June 3 – Encouraging Youth to Take Positive Risks
Understand Your Risk
Learning often involves stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. When youth take positive risks—such as trying a new activity, sharing an idea, or leading a group—they build confidence and resilience.
Youth programs can support positive risk-taking by creating environments where effort is valued and mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities. When young people know they will be encouraged rather than criticized, they are more willing to try new things.
Adults play an important role in guiding this process. Offering encouragement, recognizing effort, and celebrating attempts help youth understand that growth often comes through experimentation.
Positive risks help youth discover new interests and abilities. A young person who hesitates to speak in front of others might eventually become a confident presenter after receiving supportive encouragement.
When youth feel safe exploring new opportunities, they develop courage and curiosity that support lifelong learning.