If you’ve ever wondered whether all the hovering, scheduling, and constant “keeping kids safe” might actually be increasing your child’s anxiety, you’re not alone.
In my latest episode, I sit down with Lenore Skenazy, founder of Let Grow and author of Free-Range Kids, to explore how giving children more independence can help them become calmer, more confident, and more capable. Research shows that when kids are allowed to explore, problem-solve, and take age-appropriate risks, their confidence rises and anxiety decreases.
Lenore explains how modern over-supervision and over-scheduling can unintentionally send kids a message that the world is dangerous and that they aren’t capable, which fuels stress. Her Let Grow approach focuses on small, intentional steps toward independence, not neglect or hands-off parenting, but teaching real-world skills that build competence and resilience. This method helps kids learn to trust themselves and develop emotional strength.
Two key Let Grow initiatives stand out: Free Play Fridays, where schools provide space for unstructured, kid-led play, and Friendship Clubs, which offer a low-pressure environment for children to socialize and build emotional intelligence. Both programs encourage creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving, skills often limited by over-scheduled activities and constant adult direction.
A major theme in our conversation is helping kids develop an internal locus of control: the belief that they can influence their own lives. Lenore shares that when children are given small freedoms, they gain confidence, independence, and the emotional resilience they need to thrive.
This episode is a must-listen for any parent who wants to support their child’s growth without burning themselves out in the process.
