Dr. Alison’s Favorite Books

This book translates brain science into simple strategies that help kids manage emotions, build resilience, and think more clearly. Dr. Roy recommends it because it gives families and educators practical tools to understand children’s behavior while strengthening connection and emotional health.

A tender children’s story about a prickly cactus who learns that even the toughest among us need connection and care. Dr. Roy suggests it as a playful way for families to talk about emotions, boundaries, and the importance of love and acceptance.

Dr. Nadine Burke Harris explores how childhood adversity and trauma can shape lifelong health and development, while also offering hope for healing. Dr. Roy recommends it to help parents, schools, and communities understand the profound importance of safe, nurturing environments for children.

Jonathan Haidt explores how smartphones, social media, and cultural shifts are fueling anxiety and depression in today’s youth. Dr. Roy encourages parents and schools to read it as a starting point for rethinking how technology and environment shape children’s mental health.

Brené Brown reframes leadership through courage, vulnerability, and empathy, with lessons that apply in workplaces, schools, and families. Dr. Roy recommends it because its focus on trust and authenticity helps adults model the kind of relationships kids need to thrive.

This guide offers strategies for creating trauma-sensitive classrooms where students feel safe and supported to learn. Dr. Roy recommends it for educators who want to meet students’ emotional needs while also caring for themselves in the process.

Souers and Hall provide a clear framework for building strong relationships, encouraging responsibility, and supporting students’ self-regulation. Dr. Roy suggests it as a roadmap for parents and schools looking to move beyond discipline toward connection and growth.

Lori Desautels urges adults to prioritize relationships and understanding over rigid rule enforcement, grounding her approach in neuroscience and compassion. Dr. Roy recommends it to teachers and caregivers who want practical strategies for helping kids thrive through connection rather than control.

Dr. J. Stuart Ablon shows that kids often act out not because they won’t but because they can’t yet, due to gaps in skills like flexibility and frustration tolerance. Dr. Roy recommends it for its compassionate, evidence-based strategies that help parents, teachers, and clinicians replace punishment with collaboration, guiding kids toward real change and stronger relationships.

This fun, portable set of conversation cards is designed to spark meaningful and playful discussions among kids and families. Dr. Roy recommends it as a simple way to build emotional awareness, connection, and communication skills at home or in the classroom—encouraging curiosity, empathy, and genuine conversation beyond screens.

Former New Hampshire educator Dr. Brooklyn Raney shares heartfelt stories and practical insights for both parents and educators in this engaging, easy-to-read book. Dr. Roy recommends it for its clear, research-based guidance on how to build trust, strengthen relationships, and become the supportive, consistent adult every young person needs.