Giving My Child Space to Discover What He Loves | Episode 19
Episode 19: Giving my child space to discover what he loves.
Within the Village Engagement Matrix™, children in the Sapling Stage (3rd–7th grade) are developing a stronger sense of identity, interests, and abilities, while parents and caregivers are in Architect Phase II, intentionally creating opportunities that help children discover and develop their unique strengths.
In Episode 19, we discuss the importance of giving children the freedom to explore their interests before expecting them to choose a path.
Throughout my son’s childhood, I introduced him to a wide variety of activities and experiences.
Rather than deciding what his passions should be, I gave him the space to discover them for himself.
As he explored, I observed what captured his attention, what sustained his interest, and what brought him joy.
By the time he reached middle school, those interests had become much clearer.
That’s when my role shifted from introducing possibilities to intentionally investing in the interests he had chosen.
We devoted more time and energy to developing his artistic and musical talents, creating opportunities for those strengths to continue growing.
Today, as an Oak Tree, those early investments are reflected in his college journey. He is pursuing a degree in theatre with a concentration in design and technical production while continuing to perform as a musician in his university marching band.
Through the lens of the Village Engagement Matrix™, this episode illustrates that children don’t discover their passions by accident.
They discover them because someone intentionally creates the time, space, and opportunities to explore.
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