors visits and several illnesses for Erica Reid to uncover that her young son had multiple allergies and serious asthma. Her daughter, who had suffered from skin irritation since birth, was diagnosed with food allergies as well. Thus began a cautious, thoughtful journey to more doctors and led the author to totally re-vamp her family's diet, "de-tox" her home, and, as her children grew older, coordinate healthy routines for school and travel.

Along the way, Reid developed complementary child-rearing strategies promoting respect, responsibility, creativity, spiritual balance, and love. From heath and nutrition to discipline and spirituality, Reid schooled herself in every area that is part of creating a totally healthy environment in which a family can flourish. The Thriving Child also includes in-depth prescriptive advice from top experts, including doctors, and celebrity mothers.