1KHO 535: Why We Don’t Need to Tell Kids What to Do All the Time | Michaleen Doucleff, Hunt, Gather, Parent

In this eye-opening episode, Michaeleen Doucleff returns to The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast to dive deep into the art of fostering independence and emotional autonomy in children. She shares transformative insights from her travels around the world, revealing how different cultures empower children by encouraging initiative rather than constantly telling them what to do. Michaeleen explains how small shifts in our parenting approach—like trusting our children to contribute meaningfully to the household—can drastically improve behavior, strengthen family bonds, and promote emotional regulation.

Michaeleen discusses the importance of including children in family life and how this inclusion nurtures their sense of responsibility and belonging. From her experiences with the Maya, Inuit, and Hadza, she highlights the universal parenting practices that teach children to observe, respond, and contribute without the pressure of a chore chart or constant direction. This conversation is a must-listen for any parent who wants to build a calmer, more cooperative home while empowering their children to thrive with confidence and initiative.

Michaeleen’s Book: Hunt, Gather, Parent
Dopamine Kids Pre-order: Preorder here

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