As well as what they’re taught at school, your child will need to develop life skills and learn how to be independent. While you’re able to support them now, there will be times where they need to do things for themselves and assume responsibility. Like learning all skills, they will take time to develop which is why practice is important and chores are a great way to do this. We’ve included some tips on how you can help your child become more independent below.
Lead By Example
Children naturally look up to their parents and want to be like them. By being a strong, independent figure in their lives, they will likely aspire to be the same. Demonstrating a good work ethic and willingness to learn new things are a few ways in which you can do this.
Accountability
To be independent, your child will need to be accountable for their actions and accept their responsibilities. At their age, there are several commitments that they can make and adhere to like extracurricular activities, chores, and friendships.
Don’t Wrap Them Up in Cotton Wool
While it may be tempting to do everything yourself, it’s important that you give your child the opportunity to learn and develop their skills so that one day they can be self-sufficient.
Let them Take Some Risk
Following on from the last point, risks are necessary for growth and allowing your child to make small, calculated risks can help them to be optimistic and less fearful of doing things by themselves.
Choosing The Right Words
Lastly, we have encouragement and praise. As their parent, you are your child’s biggest motivator and the words that you use can greatly affect their confidence and willingness to try new things. If you’re overly protective, negative and don’t use praise, your child will likely become pessimistic and less likely to explore their independence.