All children should feel loved and cared for which makes it challenging for parents to begin to step away and allow their child to learn about independence, however, there is no definite answer as to when a child should become independent. Parents should softly encourage independence throughout a child’s development with age-appropriate methods.
What Does Giving Your Child More Independence Mean?
At its core, independence involves cherishing and valuing your children as autonomous individuals, expressing belief in their capabilities, and instilling the understanding that they wield control over their own lives. By embracing these principles, you cultivate independence in your children, laying the foundation for them to evolve into self-sufficient adults. When it comes to youngsters, independence entails exploring novel experiences, increased responsibilities, making independent decisions and embarking on a journey of self-discovery to shape their identities and aspirations.
What are the Benefits of Giving Children More Responsibility?
It’s important to be aware that children are actually more capable than we might assume. Some benefits of giving a child more responsibility and independence include building their self-esteem and developing life skills, however, knowing which tasks are suitable for each development stage in your child’s life is important. Below are categorised activities that children are capable of doing across different age groups.
Pre-Kindergarten
There are a handful of things that your youngster can start doing independently at this age and the most beneficial is organising a drop-off playdate where your child will be independently interacting with one of their friends outside of your company. This can be daunting, so it’s important to note that your child should play with a friend from kindy or someone they already know from the neighbourhood.
What are the Benefits of Drop-Off Playdates?
Your child will learn how to socialise and become more independent as they play without your supervision. The key aspect of drop-off playdates includes having your child learn how to socialise, take turns, problem-solve and discover emotional empathy. Furthermore, children who interact with one another are exposed to new ideas and experiences which can increase their curiosity.
How to Foster Independence for a 4 – 6 Years OldChild
Ensuring that children aged between 4-6 years old are given opportunities for decision-making is crucial to boosting their self-confidence and this can be done through assigning age-appropriate tasks that promote independence. Some tasks include allowing them to dress themselves, tidying up after playing with toys, setting the table, watering plants, feeding or assisting with pet grooming tasks and allowing your child to help you make simple snacks. At this age, a routine which includes making their bed and other tasks will foster independence.
Benefits of Routine for 4-6-Year-Olds
When your child has consistency in their life and a daily routine, it will encourage healthy habits such as brushing their teeth or washing their hands, which will be taken with them into adulthood. By having a predictable routine, your child might feel less restless and more in control of their day, which can reduce anxiety or stress.
What Does Independence Look Like at 6 – 8 Years Old
By the age of six, children will have already started school and should now have a high level of independence. Be mindful that children still rely on their guardians to assist them with many tasks, such as homework and emotional support, too. Some things that 6+-year-olds are capable of doing are peeling fruits and vegetables, riding a bike, bathing themselves and tying their shoelaces. It is not unusual for children at this age to become interested in using technology where they can play games or watch videos, this must be done with adult assistance so that the content they are reaching is age-appropriate.
Independence in 8 – 10 Year Old Children
Children who are around 8 years old might be ready to have a sleepover, attend an overnight camp or even walk to school alone (so long as the conditions are safe). At this age, their independence really starts to shine through as they do not rely on their parents or guardians quite the same way as younger children do. At this age, it is common that your child might be interested in using technology, tablets and mobile phones to interact with their friends. To ensure that your child is using the internet safely, it is important to provide them with a device that has a parental lock system which will restrict the use of certain apps, photos or videos from appearing.
