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Book Review: The Whole-Brain Child

The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson is an all-in-one parenting book that talks about different strategies to nurture your child’s developing mind, survive everyday parenting struggles and help your family thrive. 


The book is not just for parents but for anyone doing the crucial work of raising, supporting and nurturing kids. 


So let’s review The Whole-Brain Child! 


The book starts by highlighting the crucial role the brain plays in every aspect of a child's life, from discipline and decision-making to self-awareness and relationships.  


It explains that the brain is divided into the left (logical) and right (emotional) sides, and everything that happens to children while growing can affect the way both sides develop. 


It would interest you to know that children develop brain connections through their everyday experiences like interactions with their parents, caregivers and friends. 


The book also talks about brain integration, and helps you understand that a 7-year-old does not have the brain maturation of a 12-year-old and will not have it for several years. The book also highlights how everyday moments can influence how well your child’s brain grows towards integration. 


Let's take a quick look at the 12 strategies that can help you understand how to integrate different parts of the brain.


Connect and Redirect

This strategy focuses on connecting with your child emotionally before trying to address behavioural issues. Connect with a child first empathetically, before redirecting their behaviour.  


Name It to Tame It

This involves helping children label their emotions to manage them better, by leveraging the act of storytelling as a parent. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that aids in emotional regulation. 


Engage, Don’t Enrage

Instead of reacting to misbehavior with anger or frustration, this strategy emphasizes engaging with your child in a way that is constructive and nurturing. 


Use it or lose it

Here, we want to regularly engage children’s ‘upstairs brain’ through problem-solving, decision-making, and other cognitive exercises. 


Move It or Lose It

Physical movement can help children manage their emotions and calm down. This strategy highlights the connection between physical activity and emotional regulation. 


Use the Remote of the Mind

Revisit positive memories with children to reinforce learning and growth.  


Remember to Remember

This strategy talks about helping your child recollect facts from an event to help develop their brain. Make recollection and storytelling a regular part of family life. 


Let the cloud of emotion roll by

Help children understand that emotions, even difficult ones, are temporary. 


SIFT

This strategy encourages parents to teach children to pay attention to their Sensations, Images, Feelings and Thoughts to improve self-awareness. 


Exercise Mindset

The goal is to foster a sense of balance and control over their emotions, helping them navigate the ups and downs of daily life with greater resilience. 


Increase the Family Fun Factor

Schedule regular quality time and fun activities to bond as a family. 


Connection Through Conflict

Teach Kids to Argue with a “We” in Mind.


The Whole-Brain Child is a game-changer in the world of parenting books. While the book offers invaluable insights, it’s important to note that no single book can cover all aspects of parenting. Some readers may find that the strategies require adaptation to fit their unique family dynamics.  


However, the book provides a solid foundation for any parent looking to foster a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment for their child.  


Whether you’re a new parent or have years of experience, this book will inspire and equip you to raise happy, healthy, and resilient children. 


Don’t forget, we’re here to help you in your parenting journey with your children as you support them on their academic journey.

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