Recent research suggests that prompting children to engage in safe risk-taking activities can significantly decrease their likelihood of developing anxiety disorders. A study conducted by researchers from Australia, the Netherlands, and England examined 312 preschool-aged children in Amsterdam and Australia to determine the impact of what they termed Challenging Parental Behavior (CPB) on anxiety levels. The findings indicated that parents who fostered environments conducive to safe risk-taking were more likely to have children who exhibited fewer symptoms of anxiety.
Many parents might instinctively believe that preschoolers are naturally inclined to challenge themselves. However, there’s often a concern that encouraging further risk-taking could lead to frequent visits to the emergency room. It’s essential to clarify that the study emphasizes “safe risk-taking,” which includes activities like engaging in rough-and-tumble play, allowing children to lose games, or encouraging them to explore new social situations. These activities are intended to help children build resilience in a controlled manner.
While some suggestions, such as “giving them a fright,” may seem counterintuitive to many parents—who might find themselves anxious watching their children navigate emotional or physical challenges—the core message remains powerful. By allowing kids to face manageable risks, we empower them to learn that they can endure and thrive beyond their comfort zones. For instance, when children climb the jungle gym, they discover their capabilities. Roughhousing with siblings can teach them about resilience in the face of life’s minor setbacks.
Observing our little ones take risks that might lead to disappointment can be challenging, particularly when we fear they could end up in tears. However, these experiences offer invaluable lessons about the world and foster a sense of confidence and self-reliance. Success in trying new things boosts a child’s self-esteem, while failure can provide critical lessons that contribute to emotional growth.
Therefore, parents are encouraged to step back and allow their children the freedom to take these calculated risks. For more insights about parenting and related topics, check out our other blog posts, such as this one on intracervical insemination. Furthermore, for those interested in understanding the broader context of fertility journeys, Make a Mom offers an authoritative perspective. Additionally, an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination can be found at ASRM.
Summary:
Encouraging children to take safe risks is linked to lower anxiety levels. By fostering environments that allow children to explore and face challenges, parents can help build their confidence and resilience. While it may be daunting to watch them stumble or face minor setbacks, these experiences are vital for emotional development.