Childhood Independence to Help the Kids Sprout Strong
Childhood independence has numerous benefits that carry on into adulthood. Behavioral control, emotional intelligence, and general respect for others are to name a few. So, how do you help kids with this? From using pets to letting them explore options, here are some ideas.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
We live in a technologically advanced world, whether for good or bad! Most kids these days have some sort of daily interaction with computers, whether that’s desktops, laptops, or smartphones.
Tech can be used as a tool, and there are many apps and activities to encourage independence in your kids. Children need to study for tests such as Year 6 SPaG SATs. They may not want to sit with pen and paper. However, an online tool for test practice is more appealing.
Let the Kids Help with Pets
Caring for a pet is a big responsibility for children and adults. Introducing kids to animals like cats, dogs, and hamsters at an early age encourages compassion and teaches them about looking after something.
For example, you can allow them to have a pet, even if it’s a goldfish, so long as they promise to be the ones to care for it. This is why pets can be a massive help when you want your kids to be more independent. Be sure to buy small pets they can handle!
Childhood Independence Can Begin Early
It is never really too early to begin teaching a child. Encouraging independence in your toddler is essential as it helps with tantrums and emotional control. At around the age of two, your toddler will start becoming more independent anyway, so try these small tricks for an easier time:
- Let the children carry their own lunch boxes and backpacks for school.
- Teach them how to put away their toys after playing with them.
- Develop a routine for getting dressed and doing homework when old enough.
- Encourage toddlers to drink water and introduce them to healthy snacks.
Toddlers love to do things themselves, even something as simple as putting on their shoes. It makes them feel older and that they have choices. Children just want to be treated like adults and can’t wait to grow up. Of course, what we wouldn’t give to be a carefree child once more!
The Illusion of Choice
Children typically hate it when they feel like they are being dictated to! To handle this, giving them options and choices can help them feel more independent and learn how to make decisions. Of course, children might not realize you are offering the illusion of free will, but that’s just how it works, right?
For example, maybe your kids need to put on their coats, but they don’t want to. Offer them a selection of coats and allow them to pick their own. That’s a win-win!
Let Them Cook!
There are numerous skills that we all need. And cooking is one of them. So many adults don’t know how to cook even basic recipes because they were never taught this vital skill. Of course, you get better over time, and it’s never too late to learn.
However, introducing children to cooking develops healthy appetites and how food choices affect them. Kitchen independence is essential for children, as it also helps them stay aware of hazards so they can stay safe!
Summary
You can use techs such as software and apps to help with childhood independence. It’s never too early to start, and you can get great results working with your toddlers.
A vital and practical skill a child can learn is cooking. This will help through to adulthood and teaches safety as well.
