How To Raise An Independent Child.

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Being independent is a great skill to give children when they’re managing their thoughts and feelings, as well as knowing how to be confident in the skills they already know. Independence should be taught over a long period of time and can come from pastoral care and wellbeing support in schools, to parent direction and guidance. 

 

To help your child learn to be independent, here are some top tips we recommend you can try today. 

 

Let your child make decisions 

When your child is able to talk and think for themselves you should be able to give them small tasks to do that will help with their decision making skills. Let them pick what they want to eat or what ice cream they’d like at the time. Give them the chance to pick out different games you could play together on a rainy day. Similarly, you can help your child decide on what you can all do as an activity on the weekends. 

 

Give your child a range of chores 

Provide your child with age appropriate chores that will help with their understanding of handling their own responsibilities. Helping with the dishes is a good starting point, as well as showing them how to mop the floor or sweep away any mess.  

In the same vein, you can remind your child to clean up after themselves when they’re eating or spending time in a room for a few hours. Ask them to tidy away their toys and pack them away and let them be in charge of cleaning their bedroom each week, so long as you keep an eye on if they actually do as you ask. 

 

Put trust in your child 

Trust also helps your child know that they can go about their business without feeling like they’re being watched. This helps a child manage their own tasks and know how to be responsible for themselves.