Parent Book Recommendations for Middle School Families

The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson

Middle school is a time of tremendous growth—and sometimes confusing behavior. The Whole-Brain Child helps parents understand how the adolescent brain develops and why children may seem logical one moment and emotional the next. Using easy-to-understand explanations and practical strategies, the authors show parents how to respond to challenging moments in ways that build emotional regulation, resilience, and stronger family relationships. This book offers valuable tools for navigating the ups and downs of the middle school years while helping your child develop lifelong social and emotional skills.

How to Hug a Porcupine by Julie A. Ross

The middle school years are a time of tremendous growth—and sometimes incredibly prickly behavior. How to Hug a Porcupine helps parents understand why their sweet child suddenly becomes distant, moody, or defensive as they search for independence. Using easy-to-understand explanations and practical strategies, the author shows parents how to defuse household tension and respond to challenging moments without getting stuck in negative cycles. This book offers valuable tools for navigating the ups and downs of the tween years while helping you maintain a strong, trusting relationship with your child.