New book provides techniques for raising kids today

Parents will have a new parenting skills reference guide with the release of University of Houston-Clear Lake Associate Professor of Psychology Sharon K. Hall’s book, “Raising Kids in the 21st Century: The Science of Psychological Health for Children.” Hall will be signing the book during the university’s “Celebration of Women’s Studies” on Thursday, Oct. 16, 6–7p.m., in UH-Clear Lake’s Alfred R. Neumann Library, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston.

“I think that psychological research has great utility for parents but, in the past, we hadn’t translated this research so it could be beneficial for families,” explained Hall. “Providing this research in a way that can be used by any parent was my impetus for writing this book.”

Published in September 2008, “Raising Kids in the 21st Century” offers ideas, techniques and examples of how parents can work with their children to ensure they develop as independent, emotionally healthy adults. Major topics Hall covers in this book include cognitive growth; how belonging to a family promotes social growth; peer relationships; transmitting values to children; and tolerance and social activism.

Hall believes it is crucial that parents embrace the seriousness of developing a true sense of tolerance and social activism in their children.

“Parents need to understand that raising children who realize the importance of giving back to their community is a crucial parenting responsibility,” said Hall. “Not only is it their responsibility but it is truly doable. Through ‘Raising Kids in the 21st Century,’ I give parents the tools to accomplish this and all the other character traits I discuss.”

Though Hall hopes that parents will begin working to create trusting relationships with their children when they are very young, she does believe it is never too late to start.

“Parents shouldn’t think that it’s too late to develop the kind of behaviors I’m writing about because their child is a teenager,” explained Hall. “Parents can begin modeling trustworthy behaviors, community activism and their core values at any time. Modeling for children and teens is the best teaching tool that psychology has to offer to parents.”

“Raising Kids in the 21st Century: The Science of Psychological Health for Children” is available in both hardback and paper cover at local and national booksellers.

Sponsored by the UH-Clear Lake Women’s Studies program, this event will also include a collection of school supplies, non-perishable food, clothing and other items for Hurricane Ike relief.

Parents are welcome to bring children to the event and book signing. For more information, call 281-283-3365.

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