Avoiders like to feel safe and comfortable. This might be because they have had difficult experiences which have made them wary of getting out of their comfort zone. This is perfectly natural. But how can you gently encourage them to take some small risks so that they can grow in confidence?

Here's a summary of key avoider features:

Your child wants to feel safe and comfortable. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that. But they need to learn that they can cope with discomfort.

Taking calculated risks can lead to massive growth in confidence and happiness, but it does involve facing discomfort. Staying comfortable at all times does not lead to healthy emotional growth or happiness.

When one child struggles to try new things or do things outside their comfort zone, this can affect the whole family.

You may find yourself adapting what you do as a family, to reduce stress and ensure your child isn't left out.

Be cautious of avoiding too many things to make your child comfortable. Before you know it, you may find that you only do "safe" things as a family and you do not have the happy, fun family life you are aiming for.