INDEPENDENCE
Gaining independence and mastering new skills are important parts of child development.
Providing opportunities for exploration, encouraging curiosity and engaging children in a variety of daily rich experiences will help their level of independence, along with other skills, grow at a fast pace.
At school, Alpha boys and girls are encouraged to do things on their own. They truly like it and are proud of all their achievements throughout the day. We can often hear them saying: “I can do it.”, “Let me do it.”, “Look, I did it.”.
How can parents continue fostering
independence at home?
Here are some practical ways:
Ø Never do for children what they can by themselves.
When your child is doing something on his/her own, it might take much longer and require some coaching, but resist the urge to take over. Allowing time to get tasks done is crucial.
Ø Offer choices.
Part of being independent is to make choices. Instead of asking open ended questions, such as what your child wants to eat, offer two options that are healthy and available at the time. It will allow them to make good choices and parents will still be in control.
Ø Children can be responsible for simple age-appropriate tasks.
Encourage your child to help care for themselves and their belongings.
Ø Offer a safe and manageable environment.
Children should know the areas where they can play and explore, and also be responsible for organising these areas. Having places with easy access helps during tidy up time.
Ø Praise your child’s efforts and actions.
Praise even the smallest accomplishments. It supports your child in facing challenges positively and becoming confident and strong.
And most important, find positive in the negative. When your child does not succeed at something, talk about problem solving solutions and help him/her try it in another way. Not being afraid of making mistakes is essential.
Check out our little ones in action:
Doing things by themselves
Washing hands.
Eating.
Helping themselves.
Opening and closing the tap.
Helping friends put their smocks on.
Putting on their socks.
Putting on their shoes.
Peeling bananas.
Unpacking and packing their backpacks.
Putting their backpacks in their lockers.
