How to Teach Young Children About Trying New Things and Overcoming Fear
Trying something new—whether it’s tasting a new food, joining a new class, or playing a new game—can feel exciting and scary at the same time. For young children, learning how to face fears and embrace new experiences helps them build confidence, curiosity, and resilience. With support and encouragement, children can learn that it’s okay to feel nervous—and still try.
Why This Lesson Matters
- Builds bravery and self-confidence
- Promotes a growth mindset
- Encourages curiosity and exploration
- Teaches emotional resilience
- Prepares children for transitions and change
Option 1: Practice Bravery Through Small, Safe Challenges
Activity Idea:
Help your child set a goal around something new—like trying a new food, climbing a step higher, or talking to a new friend.
Celebrate the effort: “You were so brave to try that, even though it felt hard.”
Use a “Bravery Badge” system to mark each new experience.
What Kids Learn:
- That fear is normal and manageable
- The joy of trying something new
- Confidence from effort—not just success
Tool Suggestion:
Create a “Brave Chart” with stickers or stars for each challenge they try.
Option 2: Use Books and Stories About Overcoming Fear
Activity Idea:
Read books about characters who face their fears or try something new.
Ask questions like:
- “How do you think they felt before and after?”
- “What helped them feel strong?”
Act out the story with toys or puppets and create your own endings together.
What Kids Learn:
- That everyone feels fear sometimes
- Strategies to cope with scary or unfamiliar situations
- Bravery grows with practice
Book Suggestion:
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall — a beautiful story about a child overcoming the fear of diving.
Other Ways to Encourage Trying New Things
- Model it yourself: “I’m trying a new recipe today—wish me luck!”
- Praise the effort: “You didn’t want to do it at first, but you gave it a try—amazing!”
- Make it playful: Turn new experiences into games or challenges
- Give choices: “Which new game should we try first?”
- Be patient: Let them take small steps without pressure
Final Thoughts
Learning to try new things is one of the bravest and most rewarding lessons for young children. With empathy, encouragement, and a little creativity, you can help your child face fears, grow confidence, and discover the joy of new experiences. Because every big step starts with a brave little one