Letting your child take risks

Tweet

There is a balancing act that every parent has to do when it comes to risky behaviour in their child. Taking risks can develop skills and confidence, while prohibiting any risk instill fear and low self-confidence. I read an article about some parents who prevent their children from climbing trees, using trampolines, and other such activities. One parent even went so far as to tell their child not to play tag or hide and seek. I have no problem with a bit of tree climbing and using a trampoline. Rather than barring such activities I take the approach that, if they are going to do these things, then teach them the proper way to do it, and supervise them. It seems to me that parents are developing far too many phobias when it comes to risky behaviour. I remember it being different when I was a child.