Post by @getreeldad

Here are the steps I used to help my toddler after a fall: 1️⃣ TURNED OFF THE CAMERA immediately and made sure he was okay. While not recorded, I kept my tone calm and I didn’t sprint over to him. If he was in real danger or injured this wild be different. ⛔️ 2️⃣ I ENCOURAGED him to TRY AGAIN. Notice this was done as a supportive act after he said “do it again”. 3️⃣ I ASSISTED him. When it became apparent that his confidence had fallen, I stepped in to help when asked. I started with 2 hands, then 1, then stepped back to be there to catch him. Helping him realize how much he’s doing on his own. 💪 4️⃣ SMILE 😁. I started doing this in high school and college sports. I would be nervous and scared to do things, but I realized how lucky I am to have the opportunity. Smiling when scared is one of my favorite tools 🪛 5️⃣ MODEL the action. Show them how to do it. Even if they’ve done it before, like Enzo has. Knowing that WE are doing it together is helpful. 6️⃣ used EMPOWERING language. Continue to support. I focus on his strengths and encourage him. It’s important to be honest. Don’t encourage a child to do something they cannot feasibly do. 7️⃣ INCENTIVIZE 🏆. I offered some vitamin gummy bears as a sweet treat for when we were all done. A little bribery (within reason) can be a great motivator to hide the fear. 8️⃣ CELEBRATE 🥳. Enjoy the moment and reinforce the big accomplishment that it is!! Tumbles and falls are some of the best teaching opportunities when treated right. And while we make it a point to stop filming when our children need our attention and they’re distressed, the uplifting portion (once we’ve assured everyone has their composure) can be a great inspiration for other parents and families 🤍 How do you handle fear? In yourself? Or with your children? Especially when you become afraid of something you used to be able to do without a problem? 🤔 If you care about intentional parenting, and agree with raising children to be strong and capable, then consider following us 💪