Living in Barcelona has transformed my parenting style from overprotective to embracing independence for my child. In Spain, children play freely in nearby playgrounds, allowing parents to socialize while kids sort out conflicts independently. Schools foster this independence early through multi-day trips, which initially worried me but ultimately proved beneficial. Spanish social norms support children taking risks, and studies reveal that American overprotectiveness often leads to learned helplessness in kids. Although my son sometimes resists chores, his independence gives him agency, illustrating the value of trusting children to navigate their environment.
The contrast with the US is striking. Half of the parents of kids ages 9 to 11 won't even let their children go to another aisle in a supermarket alone.
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