The Reward Of Risk | Building Confidence In Kids

Patagonia was founded by climbers—risk taking is in our blood.

The guiding philosophies and key practices of our child-care program reflect Patagonia’s values, mission and culture. When babies want to roll down the grassy hill or two-year-olds want to scale the climbing wall, we stand nearby and assist only if necessary. When children make relatively small decisions - Should I climb this tree? - they practice weighing consequences before they get older and must make higher-stakes choices.

There is a difference between danger and risk. Our environments reflect this difference by being free of hazards but full of challenges. Teachers don’t encourage kids to climb higher than they’re prepared to, and they don’t hold them back if they seem capable and focused. Teachers are available to support children but ultimately want kids to be able to accurately assess risk.

Supporting children in taking chances teaches them to guide themselves safely, thoughtfully and confidently. Those are the rewards of risk.

Learn more at: patagonia.com/familybusiness