Resourcefulness isn’t something children are simply born with — it’s nurtured through trust, exploration, and emotional connection. Beneath every capable adult lies something much deeper — resourcefulness. It’s the skill that allows children to adapt, problem-solve, and persevere when faced with uncertainty.
We spoke with child development and parenting experts on Hearth's After School panel to explore why raising resourceful kids may be one of the most important things parents and caregivers can do — and how small, intentional moments can help build a foundation that lasts a lifetime.
”Executive functioning is one of the strongest predictors of lifelong success. Supporting it early helps children thrive in every area of life.”
— Lauren Fouche, executive functioning skills expert
”Resourcefulness isn’t just about solving problems — it’s about cultivating trust, resilience, and the confidence to navigate a complex world. When children learn to connect with their emotions and adapt to challenges, they’re better equipped to care for themselves and to show up for others.”
— Callie Christensen, Co-Founder/ Chief Brand Officer of Slumberkins
Parents shape the next generation. What children see at home influences who they become and how they build their own families.
—Dr. Morgan Cutlip, mental load and emotional labor expert
”Kids learn from what they see and feel. Teaching them to trust their own inner voice prepares them for anything that comes their way.”
—Kelly Oriard, Co-Founder & Chief Therapeutic Officer of Slumberkins
”Resilience is a lifelong skill, and starting early is fundamental to so many aspects of social-emotional learning: frustration tolerance, empathy, self-confidence, grit, and more. Resilient children become resilient learners, adults, and leaders. Resourcefulness builds confidence, empathy, and lifelong growth.”
— Emily Greenberg, President & Co-Founder of Joy, a modern parenting club
”It's important for kids to develop critical thinking skills and a growth mindset by giving them opportunities to make decisions and learn from their mistakes. Making mistakes is part of being human.”
—Devon Kuntzman, PCC, certified toddler parenting coach
”Resourceful children grow into confident, self-sufficient adults.”
—Rachael Yates, Ph.D., child and adolescent neuropsychologist
”Resourcefulness empowers children to think creatively, adapt, and explore the world with confidence. When children learn to use what’s around them with curiosity and intention, they build a deep sense of agency and resilience that will guide them throughout the ups and downs of life.”
— Saachi Dhingra, Co-Founder & CEO of Sachi, a platform that helps educators and families collaborate
Raising resourceful children is about more than fostering independence; it’s about helping them develop the confidence to navigate life’s inevitable ups and downs with courage and compassion.
When we model curiosity, allow mistakes, and encourage creative problem-solving, we give our children something far greater than answers—we give them the ability to find their own. Because the greatest gift we can offer our kids isn’t a map of the world, but the inner compass to explore it.
