The Scaffold Effect

January 1, 2021
Renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist Koplewicz (It's Nobody's Fault, 1996) shares what he and his team of experts at the Child Mind Institute, which he founded, have determined as the "sweet spot" between permissive and controlling parenting. In an era when children's mental health is a public health crisis, Dr. Koplewicz recognizes that parents don't always know where to look for advice on how to help their children. "Scaffold parenting" uses the metaphor of the child as the building and the parents as the scaffold that surrounds it, providing support and structure without inhibiting the child's growth. Koplewicz goes on to explain that the "pillars" of the scaffold are structure, support, and encouragement, and the "planks" are patience, warmth, awareness, dispassion, and monitoring. Through real-life anecdotes filled with intelligence, empathy, and a touch of humor, Koplewicz gives readers ten strategies to build this scaffold. From "secure yourself first" to "draw a new blueprint" to "stay on their level" and "support unconditionally," parents will have the tools to raise resilient, confident, and capable children. The Scaffold Effect reminds caregivers that it is never too late to help your children become the best versions of themselves, which is all any parent can hope for.

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