“…Children who are encouraged to take reasonable, safe risks – with the guidance and support of their parents as they leave their comfort zone – tend to grow in confidence, are willing to make mistakes and use each failure as an education.” (Richard Asa, Chicago Tribune, January 1, 2012) 
 
What do you think about allowing kids to take “reasonable, safe risks”?

• It’s been my experience that the children who were encouraged to “leave their comfort zone” found that they were able to accomplish things they never imagined.
• “Safe risks” that stretch kids truly do build confidence.
• One of the interesting compliments I got one time went like this: You think I can do things I don’t think I can do. But because you think I can, I try and I’m successful!” That’s one thing a parent or other responsible adult can do for a child.
• Our three sons grew up in a small country church and attended a high school of fewer than 500 students.  In both of those settings, they were able to take “safe risks when it came to being involved in music and in athletics.
• Other examples of “safe risks” might be taking part in community theater, signing up for the Scholastic Bowl at school,  getting involved in a club, taking lessons – music, karate, horseback riding, etc.

• On thing is to model this behavior, not being afraid of failure at every turn. It might look like trying something new … like volunteering to write an article for the church newsletter.
• Talk to your children about bravery and initiative and show them examples of these positive attributes.
• Do not over-indulge or over-protect. This parental behavior does not promote positive risk-taking.

What things should parents consider as they encourage their children to take “safe risks”?

• Look at your child’s personality. Different children will find different healthy risks appealing. Is your child artistic? Athletic? A drama queen (or king)? An electronic geek? Find a way to help them take that “safe risk” in your child’s area of interest.  Your goal is to “stretch” your children, not to break them.
• For children who are fearful or extremely cautious, keep the challenges non-threatening. (participating in a class activity/performance – not pushing the child into the lead role).
• For the daredevil child, provide more structure and limits.
• There are many Biblical examples of men and women who took a risk for the Lord… Rahab, Abraham, Shadrack, Daniel and more.