The Most Dangerous Word We Teach Our Children — “Later.”

There’s a lie we unknowingly teach children every day:

“Wait. You’re too young. Do it later.”

Later? Later when? After school? After college? After someone gives you permission?

The truth is, children are ready long before we think they are. Ready to lead, to start, to speak up, to fail and try again. The only thing standing between a child and their potential is the belief that they need to “grow up” before they can act.

But I’ve seen 10-year-olds run stalls, pitch ideas, write business plans, and speak to 100 parents in a hall. I’ve seen 12-year-olds understand customer behavior better than adults. I’ve seen 13-year-olds turn pocket money into passion projects.

The problem isn’t their readiness. It’s our hesitation.

A teacher facilitating a collaborative learning experience in a vibrant classroom setting.

The problem isn’t their readiness. It’s our hesitation.

Let’s stop telling children to wait. Let’s build a world that tells them: “You’re ready now. Let’s begin.”