At times I worry that I am too lax with Cole, letting him experience numerous tumbles at the playground resulting in a scraped knee or fat lip from running faster than his feet can keep pace with him. He is fearless and I worry that I am fostering a toddler who won't realize his limitations. Most times though I am so in awe of his continued strength and fortitude-his ability to take the inevitable falls, say "uh-oh", bounce back up, brush his hands off and forge ahead. He is such a determined little spirit.

I think my parenting style with Cole is working well. It is constantly evolving as he walks (or runs) through life. I think if he heard a warning every five minutes or felt my anxiety every time he might fall or fail, that he may very well fall or fail because I expect him too. That would be a very big fault on my part. So my motto is confidence breeds confidence and it seems to be a success as Cole skillfully navigates his world.

So when the other moms at the park throw a look in my direction as I let Cole climb higher or run full tilt with the resulting stumble, I let him prove them all wrong, as 90% of the time he glances my way looking for reaction; he receives a smile not a frantic reproach, he gathers himself together, gets a hug and kiss and is off scurrying around in play once again, the interruption to his momementum all but forgotten.