Argues that current parenting trends that emphasize early learning through memorization and repetition are actually harmful for children, stifling their creativity and preventing them from learning basic problem solving skills and focuses on the importance of letting children play and have fun and understanding the learning experiences offered through creative, unstructured, independent play.

The plight of the modern parent -- Brainchild: how babies are wired to learn -- Playing the numbers: how children learn about quantity -- Language: the power of babble -- Literacy: reading between the lines -- Welcome to Lake Wobegone: the quest to define intelligence -- Who am I? Developing a sense of self -- Getting to know you: how children develop social intelligence -- Play: the crucible of learning -- The new formula for exceptional parenting.