The word he used was ‘fearless’, and I remember it as clearly as my memories of my seven-year-old son unafraid of a three metre rising swell on a high tide as if he were a professional surfer.
Grappled with anxiety many a time, I’ve found myself uttering cautious warnings, urging my son to reconsider his daring pursuits.
Scooting down steep hills, venturing out of eyesight, jumping off things that have broken bone written all over them — at times, it’s hard to watch.
Yet, reflecting on these moments and wise words, I realised that I needed to find a delicate balance between safeguarding my child and allowing him the freedom to explore and grow.
After talking to many other parents recently, I’ve also realised that this is an actual situation that I am not alone in.
So, if it’s natural to be gripped by anxiety when our children engage in activities that push the boundaries of safety, how do we navigate through these challenges?
If my son wants to be a professional surfer one day, I am all for him following his dreams, even if I silently watch on from the dunes filled with worry and grey hair.
But in the meantime, let’s tackle these parenting waves together and surf through the highs and lows.
Here is some information that may help.
By finding a balance between safety and freedom, as parents, we all can raise fearless leaders in their own right.
Open communication
Foster open communication with your child. Encourage them to share their experiences and feelings and listen attentively without judgement.
Set clear boundaries
Establish clear boundaries and rules for safety while allowing room for exploration and growth. Let your child know what is acceptable and what is not.
Teach risk assessment
Teach your child how to assess risks and make informed decisions. Help them understand the consequences of their actions and how to mitigate potential dangers.
Encourage independence
Encourage independence and self-reliance by gradually giving your child more freedom and responsibility as they demonstrate maturity and good judgement.
Lead by example
Be a positive role model by demonstrating courage, resilience and responsible risk-taking in your own life.
Provide supervision
While encouraging independence, ensure that you provide appropriate supervision and support, especially in unfamiliar or potentially hazardous situations.
Celebrate achievements
Celebrate your child’s achievements and successes, no matter how small. Encourage them to take pride in their courage and accomplishments.
