"I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make them think." --Socrates

Imagine a parenting book that doesn't tell parents what to do, but teaches the art of self-discovery using the same methods parents can use to encourage their children's growth and learning. As an experienced language teacher, trial attorney, and parent, I am writing a book inspired by Socrates, Plato's teacher.

Socratic Parenting: Playing with Plato focuses parents on the need to examine their own values and goals in order to select wisely from the overwhelming assortment of parenting tools available in this information age. Parents must know themselves and be themselves to raise their children with confidence and consistency. Socratic Parenting is organized around the universal ideals of Life, Liberty, and Happiness. The first section explores Life using the acronym W.I.T., which stands for Wisdom, Integrity, and Truth. The second section examines Liberty through the acronym A.C.T. (Accept, Create, Try), and the final section pursues Happiness through the acronym T.A.G. (Thoughts, Actions, Growth).

As in Plato's writings, Socrates plays a central role by engaging in dialogues with the Parent to offer insight into what it means to be a Good Parent. The dialogues are interspersed throughout the 250-page book, and Socrates introduces himself to the reader in a foreword written in the first person. Most parents aren't going to read The Complete Works of Plato or Xenophon's Memorabilia, Oeconomicus, Symposium, and Apology either. Most parents would be in a much better position to discipline consistently, however, if we spent more time on determining and following our own personal philosophies than on reading how-to books and looking for quick convenient fixes.

So that's my mission: To make the philosophy of Socrates accessible to parents in a format that's enjoyable to read. Check out what's here now, and come back again soon! Please send feedback and questions to:Laurie@SocraticParenting.com

For more information on the book click on the "Play w/Plato" section of this website. If you're interested in reading actual chapters AND providing feedback to me, please e-mail me using the link above.

Click on "Meet the Author" above for updates on my other writing projects.  Click on "Socratic Solutions" for information on speaking engagements and private consulting. 

Thanks for your support!