7 Ways to Encourage Children in Trying Out New Activities
- Pei Wen
- Jan 18, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 19
Trying new things is a fundamental part of childhood — it’s how little ones explore the world, learn vital life skills, and build the confidence to face challenges as they grow. Yet, not every child feels naturally comfortable stepping into new experiences. Some may hesitate, while others might shy away from unfamiliar situations altogether. This is perfectly normal — and with the right environment, encouragement, and guidance, children can learn to embrace change with excitement rather than fear.
At Genesis Childcare 1989, one of the most trusted names in Tampines child care, we understand that every new experience — no matter how small — shapes a child’s growth. Whether a baby is starting their first steps in our Tampines infant care, or a preschooler is exploring creative activities in our Tampines preschool and Tampines nursery, our educators gently guide them toward discovery, resilience, and joy. Here’s how parents and educators alike can help children open their minds and hearts to new experiences.
1. Lead by Example: Show Enthusiasm for Learning
Children are keen observers. They often mirror what they see in adults — especially parents and caregivers. When you demonstrate curiosity, courage, and a willingness to try something new, your child learns to view new experiences as exciting opportunities rather than intimidating obstacles.
For instance, if you show openness to trying new foods, exploring new hobbies, or meeting new people, your child will likely adopt that same mindset. At Genesis Childcare 1989, we model this daily. Our teachers regularly introduce new games, learning tools, and hands-on activities to show children that learning is an adventure.
In our Tampines preschool and Tampines nursery, teachers participate alongside the children — painting, singing, or discovering nature together. This shared sense of curiosity fosters not only a love of learning but also a strong emotional bond between the educators and the children.
2. Encourage Independence: Give Children the Power to Choose
Independence builds confidence — and confidence fuels courage. Children thrive when they feel that their opinions matter and that they have a say in their own experiences.
Start by giving your child simple choices. Let them pick what game to play, which outfit to wear, or what snack to eat. Small decisions can help them feel empowered and more prepared to make bigger choices later on.
At Genesis Childcare 1989, children in our Tampines child care programs are encouraged to take part in decision-making every day. Whether it’s choosing between outdoor play or a storytelling session, these moments teach them responsibility, self-trust, and autonomy within safe boundaries.
In our Tampines nursery, for example, educators gently guide toddlers to explore their interests while ensuring they stay within a supportive and structured environment. This balance between freedom and guidance helps children develop independence in a way that feels safe and rewarding.
3. Gradually Increase the Level of Challenge
Growth happens step by step. Children often need time to build up the confidence to face more complex challenges. Instead of expecting instant success, start with small, manageable experiences that gradually grow in difficulty.
If your child feels nervous about sports, for instance, begin with casual playtime in the park. As they gain comfort, you can introduce structured classes or friendly competitions.
In our Tampines preschool and Tampines child care programs, activities are thoughtfully designed with progressive learning in mind. Our curriculum encourages children to take small, achievable steps in mastering skills — from holding a paintbrush to performing in front of their peers. As they experience success in each stage, they learn that effort leads to growth, and growth leads to pride.
By the time children transition from our Tampines nursery to our preschool, they have already developed the self-assurance to embrace new experiences — whether academic, artistic, or social.
4. Celebrate Every Success — Big or Small
Acknowledgment is a powerful motivator. When children feel proud of their achievements, they become more eager to take on new challenges.
Celebrate not just results but also effort. Whether your child learns to ride a bike, tries a new vegetable, or participates in a group activity, take a moment to recognize their courage. Positive reinforcement, like saying “I’m proud of how you tried,” can have a lasting impact on their confidence.
At Genesis Childcare 1989, we make celebration part of our culture. Every child’s milestone — from a baby’s first steps in our Tampines infant care to a preschooler’s completed art project — is acknowledged with genuine encouragement. Teachers regularly use praise and storytelling to highlight each child’s progress, making them feel seen, valued, and capable.
5. Offer Consistent Support and Encouragement
New experiences can be overwhelming for children. What they need most is reassurance — knowing that someone believes in them.
Parents and educators should offer calm support, especially when a child feels nervous or hesitant. At home, this might mean sitting with your child while they attempt a new puzzle or cheering them on from the sidelines.
At Genesis Childcare 1989, our educators take this approach to heart. In our Tampines infant care and Tampines nursery, caregivers provide gentle encouragement through smiles, hugs, and comforting words. In our Tampines child care and Tampines preschool, teachers use positive reinforcement to help children overcome self-doubt.
When a child feels safe, supported, and understood, they’re more willing to take risks, try new things, and trust their ability to succeed.
