The Blessing of a Skinned Knee

Using Jewish Teachings to Raise Self-Reliant Children

By: Wendy Mogel Ph.D.

Narrated by: Carrington Macduffie

Length: 8 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

All parents hope their child will be self-reliant, optimistic, and well mannered, but this has become particularly challenging in our current culture. Clinical psychologist and Jewish educator Wendy Mogel distills the ancient teachings of the Torah, the Talmud, important Jewish thinkers, and contemporary psychological insights into nine blessings that address key parenting issues. She covers realistic expectations for each child, respect for adults, chores, mealtime battles, coping with frustration, developing independence and self-control, and resisting over-scheduling and over-indulgence.

The Blessing of a Skinned Knee guides us toward effective, enlightened parenting in an increasingly speedy, material, and competitive age.

©2001 Wendy Mogel, Ph.D. (P)2007 Blackstone Audio Inc.

Critic reviews

"Although she clearly draws on Jewish teachings, as well as on her psychology training, much of her wisdom is applicable to families of all faiths." (Library Journal)
"Her thoughtful observations consistently illuminate and reassure. Impassioned, lyrical, and eminently practical, this inspiring volume is a real treasure." (Publishers Weekly)

a window into valuable parenting perspective

I finished this book with new knowledge of Judaism, actionable ideas of how to improve as a parent, and a sense of calm to not take myself so seriously.

Great Parenting & Life Advice!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Wendy Mogul and have already started to put some of her lessons to use with my own young children!

amazing perspective on children's upbringing

who can't benefit from this unique approach to dealing with children? rooted in tradition 1000 of years old and absolutely relevant today. brilliant.

Wisdom for all parents

Wonderful wisdom for the family (not just about raising children) no matter your religion. Bring God into your family .

A lot to unpack!!!

Not being Jewish or religious at this point in my life I was a little dubious about what would be offered and how I would be able to implement the strategies provided. My doubt was misplaced, while faith provides the framework, the author provides very real and very actionable ways to improve your relationship with your kids and be a better human overall!

A huge benefit, even for an atheist like me!

Very insightful and thoughtfully written; I wish I'd read this when I was younger, really!

Parent help!

I am not Jewish and I learned so much from this book. Practical tips with examples. Read with a peaceful voice that help this anxious mama stay calm. Highly recommend

Catholic-Loved it!

I was looking for a book to help me find a way to get my kids to do chores and came across this book. It was wonderful! As faithful Catholic I related to the religious aspect of this book. I recommend it to all parents-especially those who tend to be “softies”. I really wish I would have read this book years ago when my children were younger. Outstanding advice.

Awesome Read for Parenting

The principles in this book are foundational building blocks for parenting in the 21st century. I highly recommend reading for parents and those planning to be parents.

refreshing reminder!

Common sense stuff, but this book serves as a refreshing reminder of raising kids to be honorable citizens, not necessarily the super competitive, perfect-in-all person. Mogel mentioned that we cannot 2nd guess what skills kids will need in 20 years ([mine]just as 20 yrs ago, people didn't guess the importance of today's software engineering). So it maybe fruitless trying to raise kids to be super-generic, super-competitive beings while missing the "amazing show of childhood". On the otherhand, qualities such as honesty, good work ethics have serve people well for centuries in literally every field of arena.