Everyone has their comfort zone, no matter the age. We all have a preferred activity or lifestyle, and it is hard to stray into the unknown. But we are probably born with a passion for curiosity. What changes? Maybe we become complacent or simply learn to fear what we don’t know. But you have to think about your reaction to life in general, because that is what you’ll be passing on to your kids.
Children take on the qualities of those who surround them, which is most often the parents. Therefore, a parent who encourages a child to try new things most likely does so themselves. And whether you realize it or not, you’re teaching your child about the world indirectly. Anxiety especially is easy to pick up on. Children can sense if you’re nervous about something and will copy your behavior. Just like that, your child can learn to fear something even if they haven’t experienced it.
This is not to say you should fake it for your child. But when you take an opportunity to broaden your own horizons and set an example, your child may benefit. No one’s asking you to start mountain climbing to face your fear of heights. It could be something as small as trying a new food. You may have fears that your child does not. Be proud that your child can do things you can’t and support them the best you can. Pushing the limits is not a bad thing, and teaching your child that everyone’s limits are different is not a bad lesson either.
