Madeline Levine

I'm not a huge fan of the title. But I do support the idea that feeling loved, a sense of autonomy, and allowed to follow things that interest you are important needs. It's also true that children need so much more than things. Another idea that she never really pointed out was the (modeled here) tragedy that here are hundreds, if not a couple thousand, of teenagers that replace their parents with her---their therapist. The final chapters, aimed specifically at mothers, were worthwhile and sad, at the same time.

It was interesting that she didn't really seem to address how poverty can exacerbate these issues(compounded with the stress of worrying about basic shelter, food, and other needs). For example, if nothing changes, we will make 25000 this year. Our ability to choose is severely limited by that---as is our ability to have fun hobbies. It can be draining. Stress over money can mute the love and attention that parents are able to show to each other and their children. I'm not complaining, just saying that it's not just a problem that the "privileged" have. I just want more information on that hypothetically ideal middle ground.

We should be acutely aware of the children in our society, no matter where or how they live. If they(or their parents) can afford the AP courses, the Ivy League schools, and the private tutors, we should still care for their mental and physical health. If they (or their parents) can't afford clothing, food, shelter, extracurricular activities, a bus pass, or gas for their cars, we should still care for their mental and physical health. They are, as Levine rightly says, the future. And, as she chillingly points out, permissive parents who hire lawyers to defend their children and state that "boys will be boys" after abusing disabled children are creating an incredibly dangerous world. Brock Turner anyone? … (plus d'informations)

I found lots of good tidbits of new information in between pockets of studies and advice I'd found in other sources. Which is totally not their fault. Nor was it impossible to sift out her political leanings--- something which, depending on the person and the time, might detract from the message.

I really thought she had some unique points in the second-to-last chapter, though I didn't quite see the connection to the overall topic.

The most surprising thing in the book was her position on teen advocacy which, because it is more recent than most of the books I've read, included the response to the Parkland shooting. Her stance shocked me because the whole book had been about how we need to not push/drag our children into adulthood. However, what I think she meant, was that when it inevitably happens(as it does in times like these) this is a better and more empowering response? I would have appreciated a bit more clarification on that.… (plus d'informations)

A lot of this book is repetitive(if you've read the other two). Also, oddly, the last half of this book quoted very little scientific studies which detracted from the quality. I also disagreed with several of her statements in the section regarding the 14-18 age group. I've read several books that quote contradicting studies.

That being said, the format of this books is helpful and I like the way she breaks down the development of children by age. The tips were helpful and put the application into perspective.… (plus d'informations)