Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Raising resilient children helps them build self-confidence and equips them with the skills to navigate life’s challenges. Dartmouth Health Children’s pediatrician Susanne Tanski, MD, MPH, shares how parents can foster resilience throughout childhood.

What is Resilience?

Resilience is the ability to cope with adverse experiences, big or small.
Children face daily stressors and need to build resilience to cope with them.
Personal attributes like adaptability, perseverance, and self-reliance contribute to resilience.
These attributes can all be strengthened.

How can parents help build resilience in their kids?

Building resilience starts with a loving and strong foundation from parents.
Model resilience and show empathy when children face challenges.
Help children "right-size" problems and not overreact to small issues.
Avoid taking over problem-solving and instead support children in finding their own solutions.
Emphasize your child's success in overcoming challenges to reinforce resilience.