To say that today’s generation of children are growing up in a completely different world than a few decades ago is an understatement. The prevalence highly advanced technology, social media in particular, is among the key differences that previous generations never faced. Consequently, today’s parents are dealing with new challenges as well. Luckily for us, Craig A. Knippenberg, licensed social worker and educational consultant is here to provide resources in his book Shame-Free Parenting.
Book
Shame-Free Parenting: Building Resiliency in Times of Hardship, Guns, and Social Media provides parents with practical tips to help raise resilient children in the face of today’s unique challenges. More specifically, in a world where social media is available in the palm of their hand, increased gun violence, and the most recent pandemic of COVID. These are issues that previous generations of parents have no experience with – so who do we turn to for help? Whether it’s setting boundaries with video gaming or guiding children towards their potential, parents will find helpful, evidence-based tips on how to approach specific scenarios in a healthy and productive manner.
Review
Knippenberg provides valuable information while simultaneously reassuring parents that they just have to be “on this side of good enough.” He doesn’t force his tips down our throats. He approaches these serious issues in an organized step-by-step format while reminding parents that yes, parenting is hard. But yes, we can do it and do it well. Structure and open communication goes a long way in raising today’s children.
My biggest takeaways are that it’s okay to lose it sometimes, and to stop comparing yourself to “momfluencers” who seem to have it all together and look flawless while doing it. Personally, I’m always worried if I’m doing a good enough job as a mom of two young boys. But Knippenberg’s tips on video gaming, volunteering, internet use, and facing uncontrollable circumstances like gun violence and COVID have undoubtedly given me a guide to ensure that my kids grow up to handle life’s problems in their own way.
Craig A. Knippenberg joins the Cantina Book Club Podcast to expand on the key points in his book and other advice that might help parents who struggle to raise resilient children. Keep an ear out for the episode and pick up a copy of Shame-Free Parenting today!
