How to raise a thinking child: Help your child solve everyday conflicts and get along with others

What makes this parenting book unique?

Many parenting books focus on discipline or reward techniques, but Raising a Thinking Child goes further. Author Myrna Shure developed a method known as "I Can Problem Solve" (ICPS) that teaches children to solve problems themselves. Instead of giving orders, parents learn to ask questions that stimulate critical thinking. This approach not only reduces daily conflicts but also strengthens a child's self-esteem and autonomy. The method is based on decades of research and has been successfully applied in multiple educational contexts.

Benefits of teaching children to think

When a child learns to think of solutions, they not only improve their behavior but also develop key social skills. They learn to consider the feelings of others, negotiate, and make informed decisions. Parents who apply this method report fewer sibling fights and more open communication. Furthermore, these skills are fundamental for school success and future relationships. The book offers strategies that foster empathy and reduce aggression, creating a more harmonious family environment.

Key strategies you will find in its pages

The book is full of practical examples and dialogues that you can adapt to your daily life. You will learn to use questions like "What if...?" or "How do you think your brother feels?" to guide your child toward their own solutions. It also includes games and activities for children aged 4 to 7, as well as tips for handling common situations such as sharing toys, bedtime, or tantrums. Each chapter addresses a specific challenge and offers multiple alternative solutions.

How is this method applied in daily life?

You don't need to be an expert in child psychology. The ICPS method integrates easily into family routines. For example, when two children want the same toy, instead of intervening, you can ask them questions that lead them to find a mutually acceptable solution. With practice, children internalize this process and begin to resolve conflicts without help. Parents who have tried this method highlight how simple it is to implement and how it transforms family dynamics. The book encourages parents to be guides, not judges.

Differences from other discipline methods

Unlike approaches based on punishment or rewards, this book promotes autonomy and reasoning. It is not about imposing rules, but about helping the child understand the consequences of their actions. The ICPS method focuses on the thought process, not the immediate outcome. This allows children to develop lifelong skills, such as decision-making and problem-solving. Many families find that, after applying these techniques, conflicts are significantly reduced.

What do parents who have read it think?

Many parents consider this book an essential tool. Some describe it as "a must-read for any parent or uncle" and highlight that the strategies are useful even for older children with developmental delays. Others appreciate that the book offers simple techniques that empower the child to think for themselves, eliminating typical power struggles. In general, readers agree that it is a respectful and effective approach that improves family coexistence.

This book is an educational guide and does not replace professional advice. Each child is unique; adapt the strategies to their needs.