Hey there, Supermom! I spotted you the other day, and I could see the frustration written all over your face. You were trying everything—encouraging, coaxing, and maybe even a little bribing. You had visions of your little one scoring goals on the soccer field or taking center stage in a dance recital, but instead, you’re left with a kiddo who’s practically glued to your leg, terrified to try anything new.
You’ve likely tried every trick in the book to get him or her to let go and just dive in, but alas, they remain steadfast in their refusal. Meanwhile, your heart sinks as you watch the other kids happily jumping in. What’s the deal? Why won’t your child just give it a shot?
You start to imagine worst-case scenarios: your kid not making the team or being the last one picked for kickball every time. Those frantic thoughts swirl around in your head. If they don’t start swim lessons now, will they ever be a great swimmer? Did you somehow fail them? The clock is ticking, and they’re already a whole FOUR years old!
As your child digs in deeper, so does your anxiety. “Why can’t you just try a little? Please!” Suddenly, what was meant to be a fun activity has turned into a battle for both of you.
I totally get it. I’ve been in your shoes. When my youngest, Tommy, was three, I signed him up for a toddler basketball class at the Y, convinced it would kickstart his sports career. The coach was young and energetic, a perfect fit! But Tommy, bless his heart, had other plans. While the other kids ran to the instructor, he clung to me like a koala for all eight weeks. I lost sleep worrying that my little guy was doomed.
Instead of listening to Tommy’s cues, I let my inner drama queen take charge. Basketball was too intimidating, so I thought, “What’s more fun than that? Ice skating!” Because clearly, forcing a terrified child onto icy surfaces is the answer, right?
So, I signed him up for ice skating lessons, even though I’m not a fan of the cold and have never seen a hockey game. Not surprisingly, he was petrified. I practically had to peel him off my arm to get him to the rink. He cried and begged, but I was determined that he needed to learn to skate for his future NHL career.
I let him recover from the trauma of each lesson for a few days, then would casually mention how excited he should be. I threw everything at him—candy, superhero costumes, you name it. But nothing worked. He just wasn’t ready.
As I watched you the other day, I felt your pain. But here’s the good news: it will happen. How do I know? Well, that anxious little boy who wouldn’t participate is now nine and one of the best baseball players on his team. He’s a fantastic swimmer and a skilled basketball player with a promising free throw. Just last week, he asked me if he could take skating lessons!
So, take a deep breath. I know it’s tough to be patient, but your little one will be ready to try someday—whether that’s in five minutes or five years. Sit back and relax; they won’t miss out on anything. When the moment is right, they’ll let you know.
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In summary, remember that every child develops at their own pace. While it may feel like a race now, your little one will find their footing when they’re ready!