As parents, we are eager for our children to be independent. Don’t worry though if your child is not ready for the autonomy. As all children are naturally enthusiastic when it comes to doing things on their own – be it holding their own cups, walking on their own or feeding themselves, your child will eventually learn to be independent.
All you have to do is to take advantage of this natural eagerness and encourage them to enjoy independence, in the following ways.
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If you want your child to learn how to brush his teeth, read on his own or put things away after use, show him how you’d do it and be a good role model.
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Where possible, let your child demonstrate what he has learnt so he can eventually master the skill.
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Always praise and encourage by saying, “Well done” or “Let’s try again”, even if what your child has done is not up to your expectations. If your child wishes to help you clear the dustpan, thank them even though there dust is spilled along the way. With many more tries, he’ll soon do things right as practice makes perfect!
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Give your child all the time he needs. For example, while preparing for a picnic, give him enough time get dressed, put on his shoes, and pack the food.
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Correcting your child makes him think that he has not done well and his efforts are not appreciated. This may discourage him to try again. What you can do though is to guide them to self-correct. For example, after he has put on his socks, do not adjust it if the child has not fit them properly onto his feet. Instead, check with the child if he is comfortable after he has put on his shoes and tried walking. Ask him then if he needs to adjust his socks.
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Do not nag and criticise if your child has created a mess or did not meet your expectations. Try using rhymes to teach your child. You can make tooth-brushing fun by singing a rhyme like: “Open your mouth, 1, 2, 3. Up and down, 3, 2, 1.” You can also play simple games such as “Simon Says” to get children to put things in the right place.
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