Old Rocks
Diamond Member
I grew up around logging camps and ranch country in Oregon and Washington. Many of the kids that I grew up with were operating farm machinery, or helping their fathers in the log woods at fourteen. Yes, there were some accidents. And some died. However, the death rate from those accidents were a lot less than the death rate from the drugs of this generation. Or,even, for that matter, that generation.
My wife and I are active in Venture Scouting. Much of the things these kids, both male and female, do involve degrees of risk. And when they are done have done some of the activities, whether it be rappeling, mountain biking, or canoe trips in the San Juans, they will have new skills and confidence.
Adolescents are natural at taking chances. They are going to take chances no matter what you wish them to do. You can either guide that into areas that will build skills, or you can let them find drugs, sex, and alcohol on their own. Not saying that those involved in these activities will not try all of the above. However, they will have experiance in judging risk and reward.
My wife and I are active in Venture Scouting. Much of the things these kids, both male and female, do involve degrees of risk. And when they are done have done some of the activities, whether it be rappeling, mountain biking, or canoe trips in the San Juans, they will have new skills and confidence.
Adolescents are natural at taking chances. They are going to take chances no matter what you wish them to do. You can either guide that into areas that will build skills, or you can let them find drugs, sex, and alcohol on their own. Not saying that those involved in these activities will not try all of the above. However, they will have experiance in judging risk and reward.