They are the skills that give children the ability to focus on their goals so that they can learn more easily and communicate what they've learned. These aren't the kinds of skills that children just pick up these skills have to be fostered. For each of these skills, Galinsky shows parents what the studies have proven, and she provides numerous concrete things that parents can do-starting today-to strengthen these skills in their children. In Mind in the Making, Ellen Galinsky has grouped this research into seven critical areas that children need most: (1) focus and self control (2) perspective taking (3) communicating (4) making connections (5) critical thinking (6) taking on challenges and (7) self-directed, engaged learning. They don't cost money, and it's never too late to begin. The good news is that there are simple everyday things that all parents can do to build these skills in their children for today and for the future. These are the 'essential life skills' that Ellen Galinsky has spent her career pursuing, through her own studies and through decades of talking with more than a hundred of the most outstanding researchers in child development and neuroscience. But in spite of this overwhelming amount of information, there is very little research-based advice for parents on how to raise their children to be well rounded and achieve their full potential, helping them learn to take on life's challenges, communicate well with others, and remain committed to learning. There are hundreds of books that give parents advice on everything from weaning to toilet training, from discipline to nutrition.

'What kind of person do I want my child to be?'

Get Out! by Judy Molland