Young children rarely understand the concept of doing things on time and being responsible for their actions. Parents wonder how best to make their children independent without it being perceived as a punishment. It takes time to instill independence in them. Indeed, this trait must come from within. As a parent, you can nudge your children in the right direction by giving them some guidance. You can also let them discover their own independence, in their own way.

Why Children Should Learn to Be Independent ?

Your children are certainly old enough to fully enjoy their games, even with a crib businessBut learning a few life skills from a young age can prepare them for the demands of their future. It takes children a while to understand the concept of choice and make the right decision. Introducing choices from childhood helps them get to know themselves better and understand what would make them happy.

There will be times when your child won't do exactly what you expect of him. But if he's independent, he will recognize his mistakes. He will even come to you for support, and will be open to advice to improve one's abilities and gradually change one's habits. Self-esteem develops very early in every individual. And it can be stronger if the child begins to have confidence in himself and in his own decisions.

The difference between warning a child about danger and dealing with it themselves is important. Being independent allows your child to begin to learn things on one's own. But also, it allows him to be better informed as an individual of an age to evolve.

How to teach a child independence ?

There are many ways to teach your child to be independent. :

Give him responsibilities he can handle

Your child does not need to start take care of household finances or make big decisions. Independence must start with yourself, and that's where you can help. If you're planning a picnic and need your child's help, give them simple tasks. Let them also prepare your own luggage for a short trip of a weekend.

Avoid holding your child's hand all the time

Many parents often confuse child guidance with taking charge. They too often intervene in initiatives that come naturally to a child. You should definitely educate him from a young age, just giving him clear instructionsThis will make it easier for him to complete the task. Let him come to you if he needs help, rather than intervening unnecessarily.

Introduce choices with limited options

Asking your child what they'd like to eat at a restaurant from a wide variety of recipes can be overwhelming. Instead, choose a set of options from the menu and ask them to choose one from them. Starting with a narrower selection can help them narrow down to what they really need.

Let him make his own decisions sometimes

You may prefer your child to do their homework before going outside to play. But they may also prefer play first and do homework later. Give him some freedom in more restricted areas, such as choosing his clothes or his snack.

Have empathy for your child

Your child is just learning to be independent, and it's not easy for him. Above all, avoid scolding or putting him down, even if he can't do something simple. Be there to support and help him, if he asks you to, and without judging him.

Don't make failure a major problem

Children fail and make mistakes. And they might even repeat them despite your warnings. Avoid focusing on failure, and let the child know what they could have done better. Don't make a connection between the failure and themselves; this can be extremely damaging to their self-esteem.

Establish a proper routine

Children can have difficulty making decisions for themselves if they don't think sequentially. This problem can be easily remedied by establishing a fixed routine for them. For example, ask them every morning to help you prepare their things for the company daycare. Once the child knows what he has to do, at a given time, he will start doing it on his own.

Teach him negotiation

Many children tend to view the world as a winning and losing proposition. Open your child to the world of compromise and negotiation. He will begin to understand how to make the best of the situation presented to him. In particular, he can choose either the picnic location or the lunch menu. This will also help him set his own priorities.

Don't forget to encourage him

When the child does well the things he promised, don't hesitate to tell him how proud he makes youPositive feedback is essential in shaping one's personality. And validation from one's parents goes much further in this regard.

Tips for helping your child become independent