It is half term this week in The Mad House and thanks to Warburtons we visited a local theme park Flamingoland earlier in the week. We had an absolutely amazing time and the boys had a blast.
One of the things that really got me thinking though was the fact that my boys are mini thrillseekers and quite happy to try any ride once, even if the thought scares them. I was often left with my heart in my mouth as they were thrown round on swings over 150 feet in the air or screaming with joy 0n the pirates ship. I ensured that I hid my concerns and encouraged them to reach for the sky, face their fears and to give things a try.
However, many parents actively discouraged their children going on certain rides and as I was on my own with three boys (my seven and eight year old and a friends nine year old), this made me really question my judgement. More so as I had no one to discuss it with.
On this occasion, I decided to let the boys go for it. The rides are in a controlled environment and the parks safety record is excellent. They were obviously having fun as they repeatedly went on the rides (it was very quiet due to the UK storm) and also rather wet, which just meant that there was no queues.
I have never forced my child to do anything that scares them. I have set examples and will go on rides with them and also discuss their feelings and let them know that it is OK to feel scared.
So what would you have done in my situation?
Best to let them go on the rides. They enjoy it. At least you are with them and if they like they will do when you are not there when they’re older. Alternatively they will become fearful if you do not allow them.
With you on this.
Spencer » Thanks Spencer. I think when you are on your own you question your judgement (A LOT)!
If they were tall enough and wanted to go on I would let them (maybe not straight after lunch).
I would love Snaffles to get a bit braver and come on some bigger rides with me. He is getting there slowly though. suspect his brother will be on them before he is and that might change his mind!
My 4 yo has been a thrill seeker since she was 2! Her favourites are roller coasters, and as long as she meets the minimum heights for rides, she goes on whatever she wants. The only ones that I discourage are ghost trains or the like as I know she would be scared by those. I think you absolutely did the right thing.
Baba is a thrill seeker just like me, as long as he is tall enough he can go on what he likes. We have never done Ghost Trains as they would set of his nightmares for sure but other than that the only restriction he has is his height. Have to say Mr L hates rides and even he attempts them as he doesn’t want to put that fear onto Baba so he has been known to get on a roller coaster looking very grey/green but has achieved it! x
Kerry » I am the same, I have been scared really bad, but put on a brave face for the boys