5 Ways to Raise an Independent Child
As parents, we want our kids to learn to be independent. But what does that mean and how do you do it? Helping our little ones build confidence and the skills they need to navigate the world on their own is important but we also want them to know we’ve got their back.
Here are 5 Ways to Raise an Independent Child and help you encourage independence in your child while still staying close.
1. Create an Independent Environment. Let children help themselves. Start with things they can easily manage like getting dressed, making their bed and pouring themselves a drink or getting a snack. Don’t help them unless they are completely unable to get something done themselves.
2. Recognize an Achievement. Praise children for completing a task on their own that they may have struggled with. It doesn’t matter how small or large the achievement is, let them know they did a great job and encourage them to do it again.
3. Create structures and routines. Physical structures and routines in their schedule can be very beneficial in creating independence. It makes them feel more responsible and it builds their self-confidence. Create a space for your child to place all of their school belongings including backpacks, coats, shoes and umbrellas, someplace they can call their own and know that is where their things belong. Carry this idea over to their bedroom where their clothes and toys have a place they need to be. Create a morning and evening routing with your child that helps them get ready for school and get ready for bed.
4. Teach them how to problem-solve. When your kids ask for help, don’t automatically solve the problem. Instead, encourage them to work through the problem on their own by coaching them with questions that will help them reach a solution. Take the time and teach them. Our kids have a lot more skills than we give them credit for so help them feel confident in their skills by showing them how to solve their own problem.
5. Find the Courage to Let Go. As parents, we want to protect and hold on to our kids, but we need to show them that we have confidence in their ability. It’s easy to say and not so easy to do, but sometimes this can be the biggest act of love we can ever give our child.