Balancing Courage and Fear In Childhood

Courage and fear are twin problems of childhood. Courage is the positive voice that tells us we can do something, while fear tells us that we will fail or get hurt if we try. Without the courage to take a risk, your child cannot fully develop responsibility, cooperation, intellect, friendship, or even love. But, without fear, our children would take unnecessary risks that would result in devastating endings.

I often talk about these traits because they are ones that parents can very much help their children balance. And to keep kids from cigarettes and other destructive behaviors, our children will need to have the courage to say no to peer pressure and be able to stand up to the fear that saying no will somehow impact them negatively.

Parents often worry that their child will get hurt, so they shelter them from experiences that present a risk. However, to build courage, children need a balance between how much you protect them and how much responsibility you give them. So finding our own courage to allow our children more responsibility is essential.

Here are some tips for helping build courage in your child:

Acknowledge Strengths. You know your child has strengths in multiple areas. Help your child focus on building those strengths. When their sport or activity gets difficult, encourage them and you will build courage in them.

Praise The Effort, Not Just The Result. Courage does not always imply success. For example, say your child studies their very hardest and you know that they did the best they could. Unfortunately, they still did not get the grade for which they were hoping. Praise them for all the effort they put into studying and encourage them to “keep up the good work.” Reassure them that all their hard work will pay off.

Show Acceptance For Your Child. Win or lose, make sure your child knows you love them.

Stimulate Independence. Overprotecting can be one of the most handicapping things a parent can do to their child. It could rob a child of the courage that comes from the struggles that life may throw them. Instead, gradually give your child more responsibility, but make sure you keep it in line with their age and maturity.

Parenting is no easy job. And helping your child find a healthy balance between courage and fear is definitely a challenge. But they will find it – with guidance from you.

Source by Dr. Michael H Popkin
Article Source: EzineArticles.com