Hard Love: How to Raise Resilient Kids

In this episode of The Dad Edge Podcast, Larry talks with self-confessed helicopter parent in recovery Daniel Nolan.

November 3, 2018 by Larry Hagner Leave a Comment

None of us likes to see our kids hurt or disappointed. We dads have the natural urge to keep them in a protective bubble, to make sure they are shielded from harm, but one of the biggest mistakes we can make as parents is to not let our kids make mistakes.

Today we have Dad Edge Alliance member Daniel Nolan on the show. He is a self-confessed helicopter parent in recovery and the creator of the Hard Love Project. Helicopter parenting is when we hover over our children to make sure nothing bad happens to them.

We’re all guilty of this at times, but Daniel tells us how to raise resilient kids by challenging them to step out of their comfort zone and exposing them to life. He also talks about how we can design regular emotional, social, and physical challenges for our kids to boost their confidence and independence.

Links

Hardlove Project Facebook Page

Hardlove Project Facebook Group

Resources

Grab a copy of The Dad’s Edge AUDIOBOOK on iTunes or Audible

Originally published on The Good Dad Project

Photo courtesy of author

About Larry Hagner

Hey there! My name is Larry Hagner, Founder of the Good Dad Project.

I am not a psychologist. I am not a counselor in family dynamics. I don’t have any accolades behind my name.

I am like you.

I have an awesome wife and 3 amazing boys (Ethan-8, Mason-6, and Lawson-11 months).

I am an everyday dad trying to do the best job I possible. I strive to be the best version of myself so I can guide my kids to be the best version of themselves.

My story and passion for being a father is a bit unique.

I grew up virtually in “fatherless environment” for most of my life. In fact, I didn’t meet my real father until I was 30 years old. As fate would have it, our paths crossed when he walked into a coffee shop eight years ago. I am happy to say we have a great relationship now and spend a great deal of time together.

It was really through my own childhood struggles that I realized my true passion for being a Dad.

When my first son was born, I had a huge wake up call.

I realized that I really didn’t have a blueprint or reference point from my own childhood to draw from. I didn’t feel up to the task. I was terrified about being a New Dad. I was terrified to fail to as a Father.

Driven by the fear of failure and knowing the true pain of not having a father growing up, I immersed myself into self-improvement, healing, and being a Dad with Purpose On Purpose. I have learned a lot along the way, and I am happy to say I have a lot to share. I am far from being a perfect Dad. I make mistakes every day.

But…being a Good Dad is not about being perfect. It’s about being the best version of yourself so you can guide your kids to be their best verision of themselves.

My mission is ensure Dads have the tools and resources to be their absolute best.

Expect My Best,

Larry Hagner
Author, Speaker, and Founder of The Good Dad Project