Raising Independent Toddlers
Helping Your Toddler Find Their Wings
Here is my own experience of bringing up self-reliant young children.
When my niece was two years old, she loved play with her toys, climb trees and run about the garden for hours.
She injured her knee while playing outside one day when she slipped and fell. I rushed outside to investigate as she started to wail.
I took her up and gave her comfort. I bandaged her wound after cleaning it. I then convinced her that all was going to go good.
She replied, “I could handle it on myself.”
I surprisedly turned to face her. She had never experienced that before.
I said, smiling, “Yes, you could do it on your own.
I gave her a seat. Help me to help myself ! This is what toddlers feel like saying most of the time. This simply means that we adults need to set up things for our child so they can be successful by themselves.
Here are some interesting suggestions for teaching your youngster to take care of themselves:
Create a safe space so our child can be independent:
-> Set up a dedicated space: A safe and comfy haven where your child can explore and learn.
-> Set clear ground rules: Simple and easy-to-follow guidelines to keep your child safe and happy.
-> Be there for them, but from a distance: Let your child know you’re close by if they need you, but respect their privacy and let them explore independently.
Step in when you know the child needs help:
It’s critical to reassure kids that you have their best interests in mind and are available to assist them when they need it most.
Offer the minimal help and step back for them to continue independently:
-> Determine the requirements of the kid.
What are they having trouble with?
What abilities must kids acquire to become more independent?
-> You may adapt your assistance to them after you have gained a thorough understanding of their requirements. Just sufficient help should be given to enable success.
-> Don’t assist them with tasks they can complete themselves. Instead, provide direction, inspiration, and support. Remain apart and let them attempt.
Read articles that will assist you:
-> There are numerous excellent books for kids that emphasize the value of looking out for oneself.
-> Your child may learn why it’s vital to be self-sufficient and to acquire new abilities by reading these books with you.
Stay patient as the child will take more time than we do:
-> Do not forget that your youngster is still growing.
-> Children require time to acquire knowledge and develop since they are not born knowing everything.
-> As kids pick up new skills, it’s crucial to be understanding and patient with them. Show them what to do instead of pointing out their mistakes.
-> A more effective technique to teach and assist youngsters in learning is to demonstrate what to do rather than criticizing their errors.
-> When you correct a child’s error, it may leave them disappointed and uninspired. Show them how to do things the right way instead. They will get knowledge from this and get better.
Independence is what toddlers need most of the time. But we end up overdoing things for them. Raising independent toddlers is not always easy, but it is rewarding.
