Lenore Skenazy, a former newspaper columnist turned author, became known as the “worst mom in America” for allowing her 9-year-old son to ride the subway alone. This incident led her to champion the free-range parenting style and start the “Let Grow” movement, which encourages parents to give their children more independence in activities like walking to school or playing in the park.
In a recent interview, Skenazy discussed the importance of free play for children’s development, highlighting the link between lower independence and higher anxiety. She emphasized that independence is crucial for raising happy and well-adjusted children, suggesting that giving kids more freedom can help combat anxiety.
Skenazy also talked about the Let Grow after-school play clubs, where children are encouraged to engage in unstructured play with minimal adult intervention. These play clubs aim to create a space where kids can interact, play, and learn important social skills like empathy and cooperation.
The Let Grow Experience, a homework assignment that encourages children to try new activities on their own, is another initiative by Skenazy to empower kids and parents alike. By allowing children to take on new challenges independently, parents can instill confidence in their abilities and foster a sense of empowerment.
In the age of technology, Skenazy stressed the importance of balancing screen time with real-world experiences. She highlighted the value of free play in intellectual development, emphasizing that activities like problem-solving, creativity, and innovation are best learned through hands-on experiences rather than digital platforms.
Ultimately, Skenazy believes that by giving children more freedom and opportunities for free play, parents can help them develop essential life skills, build confidence, and form meaningful connections with their peers. The Let Grow movement advocates for a return to a more hands-off parenting approach that prioritizes independence, creativity, and social interaction among children.
