If you have teenagers or soon-to-be teenagers, run, don't walk, to get this book.....

Wendy Mogel has done it again.  The author of the sage book for parents of younger kids, The Blessing of the Skinned Knee , she has written a book for parents of teenagers called, The Blessing of the B-.  Dr. Mogel’s wisdom on this subject comes from Jewish teachings and her many years of working with adolescents and their families in her clinical psychology practice; however, her lessons are valuable for parents of any (or no) religious orientation.

In this time of helicopter parenting and seemingly high stakes everything, parents struggle with letting their kids learn hard lessons that will help them in the real world.  This book gives spot-on advice for knowing when to back off and when to step in with your teenagers' missteps.  She even gives you the words to say when your child does something that leaves you speechless.

This book is full of so many crucial points for parents who believe in self reliance and independence, yet feel pressured by society or other parents to protect and coddle in the interest of a spotless record.

Here are some of her life-changing realizations.

1. Don't equate a phase with a permanent character flaw.  Parents overreact about their children's disrespect/materialism/laziness because they fast forward 15 to 20 years in the future and see a rude, unambitious, 30-something still on the dole and living under their roof. Their children will go through wonderful and horrible phases and neither will last too long.

 2. Even though it might pain you, remember that today's disappointments will prepare your child for adult life.  Better that she or he learn how to bounce back from friendship slights or not getting the wanted part while there’s still a soft place to land.

3. Anytime you are doing something for your child that he or she can do for themselves, you are giving the message, "I don't think you are competent."  Sometimes our "help" actually "hurts."  

There are many more truths that will forever change your perspective on parenting.  I found myself nodding in agreement with so many points in this book from years of experience working with teenagers and their parents.  Since it includes a discussion guide, it would be a great choice for a parent book club.  If you're struggling with these issues, run, don't walk, to buy it.  Like so much in parenting, your kids will thank you, but only when they're grown.

For more information, go to: http://www.wendymogel.com/books/b_minus/

Kim Turner is a School Counselor with the Clarke County School District, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Highlands Affiliate. For more information, you can email her at kimturnerlpc@gmail.com or go to www.facebook.com/KimTurnerCertifiedHighlandsAffiliate