Parenting
By Jamie Thompson
Last week, I took my 10-year-old daughter, Emma, on an adventure to the iconic Hollywood sign. We can spot it from our home on clear days, and it has always been on our list to hike up. There’s a straightforward, well-trodden path filled with tourists, but we opted for the more challenging route—a two-mile trek that involves rocky terrain and a steep elevation gain of 1,000 feet. I made sure to keep Emma close during the narrow stretches, especially where a 300-foot drop loomed on one side.
We’ve become more adept at these outings over time. I’ve learned to be more patient, and she rarely feels overwhelmed anymore. Although she has a naturally adventurous spirit, bravery is a skill that requires practice. Every few weeks, we embark on a new outing to push our limits. Our recent challenge was the hike to the Hollywood sign, but we’ve also conquered the Grand Canyon, navigated whitewater rapids, and even snorkeled with leopard sharks (that one was a little chaotic).
While it might be easier and safer to stay in with a movie or video games, I believe that a childhood devoid of adventure comes with its own risks—especially when it comes to entering adulthood without the ability to tackle real challenges. Sure, unpredictable situations can arise, but that’s a part of life and the essence of experiences worth pursuing. For my kids, the best way to distinguish between worthwhile risks and those best avoided is through practice.
After our hike, Emma excitedly showed her friends pictures from the trek. Some gasped at the sight of the cliff, and she confidently remarked, “Adventures are worth the mishaps.” While it’s a phrase she’s likely borrowed, I love that she’s beginning to think that way. She’s starting to realize the valuable rewards that come from our adventures, and in time, she’ll come to understand the character they help build. Although our weekend activities focus on physical challenges, they also cultivate a different kind of bravery.
Many of the obstacles Emma will face in life won’t be physical; they’ll likely be moral dilemmas. I want her to be prepared not only to confront physical dangers but also to exhibit courage in her interactions with others. As proud as I am when she scales a cliff or catches a wave, nothing compares to the joy I feel when she shows kindness. For instance, she recently invited a new student to join her at lunch—an act of bravery in its own right.
As she matures, standing up for others will require even greater courage. I can only wish she never faces severe tests, like confronting a hostile crowd or defending innocent lives in dire situations. Ideally, her moral challenges would involve writing opinion pieces for the local paper or advocating for diverse literature in her school library. But I know Emma’s empathetic nature and that she will strive to help those in need wherever her path may lead.
This is why we actively practice bravery. One day, Emma will need to draw from the courage we’ve built together. In those moments, she’ll realize just how deep that reservoir goes. If I’ve done my job correctly, she’ll remember my guiding hand on her shoulder as we navigate life, just like we did on our journey toward that big white sign over the next ridge. For more insights on parenting and bravery, check out this post on practical parenting tips. If you’re considering home insemination, Make A Mom is a great resource for reliable kits. Also, for further information on genetics and fertility, visit the Genetics and IVF Institute.
In summary, teaching my daughter about bravery is not just about physical adventures; it’s also about nurturing her moral compass and encouraging her to be kind and courageous in her everyday interactions.
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