Name: How to raise kids who can handle hard things
Uploaded: 2026-01-21T15:40:34Z
Duration: 16 min 44 s
Description: Could exposing kids to their fears help them thrive later on in life? Exploring the science of exposure therapy, pediatric psychologist Kathryn Hecht shows how encouraging children to handle discomfort builds confidence and resilience. Through personal stories and practical strategies, she shares the secret for raising kids ready to meet life’s challenges.

Kathryn Hecht: How to raise kids who can handle hard things

How to raise kids who can handle hard things

Could exposing kids to their fears help them thrive later on in life? Exploring the science of exposure therapy, pediatric psychologist Kathryn Hecht shows how encouraging children to handle discomfort builds confidence and resilience. Through personal stories and practical strategies, she shares the secret for raising kids ready to meet life’s challenges.

Helping children face discomfort is the foundation for lifelong confidence and resilience. Exposure therapy, like letting a child afraid of bees gradually confront their fear, works far better than constant reassurance or protection. Parenting for comfort may feel natural, but it burdens adults and teaches kids to run from hard feelings. Instead, families can build true coping skills by practicing bravery in small, everyday challenges.

Confident Kids Are Built Through Brave, Uncomfortable Moments

True confidence grows when children are encouraged to face their fears instead of being shielded from them. Exposure therapy, often involving uncomfortable or even messy moments, helps kids build real resilience. For example, a child terrified of bees learned to enjoy outdoor adventures again by gradually confronting his fear, guided by supportive adults. Rather than striving for comfort, fostering 'handleability' prepares kids for the unpredictable challenges of life.