Nurturing a child can be likened to a dance, where we must skillfully balance between holding them back and granting them the freedom to explore.
This analogy proves invaluable when fostering independence and self-sufficiency in young individuals. As responsible adults, we serve as their guides and role models, mindful not to stifle them with excessive criticism, demands, or anxieties.
1. Don’t do things for them.
In some situations, you may be in a hurry and it may be more simple to do things yourself rather than waiting for your children to do them. But, this type of behavior can have negative consequences for the development of children’s independence in the long run. Children learn by doing and by making mistakes, so it is very important to give them the opportunity to do things for themselves and not deprive them of these learning moments. In addition, you will be fostering the discovery of self-confidence and self-assurance.
2. Celebrate their daily achievements
It can happen that we are so immersed in our daily activities that we lose sight of our children’s achievements. It is important to keep in mind that the youngest members of our family need our attention and recognition every time they achieve a goal. We are not talking about huge achievements, like winning a soccer tournament or becoming the champion of a math competition, we are talking about smaller accomplishments, like finishing a homework assignment on their own or brushing their teeth properly. If we are there to celebrate this progress, we will help them improve their self-esteem.
3. Let them help with household chores
Children can learn a lot from your experience with household chores. Getting involved helps them understand what they need to do to take care of themselves, the house, and their family. It also gives them a chance to feel responsible and competent. Of course, not all chores are suitable for all ages, here are some ideas according to the stage your children are at:
2-3 years
- Pick up toys and books.
- Put clothes on clothes hooks.
- Set placemats on the dinner table.
4-5 years
- Set the table for meals.
- Help with preparing meals (under supervision).
- Help with grocery shopping and putting away groceries.
6-11 years
- Water the garden and indoor plants.
- Take out the trash.
- Vacuum or sweep floors.
4. Let them make small decisions
Developing decision-making skills is paramount for children to grow into mature and well-rounded adults. It is ideal to provide them with a range of choices and gradually expand their options as they grow older. For instance, when accompanied by a 3-year-old who desires all the treats at a store, you can kindly explain that they cannot have everything, but they do have the freedom to choose between candy, soda, or snacks.
Another effective approach to foster decision-making in our children is to allow them to select their own clothing. This empowers them to build self-esteem, express their opinions, and simplifies matters for you.
5. Bringing a pet into the house
Fluffy and cuddly pets have multiple benefits for children’s development. But when it comes to bringing a pet into the house, it is important that the children understand all the responsibilities involved. Feeding the pet, for example, could be a good way for children to practice the role of a caregiver. In addition, playing with the animal can improve your children’s social skills and reinforce their self-esteem.
6. At least once a month, give them a new challenge
Facing challenges is very important for children to feel self-confident. Therefore, a good option is to propose new challenges that they are capable of overcoming according to their age, abilities, and development. For example, you can ask 3-year-olds to dress themselves, draw a picture, or sing a song.
7. Be patient and do not criticize their attempts
When we do something for the first time, we are likely to make mistakes and have to make several attempts until we get what we want. If that happens to us as adults, imagine how often it can happen to children. Therefore, it is essential that we have patience with them and praise their attempts instead of criticizing them. Constant criticism and correction will only make children form a bad self-image and feel incapable. Applied in a timely and measured manner, praise can be a great tool to enhance their self-esteem and raise confident and mature little people.
8. Teach them how to do a task so that they can learn it better
You are your children’s first teacher, so if you want them to perform a particular task, you should teach them how to do it first. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and not do it simply because they don’t know how. First, tell them what they have to do. Second, show them how to do it. And third, go through it step-by-step. In general, children learn much easier if they can see adults do things. If you lead by example, your children will feel more secure and confident and won’t feel like they’re walking down a path completely blind.
9. Listen to them and explore their fears
Fears in childhood are completely normal. However, as adults, we have to be aware of children’s fears, listen to them, and reassure them. It is key that children can confidently tell us their deepest feelings and that we let them know that being afraid is a natural part of any challenge. A good idea to placate fear is to explain how we overcame a challenge with a personal example.
10. Encourage their autonomy by showing faith in their abilities
One concise statement encapsulates this notion: When you believe in your children, they will believe in themselves. As caregivers, we are accustomed to taking the lead, instructing, and providing guidance to our little ones. It may seem natural to expect children to place their trust in adults, rather than the other way around. However, it is crucial that we place more trust in their strengths and aspirations, and furthermore, instill in them our unwavering belief in their capabilities. This approach serves as the most effective means of fostering confidence and nurturing resilient self-esteem in individuals.
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