What are the essential parenting and mindfulness resources that have helped me and my clients?
I have to admit it was a challenge to narrow this list down just ten. But, without further ado, here you go:
1. Parenting From The Inside Out by Daniel J. Siegel and Mary Hartzell
Daniel Siegel and Mary Hartzell show us that parenting is truly an inside job. This book shows us – through brain science, research, and stories – that the best predictor of a child’s well being is a parent’s self-understanding. You’ll learn how issues from your past can (and will) come up as a parent and how to work with it. This is absolutely a must-read!
2. Parent Effectiveness Training by Thomas Gordon
P.E.T. is like a master-class in skillful communication. Inside we learn why the ways we’ve been communicating with our kids can cause resentment and how to talk instead. P.E.T. will help you let go of guilt and have a happier, more cooperative relationship with your child.
3. Zen Parenting Radio Podcasts
Todd and Cathy Adams are a dynamic duo that make learning about conscious parenting fun. They are often silly, but they go deep, pointing us to greater self-understanding. This podcast will bolster you each week and be a powerful support for your mindful parenting journey.
4. Real Happiness by Sharon Salzburg
This is an ideal support for your own mindfulness and lovingkindness practice. For beginners and experienced meditators alike, Sharon cuts through with down-to-earth language, making meditation accessible and easy to understand. It also comes with guided meditation audios! This book is sure to inspire you.
5. Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne
While Simplicity Parenting can be a little bit out there (he recommends no screen time before the age of seven), this book is truly a gem. Kim successfully argues against the culture of overwhelm for kids. This book will inspire you to simplify for your child and yourself, and I promise, you won’t regret it.
6. The Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali Tsabari
Dr. Shefali’s first book is really eye-opening! If you are ready to go deep in your understanding of parenting, read The Conscious Parent. I had moment upon moment of “Aha!” while reading this. It made waves for a reason. Absolutely check it out.
7. How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
You MUST have this book on your bookshelf. It has similar conscious communication techniques to Parent Effectiveness Training, but in a simplified format. With cartoon examples, How To Talk is a great easy reference.
Tara Brach is the author of two great books, Radical Acceptance and True Refuge, but the genius of her teaching comes out in her podcasts, which are recordings of her weekly dharma talks. She deeply understands the nature of how we suffer and is dedicated to relieving that suffering. She goes deep, but also peppers her talks with funny anecdotes. Be sure to listen!
9. Peace Is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh
Thich Nhat Hanh is the zen master responsible for translating mindfulness to western audiences. This book is a great introduction to his accessible, humanistic teachings on peace and mindfulness. Have this by your bedside for a comforting read before you sleep.
10. Ready, Set, Breath by Carla Naumburg – practicing mindfulness with children
My community always asks me about sharing these mindfulness practices with kids, and Carla’s book is perfect for that. Carla’s writing is down-to-earth and accessible. You won’t find any woo-woo here! Yet, she tells it like it is. This book is packed full of great ideas that you will love.
Okay, that’s it! These resources have been life-changing for me. I hope they will serve you just as much.
Now it’s your turn.
What books and resources do YOU love? Start the conversation in the comments below.
With warmth & lovingkindness,
Hunter Clarke-Fields
Bio: Hunter Clarke-Fields, MSAE, RYT, is a mindfulness mama mentor. She coaches over-stressed moms on how to cultivate mindfulness in their daily lives. Hunter is a certified Parent Effectiveness Training teacher and has over 20 years of experience in yoga & mindfulness practices. She has taught thousands worldwide. Hunter is the creator of the Mindful Parenting course. Click here to learn more and get free resources.