We're taking a bit of a combination approach to our kids. Our six year old is currently taking piano lessons, but he can make the decision to stop them if he wants. He's also free to choose another instrument. We didn't prod him into taking lessons, but it was our suggestion.
As far as physical activities go, we are letting him choose his path. We're avid climbers, and take our kids with us to the crag, but never force them to climb. Some days they insist on climbing, other days they're happy exploring the woods. Both kids love riding their bikes (which also fits with our lifestyle), and our older son has taken a liking to soccer (though again, we suggested he try it).
I think it's also important that parents provide the opportunity for their kids to have autonomy. If they aren't exposed to different things, they'll never take the initiative to be passionate about something.
>> I think it's also important that parents provide the opportunity for their kids to have autonomy. If they aren't exposed to different things, they'll never take the initiative to be passionate about something.
Right on. Our kids are a few years behind you (1,3) but my current thinking on this is that they have to do 1 physical activity and 1 other activity, but they can choose 'em.
I wish I could forget 3 years of forced piano lessons as a kid. :)
(I'm talking high-school age more than anytime soon, right now their job is all about playing and having fun.)
My parents didn't send me for piano lessons - the other 3 kids in the house went for them though. This meant I only got to start lessons at about 11 (might have been 12) when they realised I actually wanted to have them.
I really enjoyed playing but always felt an earlier start would have given me more chance to learn and progress with that instrument. In short I wish my parents had been more pushy with me (and not just in this as it happens).
As far as physical activities go, we are letting him choose his path. We're avid climbers, and take our kids with us to the crag, but never force them to climb. Some days they insist on climbing, other days they're happy exploring the woods. Both kids love riding their bikes (which also fits with our lifestyle), and our older son has taken a liking to soccer (though again, we suggested he try it).
I think it's also important that parents provide the opportunity for their kids to have autonomy. If they aren't exposed to different things, they'll never take the initiative to be passionate about something.