By Kay Bauerle, RCS Preschool Educator

As parents, we can easily get ourselves and our family ready for an adventure with speed and efficiency. Yet when we step aside and allow time for our young children to learn how to ready themselves, we truly start teaching independence. It will take lots of patience and encouragement, but seeing the pride in your child's eyes when they accomplish a difficult task is well worth the effort. Here are some suggestions to assist your child with important confidence-boosting independence skills.

1. Let them try. Some skills are especially challenging, such as tying shoes, zipping up a coat, or pouring drinks. Show your child how to do it, let them try it before you help, and offer lots of encouragement and praise. 

2. Give them choices. Offering options can help children feel in control, end power struggles, and reassure them they are valued. Empower them by asking, "celery or carrots, apple or pear, the park or a hike."

3. Encourage them to help. Setting the table is an easy task for young children as is helping prepare meals, clearing the dishes, assisting in the garden, folding laundry, and taking care of pets.