Guiding Your Child to Self Reliance

Guiding Your Child to Self Reliance

Have you ever noticed that your child cries if you act too quickly to do something for or to him/her?  Early in each child’s development the will begins to form and expresses itself.  When life becomes unexpected the will has little chance to prepare adequately.  Helping the child prepare for change helps the child feel ready and secure to learn new things.

Parents may realize that they are role models for their little ones because the child wants to do things just like mom and dad.  This very valuable sensitive period impacts the independence and motivational level of your child’s spirit and remains with them for the rest of their lives.  

The following suggestions are thoughts that explain some possible methods of increasing your child’s development of the will and motivations to be independent at home.

·  Encourage your child to try to do things themselves.   Show them the safe/best way first then stay close to observe their efforts.  Help out in minimal ways to ensure the child's success.  Gradually decrease your help till the child is working on their own.
· Avoid asking the question that ends” with OK”?.  This leads to the opportunity for the child to respond with “No!”. 

·  Role model the mannerisms, behaviors and language that you want your child to use.   Children want to do everything just like you.  So be aware of your own behavior in front of the children.  They watch, learn, and repeat real life experiences that they participate in.

·  If something needs carried have your little one take one corner of the item and demonstrate how it gets put away.
·  As you work on a specific task have your children watch what you are doing.  Observe your child as you show how to do an activity or task.  If they are avidly interested they will be watching every move you make.   If the child is not watching, be aware that they are probably not developmentally ready for the task at hand.

·  When you have a child who is just beginning to stand and move around, engage them in your work.  Talk about what you are doing and how it is done.  Use your best language skills.

·  When putting on a Toddler’s diaper or trousers have them stand, put their hand on your shoulder and have them help put their feet into the legs.  Take your time so that the child learns to control his/her balance.

This is just a few suggestions that might help your child work towards independence and self reliance.  When a child is able succeed at small tasks they gain confidence and learn to trust their own abilities.  Always remember that the safety of the child lies in the proximity and watchfulness of the adult. Thank you for everything you do that helps your child to grow and become.

Gail Moore