Independence is an experience that many kids strive for. This is commonly observed since many children often want to get out of their parents’ guiding hands. They want to explore and this is seen at a very tender age.

Parents often feel happy to see that their children learn how to make decisions for themselves. However, one cannot take away the fear of getting the child hurt due to lack of guidance. Adults often see children as fragile, thus, they cannot manage themselves properly. Sometimes, being overprotective is not at all that helpful since it does not develop self-esteem and confidence.

Parents should allow their kids to have some freedom if kids are to be developed. It has been said that freedom and independence should be encouraged in children. Children will be more responsible for their actions if their confidence is developed and this confidence will only emerge if the parents are not overprotective.

Children who do not feel good about themselves are not likely to make decisions. They will always feel afraid of taking ownership and accountability for their actions. Parents should always encourage confidence and boost morale.

Instill Independence Among Children

Independence has a catch. There should be levels of independence granted to children or else they may abuse their newly found freedom. As a general rule, the independent tasks that should be given to children are tasks that they can accomplish based on their age.

Below you will see some simple ways to allow kids to have independence that is still within a controlled environment. What can be done is to practice these things not on a daily basis but at least regularly.

– Let the kids make their own breakfast with bread and butter. Other than developing independence, this is also a fun experience for the kids;

– Teach the kids to make their own beds in the morning;

– Allow the children to put their shoes on and tie their shoelaces and then teach them the right way if they did not do it right;

– Allow the children to shower by themselves and undress themselves before showering;

– Allow them to choose what to wear at home and at occasions;

– Allow them to wear the dress by themselves; and

– Allow them decide what to pack in their bags.

You will observe that once kids are used to accomplishing simple tasks such as these, they will become more independent and self-sufficient. This is how they get prepared as they get older. Without training kids how to make decisions, they may grow old with anxiety and fear.

When children start doing things among themselves, parents and adults should recognize these efforts to encourage them to pursue the same actions.

Your Guide to Children’s Independence

Below you will find basic tips on guiding your kids to be progressively independent.

1) Provide Opportunities

It is important that parents provide opportunities for kids to practice independence and hone their decision-making skills. There were tasks mentioned earlier and those are good ways to start learning independence.

2) Show How to Make Decisions

Parents and adults should allow kids to make decisions by giving them choices. This will help kids learn how to make tougher decisions as they grow older. Of course, the choices should be minimal so the children will not be confused.

3) Boost Kids’ Confidence

Children, and even adults, who are not confident in making decisions, are also insecure. What happens normally is that kids of this sort will be very clingy to their parents. They rely too much on their parents and this can be annoying at times. It is therefore important that parents should boost the morale and confidence of their kids so the kids are confident in facing new challenges and making decisions.

4) Model Independence

We all know that children look up to adults, especially their parents, in developing their styles and behaviours. What matters is that the kids see good examples of independence. This can be demonstrated by allowing them to watch adults complete day-to-day tasks so they can learn.

5) Praise Your Children

Children are often developed better through positive reinforcement. Kids feel happy if they receive praises. Every time the kids accomplish something, praise them and show them how good they were in accomplishing something. This will motivate them to do better and learn to be independent.

6) Develop Problem Solving Skills

Children should develop their problem skills as early as possible. Being successful at this develops confidence and allows them to practice critical thinking. Soon, one will realize that the kids are not going to grow up lacking self-esteem.

Source: www.child-central.com