As kids grow into teen-hood and beyond, I feel like our job as parents is to move from protecting them from harm, to helping them build self-confidence and a positive self-image. Essentially to become boosters.
There’s a balance between being protective and pushing them to take chances. What do you think?
I try to generally push back my protection instinct with a “Give it a try, I believe in you!” On each success I readjust my “I’m not sure if they are ready for that” meter and look forward to the next hype opportunity. I’m guessing eventually I’ll get a “God. Stop. You’re so embarrassing.” Then I’ll know my work continues.