From a Harvard faculty member and oral language specialist, an invaluable positive parenting guide that gives readers evidence-based tools and techniques to communicate more effectively with children in ways that let them foster relationships with less conflict and more joy and kindness.

Science has shown that the best way to help our kids become independent, confident, kind, empathetic, and happy is by talking with them. Yet, so often, parents, educators, and caregivers have trouble communicating with kids. Conversations can feel trivial or strained—or worse, are marked by constant conflict.

In The Art of Talking with Children, Rebecca Rolland, a Harvard faculty member, speech pathologist, and mother, arms adults with practical tools grounded in child development to help them have productive and meaningful conversations with children of all ages—whether it’s engaging an obstinate toddler or getting the most monosyllabic adolescent to open up.

The Art of Talking with Children shows us how quality communication—or rich talk—can help us build the skills and emotional intelligence children need to thrive.

Inside this essential guide, you’ll discover how to transform your family’s communication with practical, science-backed strategies:

The Science of Rich Talk: Learn an evidence-based framework developed by a Harvard-trained speech pathologist to nurture your child’s curiosity, empathy, and independence through conversation.
Toddler to Teen Communication: Get practical tools for every stage, from navigating toddler tantrums with less conflict to encouraging meaningful conversations with quiet teenagers.
Build Stronger Bonds: Move beyond trivial, strained, or difficult interactions to build more joyful and cooperative relationships with the children in your life.
Fostering Empathy and Confidence: Discover how the quality of your daily conversations directly builds the core skills and capacities your child needs to thrive long-term.