“Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.” (Seneca)

Muscles grow when they are forced to work. We know that fact, as evidenced by the number of gym memberships in this country. The same principle holds true for our minds and the minds of our children. By shielding your child from difficulty, whether it be in the classroom, playground, or the home, you are actually handicapping their chances to grow. The next time you think of the phrase “no pain, no gain”, don’t just think of leg warmers and spin classes, think about your child and the way in which they develop. Real growth is tough. It’s messy. It hurts. It takes trial and error. When you see your child struggling with something, take a deep breath and realize what is really going on. Your child is being presented with a chance to grow stronger. Don’t deprive them of that great opportunity just because you can’t handle your own anxiety.