ParentShift: Ten Universal Truths That Will Change the Way You Raise Your Kids

by Wendy Thomas Russell, Linda Hatfield, Ty Hatfield

Stuck in a cycle of time-outs, bribes, and constant power struggles? ParentShift offers a proven way out — and a lasting way forward.

Drawing on decades of experience and the latest child-development research, authors Linda Hatfield, Ty Hatfield and Wendy Thomas Russell reveal ten universal truths that explain why children behave the way they do — and how you can respond in ways that nurture cooperation, confidence, and lifelong resilience.

With practical tools, real-life examples, and a respectful approach, you’ll learn how

Calmly handle tantrums and emotional outburstsSet clear, age-appropriate boundaries without threats or bribesReduce sibling rivalry and build harmony at homeRaise kids who think for themselves and respect othersReplace punishments and rewards with strategies that actually workWhether you’re parenting a toddler or a teen, ParentShift gives you the framework to create a connected, trusting relationship with your child — one that grows stronger through every stage of life.

409 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 13, 2025

About the author

Wendy is an award-winning journalist and author. She spent the bulk of her career as a news reporter, writing about criminal justice and special projects. Since leaving newspapers in 2008, most of her work has focused on writing for and about children. She authored three books for the Girl Scouts of the USA — including MEdia and BLISS — which advocate media literacy while keying teenage girls into their own strengths and aspirations. The books were published in December 2010. Her latest nonfiction project, Relax, It’s Just God, was borne out of her experience as a nonreligious mom trying to introduce her daughter to religion in a healthy, open-minded and honest way. She lives in Southern California with her husband and daughter.