The Learning Habit: A Groundbreaking Approach to Homework and Parenting that Helps Our Children Succeed in School and Life

How can your child possibly get all her homework done, and how can you get her away from that iPad? Three authors—a psychotherapist, a pediatric psychologist, and a neuropsychological educator who are all parents—have compiled a guide that bamboozled moms and dads will welcome. The book lists eight essential skill sets that parents should help children cultivate, from time management to fostering self-reliance. An especially useful chapter focuses on ways to help children concentrate. The authors gently remind parents that they need to model skills for their children—if mom is always texting as she walks, her daughter will follow suit. The authors also insist that parents are not at the mercy of teachers, standardized tests, or cultural pressure: “We are the ones who must determine the quality of our children’s lives.” This volume, which is based on a three-year study—the largest survey of family routines ever conducted—is chock-full of examples from real families sorting through tough parenting decisions and provides valuable counsel. (Aug.)