Ways to Promote Independence in Kids
If y’all are anything like me, the thought of your kids growing up too quickly scares you more than most nightmares. To us, they’ll always be our babies, and they’ll always have our support and guidance when they need it throughout their lives. However, there comes a time in every child’s development when they need to start experimenting with independence. As a parent, it’s my job to provide them with the tools they need to succeed on their own. These are just a few of my ways to promote independence in kids.
Assign Them Their Own Daily Tasks or Chores
Depending on how old your child is, you might find that they can take on more responsibilities. When they’re younger, these tasks might be as basic as brushing their own teeth or getting themselves dressed. No matter which responsibilities you decide to start them with, mundane tasks teach children how to care for themselves. These chores can even grant them a sense of achievement for mastering their environment—I know they have with my kids.
Involve Them With Planning Family Events and Shopping
Though my kids constantly search for their next sugar high, I find it crucial that I take them shopping with me. Not only do I get to teach them how to grocery shop, but I also get to show them the process of choosing a meal and hunting for ingredients. In a sense, it turns into an all-inclusive scavenger hunt where my kids feel like they have some say in what I buy.
Expose Them to Public Transportation
While this prospect might initially seem like a scary thought, hear me out. Public transportation actually offers multiple developmental benefits for kids such as cognitive growth, social stimulation, and even physical activity. I try to make it a point to bring my kids along on public transit outings as a way of exposing them to something new. Just make sure you to keep a close eye on them so that they don’t wander off.
Encourage More Activities Without Parents
As kids get older, it’s only natural for them to pull away from their parents to pursue their own interests and make their own friends. As stressful as this time can be, it’s essential for them to discover how to act when not in their parent’s company. It’s for this reason that I support the occasional sleepover or night out at the movies, as they give my child a taste of the independence they need to develop.
These are just some ways that you can promote independence in kids. Tell me do you have any other suggestions?
