As I have said in my earlier post, teaching children to become independent is essential for their holistic development. It enables them to become better individuals, who know their worth, ready to face life challenges and trials, and focused in what they want to achieve. To achieve this goal, here are some ways on how to teach children to become independent.
Practice children to take decisions. Begin their self-independence training by letting them decide on issues they are involved. You can let them choose their food, clothes, toys, and other stuffs. Aside from choosing stuffs, you may also ask them on how they want to spend their day. To control their decision without being apparent, always give them a set of choices.
Encourage children to speak their mind. Besides, from asking their decision on things that directly involves them, you can also ask for their opinions on light topics. Show consideration for their opinions. This way, they will feel much more valued.
Prefer advising children in form of suggestions. Refrain from direct discussing musts and haves on children. Somehow, it discourages them to decide what is right and wrong on their own. Hence, teach your child through suggestions. Take patience in explaining things through cause and effects. Try to begin your advice with words like” maybe”, or “perhaps”. You may also tell them stories to teach them the consequences of wrong doings.
Support children for their individual hobbies and sports. If they want to attend a karate class, support them. Let them have their own pursuit in life. Hobbies and sports are good in teaching children the essence of discipline and focus. Encouraging children to pursue their interest is like giving them the freedom to live the way they want.
Show respect to children. Treat them as if they are one of the adults.