Grounded
The Off-Road Guide to Parenting in an Unstable World
Dr. Michael C. Nagel & Dr. Shelley Davidow
Grounded by Dr. Michael Nagel and Dr. Shelley Davidow offers a refreshing take on parenting amid today’s pressures, addressing the importance of nurturing a resilient, balanced childhood. Rather than endorsing constant academic achievement or overscheduling, the authors encourage parents to focus on fostering an environment where children can grow emotionally, cognitively, and physiologically in harmony with their natural development. Rooted in neuroscience and psychology, this guide promotes the idea that effective parenting begins with the caregiver’s own wellbeing. By modelling stress management, parents can help children develop healthier responses to stress and build resilience, critical in today’s rapidly changing world.
The authors suggest practical ways to manage the impacts of anxiety and external pressures, including simple routines such as spending time in nature, engaging in unstructured play, and allowing moments of boredom, which can inspire creativity and self-reliance in children. For adolescents, Nagel and Davidow outline strategies for maintaining stability through hormonal shifts and other teenage stressors, supporting the notion that a secure, grounded environment is key to a healthy childhood. This book’s accessible, down-to-earth style positions it as a practical and insightful resource for parents, teachers, and leaders working with children, aiming to inspire confident, adaptable adults.
By emphasising balance over perfection, Grounded resonates with parents and educators alike who seek to create nurturing spaces that encourage children to thrive both at home and beyond.
