Interview with Lenore Skenazy of Let Grow and Free-Range Kids

Lianne Castelino of Where Parents Talk speaks to Lenore Skenazy, President of Let Grow and Founder of Free-Range Kids about parenting during the pandemic, helicopter parenting and other topics.

Skenazy's 2008 New York Sun column entitled, "Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone," grabbed the headlines in North America, leading to her establish the Free-Range movement.

Takeaways:

• Lenore Skenazy discusses the importance of independence and resilience in children, especially post-pandemic, emphasizing the need for children to engage in self-directed activities.
• The podcast highlights the cultural shift towards overprotection, which often leads to anxiety and a lack of confidence in kids due to excessive supervision and structured activities.
• Parents are encouraged to recognize and challenge societal norms that promote helicopter parenting, urging them to allow their children more freedom to explore and learn from their experiences.
• Lenore's organization, Let Grow, aims to document and promote children's independence through simple initiatives that encourage kids to undertake tasks on their own, ultimately fostering their growth.

Links referenced in this episode:

• letgrow.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Let Grow
• Free Range
• Parents Magazine