Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, and Energetic

In this fourth edition of her perennial bestselling book, Dr. Mary Sheedy Kurcinka utilizes her deep experience to address the pressures previous generations of parents didn’t have to consider. Her empathy and effective advice are exemplified in the introduction of her new and easy to apply Spirited Child Approach, which nurtures the entire family.

The Spirited Child Approach helps parents understand their child and their own inborn temperament while focusing on three simple, but vital concepts—calm, connect, and coach—to help their family thrive. Research- and strength-based, yet honest, Raising Your Spirited Child speaks to parent burnout and, in a helpful and supportive manner, offers solutions to that exasperated question, “How am I supposed to stay calm and connect with my child when I’m just trying to survive the moment?”

What’s new in this edition?

The Spirited Child Approach • : This groundbreaking methodology focuses on three key concepts—calm, connect, and coach—offering practical tools to handle the most stressful situations. Structure as Prevention • : Discover how structure and routine can help avoid meltdowns and create a more peaceful home. Tech-Savvy Parenting • : Addressing the impact of screen time and social media on both kids and parents, Kurcinka provides actionable advice on managing screen use while nurturing relationships. The Power of Sleep • : This edition prioritizes sleep for the whole family, offering simple, effective strategies for getting everyone the rest they need to thrive.

Even fans of the previous editions of this book will find tons of brand-new information and skills—updated with Dr. Mary’s latest findings after close to a decade of additional experience as a parenting coach, and for the challenging age of parenting in the age of smartphones and social media.

© 2025 HarperAudio (Audiobook): 9780063413788

Release date

Audiobook: 2 September 2025