Table of Contents
Foreword Sissy Goff 11
1 Traps and Tricks Getting emotionally stuck is common for boys. Learn what traps them and how to help them find new plays or "trick shots" to get unstuck. 15
2 Foundation and Definition Learning regulation skills and building emotional muscles is foundational work. Defining our role in this work as parents is equally important. 26
3 Backward and Forward Helping boys develop an interior life and strong psychological immune system is key. Learn how to help boys move out of the blame-to-shame swing and into healthy ownership. 43
4 Anxiety and Depression Understand the unique ways anxiety and depression present in boys and adolescent males. Learn practical skills to help boys navigate fear, sadness, and anger. 61
5 Moms and Dads Consider the unique roles each parent plays in a boy's growth and development. Identify the ingredients he needs unique to your gender. 83
6 Friends and Allies Develop a better understanding of what upside-down kingdom living looks like in a boy's life and friendships. Identify three different layers of relationships. 106
7 Models and Mentors Define wisdom and identify the voices that impact your life for good as a parent and those in the life of your son. 121
8 Upward and Outward Explore what upward and outward living means and how it contradicts the phrase "man up!" Practice exercises that create concrete upward and outward experiences for boys. 135
9 Habits and Practices Help boys build a framework for physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual health. Discover an easy blueprint for building habits and practices. 150
Conclusion: Moving Forward 173
Acknowledgments 185
Notes 188