Everything Is an Adventure When You're Three

Today, our three-year-old grandson learned to open the gate to his fenced yard. He let himself out, but, he couldn’t get back in. So, he rang the doorbell and knocked on the garage door. His mother came out to find him sitting in the driveway crying. She was more traumatized by his escapade than he was.

Should he have stayed in the yard? Of course. Should he have told someone he was exploring? Yup. But, should he be scolded for venturing out to try something new? That is a fine line. He did after all stay safe right by the house.

He now knows not to leave the yard without making sure he has permission (and he knows what permission means). He also understands that trusted neighbors are great resources if he needs them. Let’s hope he remembers these lessons. He’s just too young to be venturing out on his own 

We have one child who has always been cautious, who assesses risk versus reward and then makes decisions about moving forward. We have another who always jumps first and looks for the net later. There is no one way to keep your children perfectly safe while to encouraging them to fully experience life. I certainly haven’t found a formula for meting out freedom. At what age do we loosen the reins? How much do we loosen them?

Our three-year-old may have gone exploring, but, parenthood itself is a lifelong adventure.