We aren’t over protective parents at all, in fact we have always given our kids the freedom to try things out and test their abilities.

Somedays we may even be called “under protective”

We trust that they are clever enough to understand the fine line and follow their instincts.

We also believe in TEACHING them safe ways to explore.

When they climb a tree, we don’t run to their rescue, but calmly talk them down.

And when they are climbing on rocks, same scenario – teach them to keep three stable attachments and think before they move.

And so, when our little dude had spent over an hour trying to handsaw a stump, it was a natural progression to upgrade his tool of choice.

In comes our handy dandy Ryobi electric saw.  With Dad’s helping hand, he was able to feel the success of taking down his first tree, and the great feeling that comes with helping out.

Because, yes, we do teach our kids to do that too.

I believe, that without expectations and challenges, kids will never understand how much they are capable of doing. By teaching them to try, to attempt, they may just realize that what they want to do IS possible.

And no, don’t worry. Little dude can’t operate the safety handle on the saw so we won’t find him hacking up the bunk beds anytime soon. But he sure did feel awesome being able to learn from his dad, and take down his own tree.

(That above: that would be his “this is awesome” face. . . even though he looks like a pirate)

My thought is maybe he will be a little more eager to help us stack up the log he cut down since he now has “ownership” over it?  Or bring the wood in from the woodpile some cold winter mornings?

There are always added benefits to giving your kids the chance to help out for REAL!

And from the way he still talks about his “first tree” I think we have made a bit of an impact on him!