How to Raise Kids That Can Handle Any Challenge

Melinda Wenner Moyer is an award-winning contributing editor at Scientific American and a regular contributor to the New York Times. Her work explores the intersection of science and everyday life. She is a former faculty member at NYU’s Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute.

What’s the big idea?

The parenting trends of today are not setting up our kids for success. Overprotection, control, and perfectionism are causing more problems than they are worth. Research suggests better ways to connect with and guide your children—ways that serve their futures, and the future of society.

Below, Melinda shares five key insights from her new book, Hello, Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times. Listen to the audio version—read by Melinda herself—below, or in the Next Big Idea App.