Seven step program for parents who want to develop their child s optimal potential without stifling their core personality, independence and natural ability to mature answering the question what should I do and what should I not do. * Practical parenting tips for helping children develop the social and emotional skills they need to become capable, confident, and caring people. Chapters include: Tempering Perfectionism, Building Connection, Developing Motivation, and Finding Joy. Note to the Reader. Acknowledgments. Introduction: Rethinking Potential. 1 Tempering Perfectionism: What Is Good Enough? Michael: Focusing on flaws. Kirsten: Deflecting blame. Sam: Avoiding activities at which he doesn't excel. Angela: Feeling inadequate. 2 Building Connection: How Does Your Child Reach Out to Others? Andrew: Seeking an audience rather than a friend. Clay: Avoiding joining the group. Amalia: Feeling rejected by peers. 3 Managing Sensitivity: How Does Your Child Handle Criticism, Conflict, and Disappointment? Mario: Perceiving betrayal. Jessica: Balking at constructive feedback. Samir: Chafing at a change of plans. Collin: Shouldering the world's woes. 4 Handling Cooperation and Competition: How Does Your Child Fit in a Group? Steven: Insisting on his way. Anita: Being a sore loser. Misha: Fearing competition. Craig: Dealing with competition in the family. 5 Dealing with Authority: How Does Your Child Respond to Those in Charge? Lisa: Being blind to authority. Nicholas: Making everything an argument. Stephanie: Fretting about adults' anger. 6 Developing Motivation: What Matters to Your Child? Ethan: Avoiding schoolwork. Jared: Complaining that schoolwork is boring. Diane: Not applying herself in school. 7 Finding Joy: What Makes Your Child Feel Happy? Monica: Finding fault instead of fun. Conner: Searching for personal meaning. Conclusion: The Pressure to Perform Versus the Power to Grow. Selected References and Recommended Reading. About the Authors. Index.