What Children Need to be Happy, Confident and Successful

It is rare that a book makes me smile from the outset, but the upbeat and positive energy that is conveyed in Jeni Hopper’s book is infectious. Positive psychology is the basis of an approach to promote wellbeing in children that is growing in popularity. This book will be seen as providing a sound basis for both justifying the approach and providing many materials and resources for practitioners.

The book consists of two sections. The first sets out the theory and framework of positive psychology and the Flourishing Programme, including the nature of wellbeing. It ends with a useful questionnaire for assessing strengths and areas for growth in children. The second part describes the programme in detail. The recommendations are always sensible, sound, practical and linked to the theory.

The book will offer excellent support for parental training courses, although these would need to be offered by experienced practitioners whose understanding of the theory includes more knowledge than included in the text.

If this book occasionally strays into somewhat evangelistic prose, its positive messages are joyous to read and will provide a sound foundation for those working to promote wellbeing in children.  

Reviewed by Dr Christopher Arnold, educational psychologist