Staff Reports
In an era where overprotection often stifles children’s growth, one Utah mother, Stephanie Read, made headlines by allowing her 7-year-old son, Wells, to order dinner from Chick-fil-A on his own. Inspired by Jonathan Haidt’s insights on fostering independence in children, this small but significant act of trust has sparked a broader conversation about parenting in modern America. The event wasn’t just about a chicken sandwich; it was a lesson in courage, responsibility, and the value of self-reliance.
Armed with cash and a rehearsed plan, Wells confidently walked into the restaurant while his mother waited anxiously in the car. For many parents today, this might seem like an extraordinary leap of faith. After all, the prevailing culture often emphasizes constant supervision and fear of worst-case scenarios. Yet Wells emerged triumphant, meal in hand and beaming with pride. His success wasn’t just a personal victory but a testament to the benefits of allowing children to face manageable challenges without parental intervention.
This story highlights a growing divide in parenting philosophies. On one side are those who believe in shielding children from every conceivable risk, often at the expense of their independence and problem-solving skills. On the other hand are parents like Read, who understand that controlled exposure to real-world tasks builds resilience and confidence. Haidt’s observation that American children are often overprotected offline but left vulnerable online underscores the misplaced priorities of modern parenting. Wells’ experience serves as a reminder that the physical world is far less dangerous than many fear and that most people—like the Chick-fil-A staff—are willing to support kids stepping out on their own.
Critics of Read’s decision have voiced safety concerns, reflecting the pervasive anxiety that dominates parenting today. However, such fears often ignore the reality that overprotection can hinder a child’s development far more than a carefully supervised challenge ever could. By teaching Wells how to handle potential scenarios and trusting him to succeed, Read demonstrated what true parental guidance looks like: preparing children for independence rather than perpetuating dependence.
This simple act of letting a child order dinner has resonated with millions online because it taps into something deeply American—the belief in self-reliance and individual growth. As society grapples with how best to raise the next generation, stories like Wells’ remind us that fostering independence isn’t just good for kids; it’s essential for preserving the values that make our nation strong. If we want resilient adults tomorrow, we must start by giving children like Wells the freedom to take small but meaningful steps toward independence today.
