“Help! I’m an Overprotective Parent (and I Know It)”

You know the drill: your kid sneezes and you’re Googling rare tropical diseases. They climb a jungle gym and you’re already calculating ER wait times. If this sounds familiar, welcome to the club—you're an overprotective parent. And guess what? That’s not a bad thing… unless it starts holding your child back.

Being protective is rooted in love. But when it morphs into hovering, micromanaging, or shielding your child from every bump and bruise, it can stifle their confidence and independence. So what can you do when your instincts scream “protect!” but your brain whispers “let them grow”?

Start small: Let your child take age-appropriate risks. Whether it’s walking to a friend’s house or ordering their own meal, these little moments build resilience.

Reframe your fears: Instead of asking “What if something goes wrong?” try “What if this helps them grow?”

Talk it out: Share your concerns with other parents or a therapist. Sometimes just voicing your worries helps you see them more clearly—and rationally.

Educate yourself: Read up on child development. Understanding what your child is capable of at each stage can ease your anxiety.

Remember your goal: You’re not raising a child—you’re raising an adult. Every step toward independence is a win.

You’ll always be their safety net, but you don’t have to be their shadow. Letting go (just a little) doesn’t mean you love them less. It means you trust them more. And that’s the greatest gift you can give.

So breathe. Step back. And watch them soar. You’ve got this.