Learning a new skill is difficult. In the beginning, enthusiasm propels us. It's new and exciting, and we are making progress quickly.

But learning is never a linear endeavor. Our motivation fluctuates. Distractions and other interests show up. 

Setbacks and plateaux are inevitable.

A son learning to bike finally drops the training wheels and falls. A daughter learning the French horn can't play the piece she thought she knew to play the week before.

These periods of stagnation or even regression are frustrating precisely because they follow times of evident progress. We thought we were on our way, and suddenly, the boat was rocked.

When they encounter a plateau, kids are quick to say, "I will never manage," and they really mean it. And if you let them, they will quit on the spot. To them, it's a logical decision; why spend energy if you feel no hope?

Fortunately, dads know that temporary stagnation is a natural part of the learning process and that the secret is often merely to keep going.

Our kids will also learn this secret, but in the meantime, we can help them by being an external source of encouragement.

By cheering and gently pushing them to continue past the temporary setback, we support them in discovering the value of persistence.

To visualize the light on the other side of resistance.