A Fresh, Fun Guide to Raising Great Kids
Are you a Christian parent longing to raise confident, resilient kids who love God — without the stress of dry, step-by-step parenting manuals? Meet Setting Parents Free, the book that blends humor, 35 years of clinical psychology experience, and sound Biblical wisdom to help you thrive as a parent — even when bath time turns into a dumpster fire!
Dr. John Cox, a clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience, has worked with countless parents through his outpatient practice as well as at parenting conferences across the country. He believes parenting should be an enjoyable relationship, not a burden. In Setting Parents Free, he shares relatable stories from his own parenting journey, his clinical work, and his faith, showing you how to give your kids what they need to become whole adults — and how even your failures can deepen your bond with them.
Dr. Cox’s Story: A Lesson in Grace
In Setting Parents Free, Dr. Cox opens up about a moment early in his parenting journey when he lost his temper with his young kids. They broke something valuable even after being told to not play with it - and he blew his stack. But instead of guilt tripping himself for failing, he used the moment to model humility — apologizing to the kids and owning how he had been scary in his reaction. The kids still got consequences but, Cox realized that relating to his kids out of that kind of “love and limits,” taught his little rascals more about grace, love, and wisdom than any lecture ever could. This book is filled with stories like these, showing how our imperfections as parents can become powerful teaching moments for our kids.
How This Book Is Different
Unlike other parenting books that leave you feeling overwhelmed with rigid rules and unrealistic expectations, Setting Parents Free offers a refreshing approach. Dr. Cox combines his clinical expertise with a deep understanding of Biblical principles, creating a guide that’s both practical and deeply rooted in faith. He doesn’t just tell you what to do—he shows you how to be the parent your kids need, even when you mess up. With humor woven throughout, this book feels like a conversation with a wise friend who’s been there, not a lecture from an unattainable “perfect parent.”
What You’ll Discover Inside:
- Teach your kids about love: Learn how to model and foster a deep, Christ-centered love that shapes their hearts for a lifetime. Dr. Cox shares practical ways to show love in everyday moments, from bedtime prayers to resolving sibling squabbles.
- Guide them in obedience: Discover how events and experience can “teach” your kids to obey, helping them learn wisdom as well as radically reducing the back and forth nag-fest that disciple can often become.
- Help them navigate pain and failure: Equip your children to face life’s challenges with resilience, ensuring unresolved pain doesn’t hold them back. Dr. Cox provides tools to help kids process disappointment, like the time his daughter didn’t make the soccer team — and how they turned it into a moment of growth.
- Build strength and resilience: Raise kids who can stand firm in their faith and values, even in a world that tests them. Learn how to encourage perseverance through small, everyday challenges.
- Instill values and a connection to God: Be a guide in their spiritual journey, helping them know and love God in a personal, meaningful way. Dr. Cox offers tips for how to teach your kids about their savior in ways that are personal and even fun.
- Turn parenting missteps into opportunities: Learn how to use your failures to teach grace, humility, and love, strengthening your relationship with your kids. Dr. Cox shows how a forgotten promise can become a lesson in forgiveness.
Wisdom That Resonates
What Parents Are Saying
"This book was a game-changer for our family. Dr. Cox’s stories made me laugh and cry, and his advice helped me see that I don’t have to be perfect to be a good mom. My kids and I are closer than ever!"
"I’ve read a lot of parenting books, but this one stands out. It’s practical, faith-filled, and so encouraging. I especially loved the chapter on teaching kids to deal with pain — it’s helped my son through some tough moments"
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this book only for Christian parents?
While Setting Parents Free is written from a Christian perspective and includes Biblical teachings, the practical advice and psychological insights are valuable for any parent looking to raise resilient, loving kids.
Will this book work for parents of teens, or is it just for younger kids?
Dr. Cox addresses parenting at all stages, from toddlers to teens. He even includes specific advice for engaging teenagers, like learning how listening to their hearts can multiply your chances for obedience.
I’m a busy parent — will this book take a lot of time to read?
Not at all! Setting Parents Free is written in a conversational, easy-to-read style. You can dip in and out of chapters as you have time, and the practical tips can be applied right away.
Ready to Transform Your Parenting Journey?
With Setting Parents Free, you’ll discover how to raise great kids while enjoying the process — and giving yourself grace along the way. Whether you’re a new parent or navigating the teen years, this book will equip you with the tools, wisdom, and encouragement you need.
