Guide to Parenting Resources: Books, Websites, and Support for Parents of Challenging Boys

Navigating the complexities of parenting a challenging child can be overwhelming, but with the right resources, parents can feel empowered and supported. Below is a curated collection of essential books and websites to guide parents through different aspects of parenting, from managing behavior to emotional coaching and understanding educational needs. These resources will equip you with valuable tools to support your child’s growth and development.

Recommended Reading for Parents of Challenging Boys

J. Timothy Davis – Challenging Boys (Rowman & Littlefield, 2025)

An essential resource for parents navigating the unique and often overwhelming challenges of raising boys with challenging behaviors. Grounded in cutting-edge research on child development and enriched with real-world examples, this book provides actionable strategies to help parents build stronger relationships, foster emotional resilience, and guide their sons towards facing life’s challenges with resilience.

Ross Greene – The Explosive Child (HarperCollins, 1998)
A must-read for any parent raising a child who struggles with frustration and flexibility. Ross Greene’s The Explosive Child introduces the Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) method, which helps children develop better frustration tolerance and emotional regulation. This book provides a clear, compassionate approach to understanding why children act out and how to address the underlying issues with empathy and structure.

Alan Kazdin – The Kazdin Method for Parenting the Defiant Child (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2008)
This resource provides step-by-step instructions for creating effective reward programs for solving many types of challenging behavior problems with kids of all ages.

John Gottman – Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child (Simon & Schuster, 1998)
Dr. John Gottman’s approach focuses on helping parents tune into their child’s emotions. This book emphasizes the importance of emotion coaching—a technique that helps parents respond appropriately to their child’s emotional needs while still setting clear limits. By learning to navigate their child’s feelings, parents can foster emotional intelligence, which is essential for healthy child development.

Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish – How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk (Scribner, 1980)
This timeless classic provides a practical guide for parents seeking to improve communication with their children. Faber and Mazlish’s insights into child psychology and effective communication strategies make this book invaluable for fostering understanding and cooperation with your child.

Peg Dawson & Richard Guare – Smart but Scattered (Guilford Press, 2009)
For parents of children who struggle with executive functioning, Smart but Scattered provides actionable strategies that help children develop the necessary organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills they need to thrive.

Peter Wright & Pamela Wright – Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy (Harbor House Law Press, Inc., 2023)
For parents navigating the special education system, this guide is essential. Wrightslaw explains the process of securing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for children who need academic accommodations. It breaks down the legalities, explains parental rights, and provides detailed instructions on how to advocate for the services your child needs.

General Resources Useful to Parents of Challenging Boys

ADDitude Magazine
A rich resource for parents of children with ADHD, ADDitude Magazine provides expert advice, practical strategies, and support for families facing behavioral challenges related to attention and hyperactivity.

Understood.org
Offering tailored support for parents of children with learning and attention issues, Understood.org gives valuable insights and tips for managing challenging behaviors, advocating for educational needs, and improving family dynamics.

Resources for Emotion Coaching

Gottman Institute – Parenting Section
The Gottman Institute’s parenting resources provide tools and research-backed strategies for parents to foster emotional intelligence in their children.

Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) Resources

Lives in the Balance – CPS Materials
Created by Ross Greene, this resource provides in-depth materials to help parents implement the Collaborative Problem Solving approach. The website offers worksheets, guides, and other helpful tools to support the CPS model in managing challenging behaviors.

CPS Connection
Another great resource for parents using the CPS model, CPS Connection offers training, resources, and articles on how to apply the Collaborative Problem Solving method effectively in daily life.

Think:Kids
Think:Kids provides a wealth of resources for parents and professionals interested in Collaborative Problem Solving. Their materials cover everything from basic CPS concepts to advanced techniques for handling particularly challenging behaviors.

Resources Related to the IEP Process

Wrightslaw
If your child is struggling at school and you suspect an IEP might be necessary, Wrightslaw provides a comprehensive guide to the IEP process. This site explains how to navigate the educational system and advocate for your child’s needs in a structured way.

Finding a Therapist

Psychology Today Therapist Finder
The tool allows parents to search by location, specialty, and other filters to find the right professional to support their child’s needs.

American Psychological Association Locator
The APA’s locator tool helps parents connect with licensed psychologists who can provide guidance and therapy services. Whether you need support with behavior management, emotional regulation, or developmental challenges, this tool is a reliable resource.

These resources represent just a few of the many tools available to help parents of challenging boys. Whether you are seeking books on behavioral strategies, emotional coaching, or navigating special education services, these recommended reads and websites offer practical guidance and expert advice. By taking advantage of these resources, you can provide your child with the support they need to thrive, while also empowering yourself as a confident and knowledgeable parent.