My son started a new season of soccer and we were unsure what the second practice would look like. His first practice my dad took him and he left after 15 minutes. Fear set in.
I asked him to try it again, and this time I would take him. If he did well, even if he wanted to sit there he would get a reward. I’m not above bribing if it means helping my kid overcome his fear and be able to enjoy something active.
He agreed to come. At first he stood back and was mad at me for walking to the field, because he didn’t want to leave my side and this made him come to the field to. I then joined in and he followed suit. Within 10 minutes I was able to go sit with the other parents! Afterwards, he said, “That was a blast!”
Such a simple example of a child overcoming his fear with support and love surrounding him. I could have let him give up and shut down, and I debated about this. I’m glad I did what I did, knowing how he loved soccer the prior season. I’m so proud of Liam for overcoming his fear and putting his all into the practice!
Always remember to encourage your kids. Remember there’s a fine line between encouraging and forcing. They don’t have to be perfect, they just have to try.
