Just One

The New Science, Secrets & Joy of Parenting an Only Child

Description

Discover why having one child is not only a preferred family size, but also a most enriching path to creating a thriving, happy family.

Drawing from groundbreaking new research and interviews with over 100 families, renowned psychologist Susan Newman, Ph.D. dismantles the outdated myths about only children while providing a roadmap for confident parenting decisions. Whether you're contemplating your family's size or already raising an only child, this authoritative guide addresses the most pressing concerns:

  • Is one child right for me? Am I being selfish?
  • No sibling: Am I cheating my child?
  • What are the benefits of being an only child?
  • Why the "selfish, lonely only" stereotypes no longer hold up
  • How to raise a well-adjusted, compassionate only child
  • Is caring for aging or ill parents too much for one child?

More and more families are embracing the solo child with little to no pressure from family and friends to have another. The one-child family has become desired in the U.S. and worldwide in developed countries. China, England, Korea, France and Canada have already been labeled “one-child nations.”

Just One explores the striking changes in cultural norms and personal challenges driving the popularity of the one-child family: from women starting families older and the high cost of raising children to women wanting to work and climate change concerns.

Written by one of America's leading parenting experts who has been featured in Psychology Today, The New York Times, and NPR, Just One offers evidence-based strategies for nurturing competent, independent only children. This timely guide speaks to a new generation of parents who are redefining what makes a perfect family size.

Reviews

"A thoughtful, unapologetic exploration and celebration of the one-child family. With her decades of expertise and hundreds of interviews with only children and parents of only children over the years, Susan Newman is uniquely attuned to the concerns and the delights of this increasingly popular family type."
 

Bella DePaulo, PhD, author of Single at Heart: The Power, Freedom, and Heart-Filling Joy of Single Life

"What a relief for any parents shamed, blamed, or worried about having one child. This should never have been a cause for comment or fear, but it was. Thank goodness this book puts the myths to rest, with facts and friendliness. (And why do people always want to tell other parents what they "should" be doing, anyhow?)"
 

Lenore Skenazy, President of Let Grow, author of Free-Range Kids

"One and done, or unsure? Susan Newman redefines what it means to be a family with one child today. She takes any stress or worry out of the equation by delivering thoughtful answers to those struggling 'on the fence' and indispensable suggestions to those wanting to raise a compassionate, content, and independent only child."

Guy Winch, PhD, psychologist, author of Emotional First Aid

"Just One is a supportive, science-backed, insightful guide that underscores the unique strengths of only children while addressing common concerns. With her characteristic warmth, Susan Newman dismantles the stereotypes and offers reams of actionable and empowering advice. A must-read for anyone seeking to embrace the possibilities and joy of raising an only child!
 

Phyllis L. Fagell, licensed therapist, school counselor, author of Middle School Matters: The 10 Key Skills Kids Need to Thrive in Middle School and Beyond and Middle School Superpowers

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