It is in our nature as parents to protect our children, but that protection can sometimes serve as a double edged sword. Try as we might, we can’t always be there. Sooner or later our child(ren) will find themselve(s) in a situation where they are challenged, and we have to hope the skills and the values we have instilled in them are enough to carry them through.
How do we prepare for it?
Either we challenge them ourselves or we place them in situations where they are challenged, ideally when we are still there to be able to catch them if they stumble or fall.
One of the things I enjoy most about teaching martial arts is the ability to provide challenging situations in a safe environment. Whether that is forcing students to face failure and rise above, or pushing students further than they knew they could go, kids and even adults are better prepared to face the curve balls life throws us because of the experience.