In this podcast, Jan Smith, homeschool mother of four grown children and Vice President of Homeschool Louisiana, shares insights on how to foster an adventurous spirit in children. Jan believes that the first five years of a child's life are crucial in shaping their perspective on the world. In this regard, she emphasizes the importance of exposing children to new experiences and helping them learn how to overcome their fears. Jan discusses how learning to manage fear is an essential step towards cultivating an adventurous spirit in children. She emphasizes the need to teach children from a young age to face their fears and to recognize their capacity for growth. Jan suggests that parents can do this by allowing children to take risks, but in small doses, so that they can learn what they are capable of and parents can learn to let go. As children grow, Jan believes that parenting is about gradually eliminating their need for parents' constant supervision and guidance. She encourages parents to recognize their children's potential and to allow them to do more than they think they are capable of doing. Jan also encourages parents to use language that inspires bravery in their children, rather than constantly warning them to be careful. Jan acknowledges that, as a mother, contending with her own fears about her children's safety and navigating the judgments of others can be a challenging aspect of fostering an adventurous spirit. She shares her experiences of doing things that other people may have disapproved of but that were essential for her children's growth and development. Jan emphasizes the importance of letting children fail when the risks are low and allowing them to learn from their mistakes. She explains that learning new skills often involves starting out poorly and making mistakes but that the process of falling and getting back up is a valuable experience in itself. In conclusion, Jan emphasizes that creating a culture of adventure in the family means allowing children to take risks and make mistakes and recognizing that their adventures are not ours to control. She shares a personal story of how she felt like something was an unnecessary risk for her child, but it was necessary for his growth. Through her experiences, Jan encourages parents to nurture an adventurous spirit in their children and to embrace the unknown with open arms. You will absolutely adore Jan and I know this episode will encourage and inspire you. If you're interested in meeting us in Louisiana on April 22nd, 2023 just outside of Hammond, Louisiana make sure you sign up for the Homeschool Louisiana conference today! Sometimes tickets are available at the door but they often sell out. There's also a swamp tour you can sign up for that is happening on April 21st. Can't wait to see you there! Click here for more information >> https://www.homeschoollouisiana.org/