8 Ways to Foster Independence in your kids!

July 4th is just around the corner.  I know it sounds kind of corny, but I use the holiday to reflect on my children’s growing independence.  It’s an easy way for me to remember to take stock of where they are on the journey to living on their own as capable, independent adults. 
Fostering Independence in our children is important starting at an early age. It can be tricky to find the balance between doing things for them and finding opportunities for them to do things on their own. Even when it’s HARD.
Here are some handy tips to get you started:

• Start early. You can start fostering independence in your child from a young age. Even toddlers can learn to do simple things like put on their own shoes or pick up their toys. It’s also never too late to start.
• Give your child choices. When you give your child choices, you're teaching them that they have some control over their own lives. This can be as simple as asking them what they want for breakfast or what activity they want to do after school.
• Let your child make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, and it's important that your child learns how to deal with them. When your child makes a mistake, don't be too quick to swoop in and fix it for them. Instead, help them to figure out how to fix it themselves. Start by brainstorming solutions.
• Allow them to Contribute. Chores are a great way to teach your child responsibility and independence. Start by assigning them simple chores that they can do independently, and gradually increase the difficulty as they get older.
• Be patient. It takes time for children to develop independence. Don't get frustrated if your child doesn't seem to be getting it right away. Just keep providing them with opportunities to practice, and they'll eventually get the hang of it.

• Be supportive. When your child is trying to do something independently, be there to offer support and encouragement. But don't do it for them! Let them figure it out on their own, with your help if needed.
• Celebrate successes. When your child does something independently, be sure to celebrate their success.
• Use your resources to guide you. Here is a helpful list of independent tasks by ages to guide you. Keep in mind that while guides can be helpful to keeping you on track, that every child and family situation is different.  You know best the roadmap to independence for your own child. 

While you are celebrating Independence Day over this long holiday weekend, take a few minutes to reflect on where your kids are on their own journey to independence and decide what steps you’ll take to help them along the way. 
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Happy July 4th! 

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