Giving Your Child the Gift of Independence

Have you ever noticed that young children tend to ‘want to’ do things all by themselves?’ This tendency is the beginning of independence and, as parents, it is important for us to encourage this. 

No matter the age, children continue to learn how to become more independent each day. 

Independence is not something that your children can gain on their own. They have neither the perspective and the experience, nor the skills to develop independence individually. Rather, it is a gift you give your children that they will cherish and benefit their entire lives. You can provide your child with several essential ingredients for gaining independence.

When dealing with inculcating a sense of independence and responsibility in your child and struggling to let go, make a beginning with some simple tips! Be it teaching them the basics of a household, or allowing them to have their own room, or organising their studies, it all boils down to one thing — refrain from imposing your beliefs, opinions and ideologies on your child. Find the right balance — understand that they need your guidance but, at the end of it all, your young one is his own person, just like you are!

Independence is important because it develops confidence and self-esteem as well as motivation and perseverance. It not only fosters self-reliance but also gives your child a sense of importance and belonging which is essential for building social relationships and for contributing to the world. They become resilient to external challenges and learn many important lessons of life. It makes them happy and healthy as they feel a great sense of achievement and success as a direct result of their own actions.

Also, granting them the freedom of speech, thought and expression and all the more being independent in taking decisions, gives them wings to reach the sky. Having said that, we would, thereby be bringing up a new generation of young Indians, examining and practising a deeper meaning of freedom and by giving our children the independence to be themselves, to learn, discover, grow and develop as they choose, and of course to support them.

As parents, teachers and guardians, our actions often hamper the natural growth and development of our children. Without even realizing it, we sometimes push our children towards certain choices. This begins with 'helping' them choose their subjects in the higher grades, helping simply being a euphemism for directing, gently. The same kind of overbearing presence is felt in almost all-important facets of a child's life.

To conclude, giving ‘our children’ the gift of independence lets them know that we value them so that they grow up with a strong sense of self-belief that they can do anything they put their mind to. Not only does this help our children grow and develop, but it also fosters them to be confident and competent communicators, curious and resilient explorers and creative thinkers.