Ways Parents Can Promote Independence in 3-Year Old and 4-Year-Old Children
Posted on: 26 October 2017
Parents of three- or four-year-old children believe that their children need all the help they can offer concerning preschool learning, and rightly so. However, what parent does not want to see their children dressing on their own or making their beds early in their lives? While this is true, early childhood education experts have discovered over the years that kids are capable of doing more than what most parents would think. All that parents need is to learn a few concepts on how to promote independence on the part of their children. This article provides ideas you can apply as a parent to encourage the freedom of your child towards early learning.
Do not Redo their Work
Small children are still learning their surroundings, so you might be tempted to help on some of the things they would love to do on their own. For instance, if your three-year-old child has made their bed, you might find it hard to resist the urge to straighten the edges. While you innocently believe you are helping them out, the fact is that you are discouraging them, and they will lose interest in making their bed. Instead, complement their efforts, as doing so will encourage them to be making their beds every morning. You will notice that with time they will improve in whatever it is that they do on their own. Most importantly, ensure that you compliment everything from their dressing to drawings.
Expect More
You may find it hard to believe, but even small children have a way of living up to expectations. They will hang up their coats, pour their water and also wash their hands without any help because we expect them to do such things. However, when they leave their preschool classrooms and get home, parents want to do everything for them. As a parent, you need to take the teachers' approach and at least raise the bar. You will be surprised at the efforts your four-year-old will put to reach the bar without your help.
Assign a Chore
Children are capable of doing certain exciting but straightforward household chores. For instance, if you notice that your three-year-old loves plants, get flowers and put them in charge of watering the flowerpots. Doing so boosts their confidence and independence and goes a long way towards improving their sense of competency. Other chores such as assisting in setting the table for dinner or even emptying the dryer are manageable enough for kids this age. The primary objective is to have them feel that they are in charge of something, which is a great confidence and independence booster.
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