Book

I wrote Critical Connection for middle-school parents who worry that their kids are slipping away from them. It helps them understand these turbulent years and know when to step in, when to step back, and what to watch out for. It is about screentime and smartphones, social lives and social media, how to encourage self-control and self-confidence, and how to guide kids towards career paths that will meet their needs and match their strengths.

Critical Connection teaches parents how to build healthy families their 10-14-year-olds can rely on for safety, guidance, and unconditional love. There is an accompanying workbook, too.

Below is a sample of Andy speaking in an interview with Charlie Brennan of KMOX radio in St. Louis during his book launch:

I just finished reading Critical Connection. I can tell this is going to be a valuable resource now and as my daughters grow — I actually underlined a powerful insight on every single page of the book! Andy uses his own life experiences, as well as his experiences as a teacher and administrator, to help parents meaningfully connect with kids—even through the most difficult teen years. I have read a lot of parenting books, and this is one of the best. I will recommend it to everyone I can.”  –  Rachel Macy Stafford, author of Hands Free Mama.

“When your kids hit middle school, it’s time to make sure they learn responsibility along with independence. That can require parents’ patience, prayers, and perhaps a peek at this very book!”  –  Lenore Skenazy, author of Free-Range Kids

“Andy Kerckhoff’s book is a must-have tool that every mom and dad should get to help them navigate those tumultuous years. It’s the best resource I have read in three decades!”  –  Ward Wiebe, Director of K-West camp for boys and girls ages 12-14