The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)

Outline

The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) (2019) focuses on the relationship between parents and children rather than on quick fixes for behaviour. Philippa Perry explains how our own childhood shapes the way we parent, and why accepting children’s feelings, repairing mistakes, and truly listening help them grow into secure adults. The book offers warm, practical wisdom for every stage of parenting.

• The book puts the relationship between parent and child first, not quick fixes for behaviour.
• Your own childhood shapes the way you parent, so understanding your emotional patterns is where change starts.
• Accepting a child's feelings, rather than dismissing them, helps children grow into secure adults.
• Mistakes are part of parenting, and repairing them with your child strengthens the bond.
• Truly listening to your child is a practical habit that builds empathy and connection at every stage.

Philippa Perry is a British psychotherapist, author, and broadcaster. She has written an advice column for a leading British newspaper and presented television and radio programmes about psychology and relationships. Her books include How to Stay Sane and The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read.