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04 March 2010
Challenge by choice allows a young person the opportunity to explore new territory, deal with fear and accept help and support from others. While challenge presents an opportunity for change and success, there is also the possibility for pushing too far, and setting back the opportunities for growth.
Whenever an Instructor makes choices for individuals it can have the effect of taking away a persons decision making powers and potential learning opportunities which may result.
Some ideas for presenting Challenge by Choice:
- Use the analogy of climbing a ladder - some people make it to the top and want more, others get three rungs up and that’s enough for them. The important thing is to push yourself further than you previously thought possible - height is not the issue.
- Explain that everyone has fears - heights, spiders, public speaking and dentists ! Someone who can climb to the top of a ladder might never want to hold a spider or go under ground caving. Encourage, but don’t use peer pressure to make others go further.
- An attempt is more significant than performance results, emphasising respect for ideas and choices.
- Using the description of a comfort zone may be a useful way to help explain
Challenge by Choice can be presented in many different ways, depending on the needs of the group. The main aim should be to reassure and reduce fear.
It is essential that we all constantly question our motives for challenging young people.
This material taken and adapted from Advisory Association for Ropes Courses and Initiatives, 1996.
