The term risk taking, especially in a child-care setting, has negative connotations associated with it.
But the reality is different......
Engaging is risky activities provides children with the opportunity to learn new skills & try new behaviours. Children will naturally seek to challenge themselves, and despite adult concerns, engage in risk-taking as they expand their own world view, develop an understanding of themselves as and individual, develop an understanding of others, and endevour to gain knowledge in a various range of skills (Children's Play Council, 2004; Stephensen, 2003)
Still not convinced?
The video below looks at how a New Zealand school introduced risky play e.g climbing trees, bullrush, skateboarding, mud slides etc back into their school and as a result saw a decrease in bullying, vandalism and serious injuries and saw an increase in concentration!
For the full article please visit here: LINK
What do you think??
