Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Child

Raising the Challenging Child Book

Proven Techniques for Raising the Challenging Child

What's the worst you've ever faced as a parent? An all-out tantrum at the mall? A son who won't take out his earbuds to listen to you? A daughter who's failing at school and won't do her homework? A teen who constantly breaks curfew? A call from the police? Whatever you're dealing with, Raising the Challenging Child will help.

Building on their work at Chaddock, a nonprofit organization that has worked with some of the most challenging kids in the nation for more than 150 years, the authors empower frustrated parents with practical tips and real-life examples on how to:

  • minimize behavioral meltdowns
  • reduce conflict
  • increase cooperation
  • promote healthy attachment
  • improve family relationships

The strategies they share work both for the child who is going through a difficult phase brought on by life, disruption, or trauma and for the child who faces chronic struggles. Parents, teachers, and those who work with children and youth will find positive, practical steps they can start taking today in order to understand and address the baffling behavior of the child under their care.

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About the Authors

Debbie Reed

Debbie Reed

PH.D.

As President and CEO of Chaddock, Debbie Reed trains, consults, and coaches with organizations on topics related to non-profit leadership, strategy, and board impact. Reed has served in leadership roles with the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services, the Alliance for Strong Families & Communities, and the United Methodist Association of Health & Welfare Ministries. Reed also maintains "Reed About Leadership," a weekly blog where she discusses topics and issues in leadership

Karen Buckwalter

Karen Buckwalter

LCSW, RPT-S

Karen is a licensed clinical social worker, Registered Play Therapist and Supervisor. She also completed a two year post-master's training program in Marriage and Family therapy at Menninger Clinic. She has worked with children and families for over 30 years.

Wendy Lyons Sunshine

Wendy Lyons Sunshine

Wendy is an award-winning writer and co-author of The Connected Child. She's an editorial consultant for leading nonprofits, and has written for Health, AARP Magazine, Scientific American, and The New York Times.

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Bonus Resources

Click on the images below to view the Study Guide and Survival Guide.

Video Lessons - Raising the Challenging Child

One chapter at a time, co-author Karen Doyle Buckwalter, LCSW, RPT-S is sharing a glimpse into the lessons from Raising the Challenging Child. Tune in as she shares real-life examples, evidence-based strategies and practical tips that parents and caregivers can use today.