Ten things I wish you knew about raising boys

by Dr Billy Garvey

'Dr Billy Garvey is a gift to this world! I know I'm a better parent because of his work.' Steph Claire Smith

'A courageous, evidence-based and deeply impactful book that can change the course of a boy's life.' Dr Emily Musgrove

We all want our sons to grow into kind, capable and emotionally healthy men. But right now, many parents are worried about their boys: about anxiety, anger, withdrawal and the pressures of growing up in a world full of confusing messages about masculinity.

With over twenty-five years' experience working with families, developmental paediatrician Dr Billy Garvey wants to reassure anyone with a boy in their life that there are many powerful ways we can support them throughout childhood. By understanding our boys' behaviour, we can respond with confidence, boundaries and connection.

Whether your son is a baby, toddler or teen, this compassionate, practical book will help you raise boys who feel safe, seen and understood, and who grow into emotionally strong, connected men.

Genres: Nonfiction, Parenting

Audible Audio

Published September 22, 2026

Reviews

[Deirdra]

I am going to be evangelical about this brilliant Australian book - as soon as I finished it I ordered multiple copies to give to friends with young sons.

Dr Billy is such a special person and clinician. He gives heartfelt, practical and research-based advice illustrated with anecdotes from his own childhood and those of boys he’s worked with in his clinic. I feel more empowered to support my son growing up with healthy masculinity and life skills, and how to better approach boys in mental distress presenting to ED.

Anyone with sons and/or working in education or healthcare should read this hopeful and accessible book. Highly recommend his podcast ‘Pop Culture Parenting’ too!

[Emily Coles]

Started off listening to this on Spotify- narrated by Billy himself and so much emotion in some of the stories he tells. Then ran out of listening hours so grabbed it from the bookshop as I couldn’t wait to finish it up. So many great takeaways as a mum and teacher.
Whilst there is so much talk about domestic and gendered violence, this book actually feels like a proactive tool to implement with boys at all ages, right from birth. It consolidates some of our parenting and teaching strategies but also challenges a lot. I do feel that we can do better because this book ensures we know better.

[Marita]

Another brilliant book by Billy. His heart and genuine care for the work he does is so clear in this book. As a mum of two boys whose greatest desire is to raise kind caring sons, this was a great read (also as a social worker working with the more pointy end of some of these issues). It's a great length, not overly long but clear great information. The research and info is folded within client stories which makes it a much easier read. Will be recommending to all my friends, and families I work with.

[Nicki]

Absolutely exceptional! Not just for parents of boys - a must read for everyone. Love how Dr Billy Garvey weaves stats, stories and science all together.