A Harvard faculty member and oral language specialist provides adults with evidence-based tools and techniques to help them have productive and meaningful conversations with children of all ages. Science has shown that the best way to help our kids become independent, kind, and happy is by talking to them-- yet we are at a loss on how to have meaningful conversations. Rolland reveals that a great conversation has a double benefit: helping adults and kids connect better in the moment, an boosting children's learning and well-being for years to come. Here she shares a methodology for quality conversations that will make you feel more confident as a parent. -- adapted from back cover

What rich talk is, and why we're missing out -- Conversations for learning: Sparking your child's lifelong curiosity -- Conversations for empathy: Fostering your child's understanding of others -- Conversations for confidence and independence: Encouraging your child to embrace challenges -- Conversations for building relationships: Cultivating your child's social skills -- Conversations for -- and through -- play: Promoting your child's joy and creativity -- Conversations for openness: Raising a global citizen -- Conversations for temperament: Bringing out your child's best -- The lasting value of rich talk.