Should overprotective parents let their kids take risks once in a while?

Maybe we need to let our children take more risks.

Dr. Mariana Brussoni, an associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia, will talk about that in speech March 20 in Vernon.

“Rethinking Risk: Are children too safe for their own good?” is the latest presentation in the Okanagan College Vernon Campus Signature Speaker Series.

“It used to be normal for children to spend long hours outdoors and away from watchful adults, playing how and where they chose. Today’s children spend more time indoors, supervised, in structured activities and in front of screens,” says Brussoni. “Many parents struggle to find a balance between bubble wrapping their kids and not protecting them enough. Fears of strangers, traffic and social services can overwhelm parents, making it hard for them to let go.”

Research is mounting on the importance of giving kids more opportunities for “risky play,” considered thrilling and exciting play that includes children testing boundaries and flirting with uncertainty.

This can include climbing trees, building forts, playing capture the flag and roaming the neighbourhood with friends.

This kind of play is associated with positive health, development and well-being in children, including increased physical activity, social skills, risk management skills, resilience and self-confidence.

Brussoni’s presentation will explore the evidence regarding changing childhoods, as well as strategies to restore balance.

In addition to teaching at UBC, Brussoni also serves as an investigator with the British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the British Columbia Injury Research and Prevention Unit.

The speech takes place at 7:30 p.m. at the Vernon college campus. Admission is $10. Register online at okanagan.cb.ca/ SignatureSpeakers or pay at the door.