Parents as Risk Encouragers
This morning, I had the privilege of seeing off our Year 5 students and their teachers as they embarked on their residential trip to Beijing. The excitement was palpable, but so too were the quiet moments of hesitation, those final hugs, the nervous glances and the brave smiles from both parents and children.
As parents, we often walk a delicate line. At times encouraging our children to take risks while instinctively wanting to protect them. Yet it is in these moments of stepping into the unknown, whether it’s going on your first trip without parents, trying new foods when we are on holiday, or navigating a new culture that the building blocks of self-confidence are often laid.
Confidence rarely arrives in giant leaps. Instead, it grows through marginal gains and small victories; tiny acts of courage, and the resilience built from overcoming challenges.
A child’s time throughout their schooling is a perfect incubator to nurture such growth in marginal gains. As educators we plan for children to be stretched and challenged in class knowing, somewhat instinctively, that the children may find the lesson hard but achievable.
Just as important, a netball match, a swimming competition or a chess match, among others, offers countless opportunities for those gains. Each one contributes to a stronger, more self-assured child. So, whether your child is thinking of trying out for a team, entering a solo music concert or is committing to trying something new and different, we should be there as risk encouragers.
Arguably, the journey to confident, self-assured children begins with adults taking the first risk: encouraging them to step forward.
Looking Ahead
Please see below dates that may be of interest in the coming months *may be subject to changes*:
Monday 15th - Friday 19th September - Year 5 Beijing Residential Trip
