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Continue reading →: ‘Free to Learn’ by Peter GrayIn ‘Free to Learn’, Peter Gray explores the benefits of natural, self-directed learning and provides a compelling argument against the traditional schooling system. One of the most well researched books I have read to date, it is difficult to give this book anything but 5 stars. Short take: The book…
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Continue reading →: ‘Hold onto Your Kids’ by Gordon Neufeld and Gabor MateIn a world where peer influence seems to dominate, ‘Hold onto Your Kids’ is a book worth reading. Originally published in 2004, the book underscores the importance of parental attachment and challenges prevailing cultural norms that prioritise peer relationships over family bonds. Short take: The book encourages parents to foster…
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Continue reading →: ‘Buddhism for Mothers’, by Sarah NapthaliBuddhism for Mothers by Sarah Napthali is one of my all time favourite books when it comes to parenting and raising kids. It offers a thoughtful and refreshing approach, exploring how Buddhist principles can be applied to the challenges of motherhood. Like Napthali, I use the term ‘mother’ in this…
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Continue reading →: ‘Hey, Warrior’ by Karen YoungPart of my core clinical toolbox, ‘Hey, Warrior’ is a thoughtful and information-packed book about anxiety, which introduces kids to the fight-flight response and role of the amygdala in fear. The story not only helps kids identify signs and symptoms of anxiety, but explains the neurobiology of why these symptoms occur.…
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Continue reading →: ‘Ten things I wish you knew about your child’s mental health’ by Dr Billy GarveyIn this succinct, easy-to-read book, developmental paediatrician, Dr Billy Garvey, provides an evidence-based and compassionate approach to understanding the complex world of children’s mental health. Short take: From the first days with a newborn to parenting a teen, Garvey covers broad terrain in this book and offers hope, sensible advice…
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Continue reading →: ‘The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse’ by Charlie Mackesy‘Being kind to yourself is one of the greatest kindnesses’ said the Mole. This book was recently gifted to me by a dear friend. It is a story about friendships, overcoming obstacles, and growing older. Written as a series of stanzas, it recounts a conversation between four friends. There are…
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Continue reading →: ‘Peaceful Piggy Meditation’ by Kerry MacLeanAnother beautiful story by Kerry MacLean, this book introduces little kids to meditation as a way to calm a busy mind. I love the simple message of finding a peaceful place within yourself where you can go when feeling sad, angry, or overwhelmed. The story encourages kids to be present…
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Continue reading →: ‘The Art of Growing Up’ by John MarsdenIn ‘The Art of Growing Up’, author and alternative school principal John Marsden brings his experience working with children and teens to a unique book about raising and educating kids. Short take: Honest and unapologetic in his views, Marsden offers up a bold and eclectic thesis that blends elements of…
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Continue reading →: ‘Moody Cow Meditates’ by Kerry Lee MacLeanI read this book for the first time recently and found it equal parts enlightening, helpful, and funny. Following the day of Simon (aka Moody Cow), the story shows how small irritations in a day can build up to sully one’s mood and lead to angry actions. With the help…
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Continue reading →: ‘The Memory Box: A Book About Grief’ by Joanna RowlandThis thoughtful book tells the story of a young girl who worries she will forget a loved one who has died. Exploring themes of grief and continuing bonds, she creates a memory box where she collects trinkets, stories and even new memories that help her maintain connection and cope with…
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Continue reading →: ‘Unschooled’ by Kerry McDonaldIn ‘Unschooled’, Kerry McDonald advocates for a paradigm shift in how we approach education and learning. She argues against traditional schooling, instead promoting a style of home education that is child-led and emphasises curiosity, autonomy and real-world experiences. Short take: This book introduces us to “unschooling”, a form of education…
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Continue reading →: ‘The Anxious Generation’ by Jonathan HaidtDescribed as ‘the great rewiring of childhood’, this book outlines the devastating impact of smart-phone adoption on the mental health, cognition, and socialisation of today’s youth. Short Take: ‘The Anxious Generation’ describes the alarming shift from a play-based to phone-based childhood over the past two decades. It highlights how children…
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Continue reading →: ‘Too Much: An Overwhelming Day’ by Jolene GutierrezA simple story about a little girl who is finding sounds too loud, lights too bright, and her clothes too itchy or tight. This is a nice book for young kids with sensory sensitivity, which validates the experience of feeling overwhelmed and normalises the need for quiet time, personal space,…
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Hello,
I’m Lizzie
A child clinical psychologist supporting parents, teens and kids. I’m currently available for online clinical consultations. You can also read some of my book reviews, which provide an introduction to my clinical philosophy and approach.
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