Getting kids to try new things can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Parents in Silver Spring often find that children naturally resist unfamiliar foods, activities, or experiences, but with patience, creativity, and the right strategies, you can help your child embrace novelty with confidence.
It’s normal for children to be cautious about new experiences. Their brains are wired to seek comfort in the familiar. Toddlers and preschoolers, in particular, rely on routines to feel safe. Educators in Silver Spring notice that offering new activities gradually can help children feel more secure and open to exploration.
A gentle approach works best. Introduce new experiences in small steps. For example:
Children often mirror adult behavior. If you demonstrate excitement and curiosity about new experiences, your child is more likely to follow your lead. Children are more likely to step outside their comfort zones when they see their parents doing the same. In Silver Spring classrooms, teachers find that role modeling encourages kids to approach challenges with confidence.
Modeling courage and curiosity not only encourages children to try new experiences but also shows them that learning and exploration are fun parts of everyday life.
For more strategies on positive social-emotional skills, check out:
While the activity may be new, predictability can help ease anxiety. For example:
Praise your child for trying, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Focusing on effort helps children build resilience and a growth mindset. For example, say, “I love how you tried that new vegetable!” rather than emphasizing whether they liked it.
Children often respond well to seeing peers enjoying new experiences. Arrange play dates, group activities, or classroom interactions where children can try something together. Peer modeling can make unfamiliar tasks feel less intimidating.
Opportunities for trying new things don’t have to be complicated. Parents can:
Helping children try new things is a journey of patience, encouragement, and modeling. By starting small, celebrating effort, providing structure, and making experiences playful, parents can foster a lifelong love of exploration in their children.
Children in Silver Spring preschools who are supported in these ways often develop confidence, curiosity, and resilience that benefits them across school, friendships, and everyday life.
For more on children’s development, visit:
MCCA has been recognized by the Maryland State Legislature for its commitment to Montgomery County issued a quality programs and special needs child care Proclamation in 2016 to MCCA for its commitment to Montgomery County child care for more than 50 years. MCCA was also selected as a 2018 nonprofit finalist for a MOXIE Award for boldness and innovation
MCCA is the oldest nonprofit licensed child care provider in Montgomery County and started its work in 1968 as a Community Action Project of the War on Poverty. Recognizing the need for quality child care programs in their neighborhoods, a group of local activists formed an association to establish centers in Montgomery County that would serve a diverse population and establish high standards for child care. Now, more than 50 years later, MCCA’s dedicated and expertly trained staff continue their tradition of providing high quality child care and play-based education for children.
Families with school aged children who can afford their child care expenses during the school year often struggle to afford the all-day programs they need when school is out for the summer. The Richard Krampf Summer Adventures Scholarship Fund was established to help provide children a safe and stimulating place to spend their weeks when school is out. Please contact an MCCA Director for details on how to apply.
