Raising a Self-Driven Child with Ned Johnson

In this empowering episode, Tara talks with Ned Johnson, co-author of The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives, about how we as parents can step back a little to help our kids step up. They dive into why giving children more autonomy and a real sense of control isn’t just helpful...it’s essential for their mental health and long-term success. Ned shares how shifting from being a “controller” to more of a “consultant” can build trust, resilience, and confidence in our kids, especially during the tricky teenage years. They also touch on the weight so many moms carry, feeling responsible for every outcome, and how taking a calmer, less anxious approach can actually create more connection. This conversation is full of real talk, relatable stories, and gentle reminders that letting our kids make mistakes is part of the journey, and that we’re doing better than we think. Links: https://theselfdrivenchild.com/