Everything We Learned from Dr. Becky Kennedy on The Skinny Confidential

Dr. Becky Kennedy—known as “Dr. Becky”—has become a go-to resource for millennial parents seeking compassionate and practical advice. Her recent appearance on The Skinny Confidential podcast was packed with game-changing parenting wisdom. From redefining parenting roles to cultivating confidence in kids, here’s what we learned. 

Stop Trying to Control Your Kid’s Behavior

One of Dr. Becky’s key messages is that parenting isn’t about behavior control but skill-building. “We often focus on getting kids to stop doing something instead of helping them learn how to handle those emotions or situations better,” she explains. Instead of seeing tantrums or defiance as “bad behavior,” she suggests viewing them as opportunities to teach coping strategies and emotional regulation.

The Concept of Sturdy Leadership

Enter what Dr. Becky calls “sturdy leadership.” This means a consistent, dependable presence in your child’s life while modeling healthy boundaries. She drops this gem: “Your child doesn’t need you to be perfect; they need you to be strong and clear.”

Boundaries as a Form of Love

Here’s a perspective shift: Boundaries are not about being punitive but about creating safety and trust. Here’s how Dr. Becky describes setting limits: “Imagine being on a flight, and the pilot turns around to ask you if they should take off or land—it would be unsettling, right? Kids need parents to be their pilots, making decisions with confidence so they feel secure.”

Try Screen-Free Dinners

Before you roll your eyes, Dr. Becky makes a compelling case for screen-free dining. “Screens take kids out of the moment,” she notes, explaining how this simple practice fosters patience, communication, and presence. “Mealtime is a perfect opportunity to practice social skills and connect as a family.”

How to Really Raise Polite Children

Instead of demanding  “thank yous,” Dr. Becky suggests a better approach: model gratitude yourself. “Kids learn best when they see you doing it,” she says. “If you thank them for something, they’ll naturally begin to understand why it matters.”

The Confidence-Building Hack Every Parent Should Know 

When building confidence, constant praise isn’t the answer (spoiler alert). Dr. Becky’s advice explains that real confidence comes from experiencing challenges and feeling supported. “It’s about showing your kids that you believe in their ability to figure things out,” she says. Gentle guidance, rather than micromanagement, helps children develop resilience and self-assurance.

Our Favorite Takeaway

As she says in the podcast, “Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present and willing to grow alongside your kids.” That’s advice we can all take to heart.

Check out Dr. Becky’s appearance on DearMedia’s The Skinny Confidential here.