The 3 Books You Need to Read if You Have a High School or College Student

Raising and guiding high school and college students comes with its own unique set of challenges and joys. As parents and educators, we want to empower our teens and young adults to develop the skills they need to thrive, not just academically but in life. To do that effectively, it’s important to understand the tools, strategies, and perspectives that can support them in this pivotal stage of growth. Here are three powerful books I recommend for parents and educators who want to build a deeper connection with their students and guide them toward their full potential.

1. “Smart but Scattered Teens: The ‘Executive Skills’ Program for Helping Teens Reach Their Potential” by Richard Guare, Peg Dawson, and Colin Guare

Developing executive functioning skills is essential for a student’s success, yet it doesn’t always come naturally. That’s where Smart but Scattered Teens comes in. This book is a go-to resource for parents and educators aiming to help their teens develop key skills such as planning, organization, and emotional regulation. The authors, who are experts in neuropsychology and learning, offer research-backed, step-by-step strategies that make it easier for parents to support their teen’s growth without hovering.

As an academic coach, I see the importance of fostering independence and resilience in students, and this book perfectly aligns with that mission. It empowers parents to become effective partners, helping their teens bridge the gap between potential and performance. The actionable advice and real-world examples make it easy to integrate these strategies into daily life, setting teens up for long-term success. Grab the book HERE.

2. “10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation—And Making Your Own Life Easier” by  David Yeager

Motivating young people can sometimes feel like trying to solve a riddle with constantly changing answers. That’s where Tim Elmore’s 10 to 25 steps in. This book is an insightful guide for parents, educators, and leaders who want to understand the psychology behind what drives teens and young adults. Elmore’s approach is rooted in research and experience, making it practical and relatable for anyone who works with youth.

As an academic coach, I highly recommend this book because it breaks down the science of motivation in a way that is easy to digest and apply. It helps parents shift from using external motivators to fostering intrinsic motivation, which is more sustainable and effective in the long run. The result? Young adults who are more driven to take ownership of their goals and who feel empowered rather than pressured. This book is a roadmap for nurturing a positive, supportive environment where your teen can thrive while you navigate the journey with a little more ease and confidence. Link to purchase it here!

3. “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” by Jonathan Haidt

Anxiety and mental health struggles among teens and young adults are more prevalent than ever, and John Duffy’s The Anxious Generation takes a hard look at why. The book examines the various societal, technological, and parenting changes that have led to an increase in mental health challenges in young people today. Duffy doesn’t just highlight the problem; he offers solutions and strategies for parents and educators to create a balanced, supportive environment that fosters emotional well-being.

As someone who works closely with college students, I’ve seen how anxiety can impact not just academic performance but overall happiness and resilience. This book provides essential insights into how parents and educators can recognize the signs of anxiety and implement proactive measures to support their teens. The strategies in this book help to nurture resilience, build strong coping skills, and guide teens toward better mental health, which is essential for their success now and in the future. Check the book out here.

Why These Books Matter

Whether you’re preparing your teen for college or supporting them through their first year on campus, having a deeper understanding of how to guide them can make all the difference. Each of these books provides practical tools and actionable advice that you can start using immediately. They will help you foster the skills and mindsets needed for your teen’s academic, emotional, and personal growth.

As your academic coach, I encourage you to invest in your own growth as you guide your high school or college student. By doing so, you’re not just supporting their journey—you’re strengthening your bond and empowering them to become the best version of themselves.

Which of these books will you be reading first? Let me know in the comments, and let’s continue this journey of learning and growth together!