CAC's Mental Health Services Favorite Parenting Books

Parenting can be one of the most rewarding—and challenging—journeys, and having the right guidance can make all the difference. The following books, recommended by CAC's Mental Health Services Team, offer evidence-based, compassionate and practical approaches to raising emotionally healthy, resilient children. From understanding how a child’s brain develops to cultivating mindfulness and healing from one’s own past, these resources empower parents to build stronger, more empathetic connections with their children. Together, they provide a roadmap for parenting, supporting both parent and child in growing together with understanding and care.

1. No-Drama Discipline 

Authors: Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. & Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D. 

Description: A practical guide to discipline that builds on connection, not punishment. It

explains how to calmly address misbehavior while nurturing a child’s developing brain. Emphasizes empathy, understanding and long-term skill-building rather than quick fixes. 

2. The Whole-Brain Child 

Authors: Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. & Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D. 

Description: Explores how children’s brains develop and how parents can use this knowledge to better communicate, connect and guide their children through challenges. Offers 12 key strategies for nurturing healthy brain development and emotional regulation. 

3. Raising Good Humans 

Author: Hunter Clarke-Fields, MSAE 

Description: Focuses on mindful parenting, helping parents stay calm and respond rather than react. Combines mindfulness and self-compassion practices with practical communication strategies to break generational cycles and raise kind, confident children. 

4. Parenting from the Inside Out 

Authors: Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. & Mary Hartzell, M.Ed. 

Description: Emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in parenting. Helps parents understand how their own childhood experiences and unresolved emotional issues impact their parenting style. Encourages healing and emotional awareness as a foundation for healthy relationships with children. 

5. Integrative Parenting: Strategies for Raising Children Affected by Attachment Trauma 

Authors: Debra Wesselmann, MS, LIMHP; Cathy Schweitzer, MS, LIMHP; Stefanie Armstrong, MS, LIMHP 

Description: Designed for parents of children who have experienced trauma or attachment disruptions. Provides trauma-informed strategies to support healing, build trust and promote secure attachment. A helpful resource for adoptive parents, foster caregivers, and professionals. 

6. Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids (and Their Parents) 

Author: Eline Snel 

Description: An accessible and engaging guide to mindfulness for children ages 5–12, with practical exercises to help kids manage anxiety, improve focus and relax. Also includes tips and tools for parents to support their child's emotional well-being through mindfulness. 

7. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma 

Author: Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. 

Description: While not a traditional parenting book, this groundbreaking work on trauma helps parents reflect on how their own past experiences—particularly unresolved trauma—can shape their reactions, emotional regulation and parenting style. Encourages healing as a path toward more conscious and compassionate parenting.