This week, Kaity & Adriane chat with Lenore Skenazy, author of "Free-Range Kids." You might have heard her called "America's Worst Mom." But don't let that moniker fool you! Lenore's journey from her kid's controversial subway ride to becoming a leading voice in child independence is nothing short of remarkable. In Episode 30 of The KindlED Podcast, we dive deep into the world of free-range parenting with the woman who started it all. This episode also explores: 🔥 the importance of independence and autonomy in children 🔥 why allowing kids to engage in real-world tasks isn't just good; it's essential for their development 🔥 Let Grow's initiatives, including the intriguing 'Independence Therapy for Anxious Children' 🔥 the role of unstructured play in a child's development and success 🔥 how educators and parents can collaborate to foster environments that promote independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills 🔥 and so much more! So, buckle up for an enlightening episode that challenges conventional parenting norms and lights the way to raising resilient, independent kids.  ABOUT THE GUEST: After her newspaper column "Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone" created a media firestorm, Lenore got the nickname "America's Worst Mom." (Google it!) She went on to write Free-Range Kids, the book-turned-movement. Lenore has lectured everywhere, from DreamWorks to Microsoft to Harvard Med School -- and the Bulgarian Happiness Festival! (For real.) You may have seen her on TV on The Today Show, The Daily Show, or her reality show, World's Worst Mom. Now, Lenore is co-founder and president of Let Grow, the nonprofit promoting childhood independence and resilience. She lives in New York City with her husband and beloved computer. Her children are gainfully employed. (Phew!) And, for the record, she used to write for Mad Magazine. Yep -- Mad!!! Check out these links: Let GrowThe Let Grow Experience (a free independence-building curriculum for teachers/schools)The Let Grow Play Club (free implementation guide for schools, YMCAs, churches, synagogues, etc., to create a "free play" program for kids)Independence Therapy Manual (free manual for therapists and counselors on how to use independence to combat or prevent childhood anxiety)🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments. Powered by Prenda, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning today. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. ✍️ GOT A BURNING QUESTION? ✍️ We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to [email protected]. Let's dive into the conversation together! 🔗 IMPORTANT LINKS 🔗 🔥 Want more KindlED content? 💙 Connect with us 💌 Subscribe to The Sunday Spark 💙 Interested in starting a microschool? 💙 Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today ➡️ Start My Microschool