Personally, I think that failures are a difficult but very important part of our lives. Failing makes us work harder, and as children it makes us realize that in order to succeed we must put forth effort, that everything doesn’t necessarily come easy. BUT, it’s so hard to think of letting your child fail at something. I want to protect them from being hurt and disappointed, even when I know it’s not what is best for them.
When is the right time to stop protecting and let them fail? That’s what I struggle with. On a small scale, I let them do it all the time. Letting the twins climb the big kid playground or try the monkey bars is good for them, even though I know that they will probably fall a few times before they get it. Maybe even more than a few times. But none of those things are going to break my child’s heart.
There are soccer try-outs for a more competitive league on Sunday, and the thought of it gives me a horribly sick feeling in my stomach. I know that I should explain to Luke that it is a try-out and that he may not make the team, and let him decide whether he wants to do it or not. He enjoys soccer, but I think that it has more to do with the team aspect of it than the actual sport. I don’t think my husband wants us to do it, but his concerns have more to do with over committing Luke to too many sports in the spring.
I know that I’m being silly and some of you will think “suck it up, he’s in first grade”, I tend to agree. But it’s so hard! What are your thoughts on letting your kids fail? Would you let your young child try out for a team that he/she probably wouldn’t make?
I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Until our next adventure,
Moving Mommy
Moving Mommy 