Are You Snowplow Parenting? When Helping Your Kids Too Much Hurts Them - Episode 37

March 17, 2026
00:00 37:16
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Summary:

Parents naturally want to protect their kids from disappointment and failure—but sometimes our help can actually get in the way of their growth. In this episode, Shaunti and Jeff talk about the growing trend of “snowplow parenting,” where parents try to clear every obstacle out of their child’s path. Through stories, research insights, and practical wisdom, they explore how well-meaning parents can unintentionally prevent their kids from learning resilience and responsibility. You’ll hear why allowing natural consequences can actually be a gift—and how to support your kids without removing every challenge in front of them.

For Parents Only

https://shaunti.com/2024/05/how-to-stop-being-a-snowplow-parent-part-1/

https://shaunti.com/2024/05/how-to-stop-being-a-snowplow-parent-part-2/

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/16/style/snowplow-parenting-scandal.html

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Meet Your Host
Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn are best-selling authors, popular speakers, and internationally-renowned social researchers. Nearly twenty years ago, this average couple stumbled over some things they didn’t “get” about each other. They have been using their analytical backgrounds to help other semi-confused couples decode each other ever since.

Both with graduate degrees from Harvard, Shaunti and Jeff are the authors and co-authors of many groundbreaking books, such as For Women Only, For Men Only,  The Kindness Challenge, and When Hurting People Come to Church.

For more from Jeff and Shaunti, visit www.shaunti.com.
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