Quillette Podcast Making the Case for ‘Free-Range Parenting’
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Apr 19, 2025 
Lenore Skenazy, an author and TED Talker, champions the concept of free-range parenting, calling for more independent play for kids. She discusses the societal backlash against parents who let their children explore the world alone, sparked by her own experiences. The conversation addresses the anxiety surrounding child safety fueled by media narratives and cultural shifts. Skenazy emphasizes how fostering autonomy can enhance children's confidence and enrich family bonds, urging parents to let go of their fears and encourage self-sufficiency.
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Skenazy's Subway Story
- Lenore Skenazy let her nine-year-old son ride the New York City subway alone, sparking a major controversy.
- This experience launched her advocacy for free-range parenting and gave her the title "America's Worst Mom."
Digital Contact Limits Independence
- Constant parental contact through phones replaces traditional occasional check-ins.
- This reduces kids' opportunities for independent growth and discovery away from parental eyes.
Camp Sparks Early Independence
- Lenore's husband had a girlfriend at overnight camp well before school experiences.
- Camps offer children spaces to grow, explore, and develop identities away from parental supervision.