The Self-Driven Child Book Summary

In "The Self-Driven Child," authors William Stixrud and Ned Johnson unveil the transformative power of autonomy in child development. They argue that giving children ownership over their choices fosters resilience, motivation, and mental health. Through compelling research and real-life stories, the book illustrates how relinquishing control can paradoxically lead to greater success. Parents will discover practical strategies to encourage self-direction in their children, promoting a thriving, engaged mindset. Are you ready to rethink your parenting approach and unlock your child's true potential?

By William Stixrud, PhD, Ned Johnson

Published: 2019

"Kids need to feel a sense of control over their lives."

Book Review of The Self-Driven Child

“Instead of trusting kids with choices . . . many parents insist on micromanaging everything from homework to friendships. For these parents, Stixrud and Johnson have a simple message: Stop.” —NPR “This humane, thoughtful book turns the latest brain science into valuable practical advice for parents.” —Paul Tough, New York Times bestselling author of How Children Succeed A few years ago, Bill Stixrud and Ned Johnson started noticing the same problem from different angles: Even high-performing kids were coming to them acutely stressed and lacking motivation. Many complained they had no control over their lives. Some stumbled in high school or hit college and unraveled. Bill is a clinical neuropsychologist who helps kids gripped by anxiety or struggling to learn. Ned is a motivational coach who runs an elite tutoring service. Together they discovered that the best antidote to stress is to give kids more of a sense of control over their lives. But this doesn't mean giving up your authority as a parent. In this groundbreaking book they reveal how you can actively help your child to sculpt a brain that is resilient, and ready to take on new challenges. The Self-Driven Child offers a combination of cutting-edge brain science, the latest discoveries in behavioral therapy, and case studies drawn from the thousands of kids and teens Bill and Ned have helped over the years to teach you how to set your child on the real road to success. As parents, we can only drive our kids so far. At some point, they will have to take the wheel and map out their own path. But there is a lot you can do before then to help them tackle the road ahead with resilience and imagination.

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Kids need to feel a sense of control over their lives.

The Self-Driven Child

By William Stixrud, PhD, Ned Johnson