So a big outdoor adventure may seem intimidating to a youngster.
Being intimidated by nature is totally normal.
“You address it like you might address anything new for a kid: gently.”
Schedule ahead.
And you do need to seek them out since they won’t be as readily available to you.
Set plans are harder to skip out on than “maybe” plans.
This will also help city-dwelling parents, as exposing your kid to wildlife does take more forethought.
Expose them with ease.
There is some truth to the fact that you should address fears head-on.
Say, for example, your kid gets squeamish around worms.
Eventually, they’ll likely overcome some of the fear and be able to be around bugs more easily.
“But the second they do, they’re usually fine.
Kids are actually really good about this stuff.
Many learn easily.”
And one key point, says Beurkens, is it’s crucial that you model enthusiasm.
So when you give them a little nudgewhatever the activityexpress your excitement.
There, of course, is a limit.
Look for small opportunities inside and out.
“Even just exposing them with photos or a book can help,” she says.
Or if they like arts and crafts, take them to a local park to draw flowers.
If they like museums, take them to a bug exhibit.
Or if they are into Legos and building blocks, try building something in a yard or park.
“Just find something they are interested in and expand from there,” she says.
