Family & Relationships Friday Fix: 13 Things Strong Kids Do How Parents Can Help Kids Build Mental Strength Right Now By Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief Updated on April 09, 2021 Print Verywell / Julie Bang Every Friday on The Verywell Mind Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, shares the “Friday Fix”—a short episode featuring a quick, actionable tip or exercise to help you manage a specific mental health issue or concern. Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts Friday Fix: Episode 63 When we talk about mental strength, we often think about adults who need mental muscle to get through tough times, like job loss or a relationship issue. But the truth is, people of all ages need mental strength. In fact, kids need mental strength more than ever right now. The pandemic has been rough on everyone, especially kids. Our Verywell Mind survey found that 80% of parents say their kids are struggling with at least one of the 13 things I discuss in my new book: 13 Things Strong Kids Do. My book teaches kids how to build mental muscle so they can think big, feel good, and act brave. And while my book is written for kids, it’s important for the adults in their lives to reinforce the material. After all, kids often need a coach who is there with them in the moment. So when they’re tempted to give up or when they begin to doubt themselves, we can teach them how to apply the exercises to real-life situations. So on today’s Friday Fix, I share the 13 things strong kids do and some strategies you can use to encourage your kids to develop these healthy habits now. More About the Podcast The Verywell Mind Podcast is available across all streaming platforms. If you like the show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Reviews and ratings are a great way to encourage other people to listen and help them prioritize their mental health too. Links and Resources Follow Amy Morin on Instagram Pick up a copy of 13 Things Strong Kids Do Check out Amy’s books on mental strength The Difference Between Mental Strength and Mental Health 5 Things I Wish More People Understood About Mental Strength 7 Ways Your Smartphone Can Help You Build Mental Strength By Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk, "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit Speak to a Therapist Online Advertiser Disclosure × The offers that appear in this table are from partnerships from which Verywell Mind receives compensation.