TEDx Talk: How to raise kids who can handle hard things

*Photo by Carter Kenneth for TEDxMinneapolis, 2025*

““Could exposing kids to their fears help them thrive later on in life? Exploring the science of exposure therapy, pediatric psychologist Kathryn Hecht shows how encouraging children to handle discomfort builds confidence and resilience. Through personal stories and practical strategies, she shares the secret for raising kids ready to meet life’s challenges..””

I was invited to give a TEDx talk at the 2025 TEDxMinneapolis event, Life Rewritten, where I spoke about brave parenting and what actually helps anxious kids build real confidence.

TED selected the talk as an Editor’s Pick, and chose to feature it on the TED Talks Daily podcast—an honor I’m deeply grateful for. It’s meaningful to see this message, grounded in science, clinical practice, and real-life parenting, recognized as one worth spreading.

Watch here: go.ted.com/kathrynhecht

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.