Summary Parenting experts, Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto, explore the importance of fostering independence in children and adolescents, emphasizing the need for parents to gradually increase their expectations and responsibilities. They discuss how building life skills, encouraging problem-solving, and allowing children to navigate challenges contribute to their self-esteem and mental health. They highlight the significance of modeling resilience and the ability to cope with discomfort, ultimately preparing children for adulthood.  Takeaways Building independence in children starts with small responsibilities. Changing expectations as children grow is crucial for their self-esteem. Life skills like laundry can foster a sense of capability. Encouraging children to solve their own problems boosts their confidence. Parents should model problem-solving behaviors for their children. Experiencing discomfort is essential for children's growth. Over-scheduling can hinder children's ability to cope with challenges. Allowing children to navigate social situations builds resilience. It's important to involve children in household tasks to lighten parental burdens. Parents should not give up on fostering independence, even when it's challenging. Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSFFacebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!