Ep 153: How to fostering autonomy in our children, with Ned Johnson, co author of "The Self-Driven Child"

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Episode 153 with Ned Johnson, co-author of 'The Self-Driven Child'  discusses the importance of giving children autonomy and control over their own decisions. He explains that a low sense of control is the most stressful thing a person can experience and can lead to anxiety and other negative outcomes. Johnson emphasizes the need for parents to shift from protecting their children to helping them protect themselves, allowing them to develop problem-solving skills and resilience. He also highlights the importance of being a "non-anxious presence" in our children's lives.  To help them, consider playing the role of a "consultant" and validating children's feelings, rather than immediately jumping in to solve their problems. 

 Ned Johnson is an author, speaker, and founder of PrepMatters, an educational company providing academic tutoring, educational planning, and standardized test preparation.   Ned coaches clients to manage their anxiety, and find the motivation to reach their full potential.  In 2006, Ned co-authored the book Conquering the SAT: How Parents Can Help Students Overcome the Pressure and Succeed, which tackles the outsized role anxiety plays in standardized testing. With Dr. William Stixrud, Ned co-authored The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives and “What Do You Say?: How to Talk With Kids to Promote Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home”.  Aa sought-after speaker and teen coach on study skills, sleep deprivation, parent-teen dynamics, and test anxiety, and his work is featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, BBC, and many others. 

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

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