Why Strong-Willed Kids Are So Hard to Parent (and Why They’re Amazing)

Why Strong-Willed Kids Are So Hard to Parent (and Why They’re Amazing)

From The Peaceful Parenting Podcast by Sarah Rosensweet

March 16, 2026 · 9 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the unique traits of strong-willed kids and offers strategies for parents to better connect with them.

Strong-willed kids can be some of the most challenging — and the most incredible — kids to parent. In this bonus mini-episode, Sarah and Corey talk about what makes strong-willed kids unique, why they can feel so hard to parent in everyday moments, and why their determination, honesty, and sense of justice are traits to be celebrated. They also discuss how small shifts in how we communicate with strong-willed kids can dramatically reduce power struggles while preserving connection. If you’re parenting a child who pushes back, refuses to be bossed around, and stands firmly in their beliefs, this conversation will help you see their strengths and learn how to work with their temperament instead of constantly fighting against it. Sarah also shares details about her upcoming workshop on parenting strong-willed kids. You can find the workshop at https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com/workshop 00:00 — Strong-willed kids: a blessing and a challenge Why Sarah and Corey both love working with strong-willed kids. 01:00 — What makes strong-willed kids special Their sense of justice, independence, and willingness to question authority. 02:00 — Why strong-willed kids can make everyday…

People in this episode

Host: Sarah Rosensweet

Guest: Corey

Topics covered

  • strong-willed kids
  • parenting challenges
  • communication strategies
  • child temperament
  • power struggles

Keywords

  • strong-willed kids
  • parenting
  • communication
  • power struggles
  • child behavior

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Reimagine Peaceful Parenting

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