ATTENTION: I have a pretty big announcement in the introduction of this episode. Don’t miss what’s coming next on Pardon the Mess!

Raising confident, resilient kids starts with helping them believe they are capable.

In this episode, Sissy Goff and David Thomas—therapists and authors of Capable—share insight on how to help children build the confidence and resilience they need to face challenges. Drawing from decades of counseling experience, the conversation explores what it means for kids to develop a deep belief in their ability to do hard things and navigate adversity.

We talk about the importance of allowing kids to experience discomfort, why stepping back can actually help them grow, and how everyday moments can build confidence and emotional strength.

This episode is a helpful reminder that our kids are often more capable than we realize—and that giving them space to struggle can be one of the greatest gifts we offer.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Personal Stories of Capability

03:02 Understanding Anxiety in Children

05:56 The Role of Parents in Building Capability

08:53 Balancing Support and Challenge in Parenting

11:46 Real-Life Examples of Capability in Children

15:00 Encouraging Capability in Teenagers

17:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Courtney DeFeo