6. Practice Patience: Growth Takes Time
Trying new things is not always easy — and progress doesn’t happen overnight. Children develop at different paces, and it’s important for parents and educators to remain patient and understanding.
Avoid pressuring your child to achieve perfection immediately. Instead, focus on steady growth and emotional safety. A calm, accepting environment allows children to learn from setbacks without fear of failure.
At Genesis Childcare 1989, patience is woven into our teaching philosophy. Our educators recognize that every child has their own rhythm of learning. Whether it’s a toddler learning to speak in our Tampines nursery or a preschooler practicing fine motor skills, we provide encouragement without rush. This gentle guidance helps children feel confident enough to keep trying, even when challenges arise.
7. Foster a Growth Mindset
A “growth mindset” — the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and persistence — is one of the most valuable lessons a child can learn.
Children with this mindset don’t view challenges as threats but as opportunities to learn. They understand that mistakes are part of progress and that effort is what truly counts.
Parents can help by emphasizing effort over perfection. Instead of saying, “You’re so smart,” try saying, “You worked hard on that!” This teaches children to value determination and resilience.
At Genesis Childcare 1989, we nurture this mindset from the very beginning. Our programs in Tampines preschool and Tampines child care encourage exploration, experimentation, and problem-solving. Teachers guide children to reflect on what they learned from each activity — not just whether they got it right. This approach helps children grow into confident, adaptable learners who embrace new experiences with enthusiasm.
8. Creating an Environment That Encourages Trying Out New Activities
One of the reasons families in Tampines trust Genesis Childcare 1989 is our holistic, nurturing approach. We don’t just provide a safe environment — we cultivate a space where children feel free to wonder, explore, and trying out new activities.
Our Tampines infant care center introduces sensory play and discovery-based learning from the earliest stages, sparking curiosity in every little mind. As children grow into our Tampines nursery and Tampines preschool programs, we introduce hands-on experiences that promote creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving — essential skills for lifelong learning.
Through structured activities, imaginative play, and gentle guidance, we help children see that the world is full of exciting opportunities waiting to be explored.
Final Thoughts
Encouraging children to try new things is one of the most meaningful gifts parents and educators can give. It builds confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning. At Genesis Childcare 1989, we believe every child deserves the chance to explore their potential in a supportive and joyful environment.
Whether your little one is starting their learning journey in our Tampines infant care, taking their first steps toward independence in our Tampines nursery, or preparing for school readiness in our Tampines preschool, our mission remains the same: to nurture confident, curious, and capable learners ready to embrace the world.
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Genesis Tampines Childcare 1989 is one of the best preschool and childcare in Tampines. Our Preschool Tampines have over 30 years of experience in nurturing thousands of infants, toddlers and preschoolers. At our Tampines Childcare, we advocate that every child is unique and precious who needs to be loved and cherished.
As a leading early childhood center in Singapore since 1989, we are committed to nurturing our early learners holistically through various learning areas and positive learning dispositions. We place a strong emphasis on the way our teachers facilitate and interact with the children.
Our Childcare Tampines believe that every child is unique and precious who needs to be loved and cherished. Hence, our holistic curriculum aims to create meaningful learning experiences for each and every one of them!
Our Playgroup Tampines provides parents with the confidence that their children are in the good hands of our trained and caring teachers.
Our professional team of preschool teachers has a good understanding of child development and learning principles. We apply them efficiently and set the stage to create a meaningful learning experience that supports your child's discovery.
We consistently create a positive and cozy environment that will give your child a sense of security which builds their self-confidence to explore the world around them.
If you are looking for a good Tampines infant care or Tampines preschool or Tampines childcare near Tampines Central, do consider Nurture Infant House or Genesis Childcare 1989.
Located alongside our childcare in Tampines is our Nurture Infant House. If you are looking for Tampines infant care or infant care in Tampines, do visit Nurture Infant House. It is for infants aged 2 months to 18 months old. You can learn more about our infant care Tampines here.
Lastly, would you like to visit our Genesis Childcare 1989 to find out more about our environment and setup as well as understand our operations by talking to our teachers and supervisor?
Genesis Childcare 1989 (Playgroup to Kindergarten 2)
Blk 433 Tampines Street 43 #01-63/65 S(520433)
Nurture Infant House (2 to 18 months Infants)
Blk 433 Tampines Street 43 #01-61 S(520433)
Opening hours: Monday to Friday (7am to 7pm) & Saturday (7am to 2pm)
Public Bus services: 8 / 21 / 28 / 29 / 293
Tel: 96664141
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