Smart Parenting for Smart Kids (Paperback)

Note to the Reader.

Acknowledgments.

Introduction: Rethinking Potential.

1 Tempering Perfectionism: What Is “Good Enough”?

Michael: Focusing on flaws.

Kirsten: Deflecting blame.

Sam: Avoiding activities at which he doesn’t excel.

Angela: Feeling inadequate.

2 Building Connection: How Does Your Child Reach Out to Others?

Andrew: Seeking an audience rather than a friend.

Clay: Avoiding joining the group.

Amalia: Feeling rejected by peers.

3 Managing Sensitivity: How Does Your Child Handle Criticism, Conflict, and Disappointment?

Mario: Perceiving betrayal.

Jessica: Balking at constructive feedback.

Samir: Chafing at a change of plans.

Collin: Shouldering the world’s woes.

4 Handling Cooperation and Competition: How Does Your Child Fit in a Group?

Steven: Insisting on his way.

Anita: Being a sore loser.

Misha: Fearing competition.

Craig: Dealing with competition in the family.

5 Dealing with Authority: How Does Your Child Respond to Those in Charge?

Lisa: Being blind to authority.

Nicholas: Making everything an argument.

Stephanie: Fretting about adults’ anger.

6 Developing Motivation: What Matters to Your Child?

Ethan: Avoiding schoolwork.

Jared: Complaining that schoolwork is boring.

Diane: Not applying herself in school.

7 Finding Joy: What Makes Your Child Feel Happy?

Monica: Finding fault instead of fun.

Conner: Searching for personal meaning.

Conclusion: The Pressure to Perform Versus the Power to Grow.

Selected References and Recommended Reading.

About the Authors.

Index.