Instilling self-confidence in your children is one of the most important jobs you are entrusted with as a parent. While you know that using positive guidance helps build self-esteem, it is sometimes hard to come up with new ways to build confidence in children who need a little push to get out of their comfort zone. Zip lining is one activity that has grown in popularity, and the cool factor will be all it takes to get your child eager to step out into new territory that rewards taking a safe risk.
Learn to Conquer Fears
Many kids have a natural fear of heights that causes them to be apprehensive about climbing into a zip line harness. Yet, it is hard to resist the thrill of a new adventure. During their introduction to zip lining, the staff always spends time talking to kids about the different pieces of equipment that are designed to keep them safe. Kids are also allowed to practice skills that build up to the big moment such as putting on their harness and zipping down a lower line. As kids gain familiarity with zip lining, their fears recede, and it only takes a few moments of soaring through the air before most of them completely forget why they were ever scared in the first place.
Developing Trust in a Safe Environment
Introducing a kid to zip lining should always be done in a safe and supportive environment. Summer camps offer zip lining because they know how exciting it is for kids to literally reach new heights while also building their ability to trust in themselves and others. They are never forced to go on a zip line until they are ready. Instead, they are encouraged to take on the challenge by positive interactions with their peers and the crew. On a summer camp zip line course, kids who are new to the sport get the opportunity to watch experienced campers take the leap first while receiving encouragement from everyone in their group when they are ready to give it a try.
Enjoy a Sense of Accomplishment
The benefits of zip lining are instant since a kid’s confidence begins to soar as soon as they step off the platform. Feeling a sense of awe as they take in the scenery is a huge reward for taking a leap of faith, and kids quickly gain a sense of control since they can slow down their ride along the length of the course or let go to enjoy a faster zip down the line. Once they complete their zip line, the other members of their group are always eager to celebrate their big moment with enthusiasm. Over time, many kids begin to seek out new opportunities for zip lining that takes them to greater heights and to exciting new landscapes.
Taking safe risks and conquering new challenges is important for building a kid’s self-confidence. The confidence a kid learns on a zip line also extends to other areas of their life since knowing that they can beat their fears helps them with public speaking, learning a new academic skill and practicing leadership in sports. By allowing your child the opportunity to see the world from a bird’s-eye view, you provide them with a new perspective on their ability to accomplish anything they set their mind out to do.
If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp, be sure to visit our site to learn about Camp Walt Whitman. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camp Walt Whitman offers a safe, nurturing environment in a beautiful mountain setting. Our camp is a coed sleepaway camp, with separate areas for boys and girls. The kids have a blast, and make friendships that can last a lifetime. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html
