This book considers the inner world of the child and argues that children are more capable than many of us realize. Babies make their needs known; toddlers can walk for miles; teenagers are equipped to make their own decisions. Children need adult support, but they do not need interference, which can damage their growth. If we learn to trust our children at each stage, they are more likely to find their own balance. The author suggests ways in which parents can break their own cycle of control, which includes judgement and punishment, coaxing and overprotection. It also considers the needs of the parents. Modern life insists that we try to cram more and more into our day; this book is about doing a little less.