True independence comes when we are confident in our being. However, the awareness of this doesn’t come to us in school. As we move towards adulthood, we learn this important skill after so many failures. We should make children independent from an early age itself. As a parent, we have to take steps towards building confidence in our children and eventually, autonomy.
Younger children rarely understand the concept of time management and being responsible for the tasks given to them. It is our duty as parents and facilitators that we develop these skills in them from the primary level. It is crucial that children are guided in the right direction to enable their sense of independence.
It will eventually help them to tackle the demand of adulthood and will even encourage them to recognize their mistakes. It is heartening to see the happiness and satisfaction on children’s faces when they do something on their own. Guide your children to be independent while enjoying their childhood as a long-term parenting goal.
Here are a Few Tips that will Help you in Doing So
1. Create a Structure and Encourage Discipline
It is easier for children to make decisions if they think in a sequence. A routine that is structured, that tells them what is needed to be done during the entire day helps the child make decisions in a controlled environment. The decision of how and when can lead the child to plan for a routine and stay disciplined if the child has a set of goals that need to be completed.
2. Allow Children to Make Their Own Decisions
Don’t comfort them from the hardships of life, let them make their own mistakes so that they are prepared for what’s coming up next. For a young child, parents can start this by making him/her decide what they want to do that day. Give them options and encourage them to complete the task as decided upon. It helps the child understand the importance of prioritizing and decision-making.
3. Take a Step Back
A child should know the value of self-reliance. As parents, you should encourage your child to be self-reliant so that they can handle the consequences of their actions. This, often means, taking a step back when necessary. Give them suggestions and positive reinforcement, but don’t intervene when they are making a mistake. It develops the skill of problem-solving.
Ask questions that involve substantial proof from children that will save them from a mistake. When you do this, you make the child accountable for finding solutions to their problems and also help them know when to ask for help if they are stuck.
4. Responsibility is Developed When Responsibility is Given
To make your children learn responsibility, ask them what responsibility they are willing to take and then assign it to them. For eg., you can ask them to set the table or organize their cupboards. These activities should be age-appropriate. This actually boosts their confidence and they take ownership of the choices they make.
5. Acknowledge And Applaud the Effort
When we do something on our own, it is exciting. The same goes for children. When they do something on their own, it actually makes them feel happy and satisfied. Give the child positive feedback when they complete a task and appreciate their efforts. It helps in building their confidence. A word of encouragement from parents can strengthen the child’s belief in his/her actions and can guide them in the direction of becoming confident and independent.
These habits should be adopted from an early age so that the child grows into a proactive and responsible adult. Help your children find their distinct personalities and let them blossom into wonderfully confident and independent beings.