When parents and caregivers lose the sense that they control their own lives, it becomes extremely difficult for them to create an environment that shields their children from insecurity. This edition of Early Childhood Matters (ECM) asks what are the most effective ways of dealing with and diminishing parental stress, and what are the factors that contribute to children’s resilience and coping mechanisms in challenging care environments in particular contexts. It includes an conceptual overview by Ted Wachs, an interview with Professor James Heckman, and insights from countries including Mexico, South Africa and Bulgaria.