Our children are growing up in a world that is increasingly fast-paced and competitive.
It is estimated that we will make over 35,000 decisions in a day, and that auto-pilot mode is used to get us through most of these choices. The more challenging choices require vulnerability when we are open to being hurt emotionally. It requires courage to be vulnerable. The result of being courageous and vulnerable can lead to an authentic life. Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but it takes a great deal of courage to be vulnerable. Willows children understand this, and they are not afraid to put themselves out there. Whether it’s raising their hand in an activity or interrupting the teacher to ask a question, they are willing to take risks. This allows children to learn and grow more quickly than their less-vulnerable counterparts. In addition, their courage often inspires others to take similar risks. As a result, Willow’s children are making the setting a more open and understanding place, one act of vulnerability at a time.
When we role model to our children that we are comfortable with being vulnerable it allows them to be their authentic selves without the concern of judgment. As we get older, we will continue to face moments that require us to register high on the scale of vulnerability.
Examples like asking someone on a date, interviewing for their dream job, or saying “I Love You” for the first time. In short, these moments can be life-changing.
Everyone experiences pain, hurt, and failure at some point in their lives. It’s an inevitable part of being human. What makes us all unique is how we deal with these tough times. Some people build up walls, barricading themselves from ever being hurt again. Others choose to face their fears head-on, letting themselves be vulnerable in order to build resilience. Willows believe that the latter group is much braver. It takes courage to put yourself out there, knowing that you might get hurt in the process. But it’s through these experiences that we learn and grow as individuals. We become more understanding and kind towards others when we realize that everyone is fighting their own battles.
Being brave doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. It means you have the courage to face your fears head-on.
At Willows Pre-School, we focus on helping children understand that being vulnerable is an act of courage. We believe that children learn best when they feel safe to take risks and experiment. By encouraging a growth mindset, we provide an environment where children can actively contribute without fear of being wrong but instead enjoy the learning experience. We believe that this approach helps children develop resilience and a love of learning – in other words: They do the work to live an authentic life.
