A Mind of their Own

This is a really helpful, encouraging and practical book that I wish I'd had when I was parenting teenagers! Meticulously researched and referenced, it manages to be both thoughtful, perceptive and up to the minute yet accessible and realistic too. Yes, there's plenty of research referred to but there's plenty of personal experience and examples from ordinary life too. You'll find helpful activities and action points, and a light touch through the cartoons and writing style. And the title makes it clear that this is written for the time we're all walking through now, in a tentatively post-pandemic world, where so many certainties have been challenged and there has been plenty of opportunity for fears and anxieties to run riot. Highly recommended, and likely to become a much valued resource. - Inspire Magazine ; Katharine draws on the experiences of a vast range of parents and children, so readers will be sure to recognise issues that reflect their own families. When children struggle, parents can feel overwhelmed, guilty and desperate. Katharine carefully achieves a non-judgmental and encouraging tone throughout that will instil confidence and hope in parents going forward. There are many pearls of wisdom, particularly in relation to the times we are living in. This book will help parents to take perspective on the best ways to communicate with and respond to their children, often in contrast to what their natural instincts may be. At the end of each chapter, there are action points which are very practical and achievable, as well as suggested activities and a 'zip it' section, highlighting what not to say. It is relevant to all age groups, but would be best read as early as possible. It is much better to be mindful and prepared for what your children may encounter before they get there. In a sea of parenting books, A Mind of their Own stands apart as one that is especially relevant and helpful in these times and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Sarah Harding, Herald Magazine, Summer 2021