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The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives

Empowering children through autonomy, motivation and brain science for long-term resilience and success.

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The Self-Driven Child by Dr William Stixrud and Ned Johnson presents a compelling case for giving children more control over their own lives. Based on decades of clinical experience and neuroscience research, this guide helps parents understand how autonomy supports motivation, mental health and performance in school and beyond.

🔹 Backed by Brain Science: Explains how the stress of feeling powerless affects cognitive function, emotional regulation and behaviour.

🔹 Practical Tools for Parents: Offers strategies to create a home environment where children can make decisions, solve problems and learn from mistakes.

🔹 Balanced Approach: Guides parents to offer support without over-controlling, helping kids develop confidence and a sense of responsibility.

🔹 Addresses Common Struggles: Covers issues like homework resistance, technology use, anxiety and academic pressure with practical, respectful solutions.

🔹 Conversation Starters: Includes scripts and phrasing to help parents shift from command to collaboration.

This empowering book is ideal for parents, educators and caregivers who want to nurture independent, motivated children who are equipped for life’s challenges.