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What Your Therapist is Reading: Part 2 - Parenting.

By Sofie Charron, RP



Without a doubt, parenting is one of the most challenging endeavors a person can experience. While many describe it as the most fulfilling and rewarding thing they've ever done, parenting often confronts individuals with all of their emotional blindspots, traumas, weaknesses and limits. Add to that the pressures of modern day parenting, and it can really take a toll on a person and their relationship. Each parenting experience is unique because humans are unique (and complex!) and fortunately, there are many helpful resources out there.


Childhood and parenting are understandly some of the most researched topics in psychology and social sciences. These days, there is an abundance of information on the topic which can be helpful and at times admittedly overwhelming. There is so much out there so this is by no means an exhaustive list; that said here are some of the parenting books this author has found most helpful:


  1. How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber, Elaine Mazlish & al.

    This one has cartoons! But seriously - this book is an easy read with very pragmatic advice. The authors also wrote How To Talk So Teens Will Listen & Listen So Teens Will Talk with practical advice on dealing with typical but challenging adolescent behaviours. Their approach can help prevent escalation of conflict by teaching you how to get your message across effectively as a parent, all while building a positive relationship with your kids and meeting their emotional needs.

  2. Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain by Daniel Siegel

    Have your ever felt like your teen was so difficult to understand, it's almost like you guys weren't even having the same conversation? Well it turns out there's an explanation for that! I won't give out any spoilers, so you might as well read this book. It provides an update on all the most recent scientific understandings on the adolescent brain; the changes that are happening, how that translates into typical (often questionable) adolescent behaviours, and how you can parent them effectively.


  3. Whole Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind by Daniel Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson

    Siegel also wrote this parenting gem along with parenting expert Tina Payne Bryson. These authors help their readers understand the developmental milestones of a child's growing brain as well as the function of some of their most challenging behaviours (like tantrums). They also provide effective, age-appropriate strategies to help navigate these challenging situations all while meeting your child's developmental needs so that they can grow up mentally and emotionally healthy.

  4. Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD by Eli Lebowitz, PhD

    I kid you not, this author's approach is so good and effective, their therapist training programs have waitlists! This is a must-read for any therapist working with children or parents who notice these traits in their own children. Understand where these behaviours come from, how they function, and how to help your child cope in a more life enhancing way.


  5. How Not To Lose Your Sh*t With Your Kids: A Practical Guide to Becoming a Calmer, Happier Parent by Carla Naumberg

    I'm a sucker for a catchy title and this one certainly caught my eye. Despite our best intentions, it's not uncommon for our feelings to get the best of us when we're parenting our kids. This book can help any parent understand themselves better and cope with some of the more challenging aspects of parenting - served with witty, relatable humour.


For more reading recommendations on topics such as emotions, relationships, personal growth and more, check out the other posts in this series and stay tuned for more! If you wish to discuss any of the topics above with a compassionate therapist, send an email to info@charrontherapy.com.

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