The modern child spends most of his or her time indoors. They go to school indoors, they play indoors, and when they go home, they usually conduct indoor activities. Most of this generational lifestyle stems from the parental fear that the children will hurt themselves or be hurt by others. There are always reports on television and radio about children being abducted, maimed, and otherwise harmed. This makes parents want to keep their children as close as possible. Additionally, most children live in cities with yards that are barely larger than the width of two cars. This makes it easier to keep children indoors because there are fewer activities to engage in outdoors.
A couple of generations ago children were everywhere. Whether they were in a city or not, they explored every inch of their surroundings. They rode bicycles around town, purchased groceries alone for their parents, went on weekend camping trips with no adult supervision, and were not afraid to go anywhere.
Modern parents would be terrified to let their children have that level of freedom. However, this attitude also keeps children from maturing as quickly and keeps the children from gaining independence. Children are statistically fatter and less capable than ever before, and this probably has something to do with it.
The danger to children is not completely imagined. There do seem to be more chances of children getting hurt than in the past. However, this does not mean that they cannot ever explore. Exploring is in the heart of most children, and the ability should be given to them whenever possible. There are several practical ways that children can be allowed to explore safely.
If you live in the country your children have the best chance for exploration. There are fewer people in the country which makes it safer for children. Start slowly. Allow your children to travel perhaps up to half a mile away. You can give them a cell phone in case they get into trouble. If these trips go successfully, then you can allow them to have more freedom. Make sure they pack appropriate supplies such as water and healthy snacks. A compass can be handy for such trips.
Living in the city makes exploration much harder, but it can still be done. Plan family vacations based around exploring and outdoor activities. Most children love such activities as biking, canoeing, hiking, and fishing. You could even plan a family exploration adventure.
At home there are ways to promote exploration in your children as well. Allow them to research different kinds of exploration and camping. Let the children plan what they want to do on their adventure and what they should bring. Parents should make sure they have all necessary supplies, but the children can plan the majority of the trip and supply list. It can be a great learning experience for everyone.
Allowing your children the freedom and independence to explore the world around them will enable them to have more maturity, responsibility, and confidence.
Tags: Expeditions for youths, Exploration, Family adventures, Fun for the family, How to travel safely with children, Youth expeditions
