Raising children: raising an independent child
Raising children: raising an independent child
Raising children is a journey of many steps. Some are easy, some are difficult. Some are rewarding, some are not. Some may be forgotten, while others will stay with you for years to come.
But one thing is certain: you’ll never stop learning how to raise your child. Their needs change as they grow and develop, and so do yours.
This blog discusses some ways to raise independent children by giving them the tools they need to be happy, healthy, and successful in life.
Encourage independence
Our goal is to raise happy, healthy, independent children who take pride in themselves and their abilities. It’s amazing how much you can teach them with the little things.
For example, helping them get dressed can instill confidence in them and help them become independent.
They will appreciate the help if it’s done willingly and happily. Let them make their own decisions so they learn the importance of being an independent thinker.
It helps them develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Let them figure out how to dress, but always be there to help when they get stuck.
If they come to you with a problem, explain that the solution is right there in front of them. They will be more willing to ask for help when they can see the answer on the tip of their tongue.
Say “No” to too much help
Many people don’t like to say no. It’s hard. If we choose to love others and allow them to care for our children for hours every day, it can be difficult to say no.
But it’s crucial to teach your child how to care for themselves. They’ll make it to college without your help, no matter how much you give.
Teach your child to make a real dinner We expect our children to go to school, learn, eat, and socialize, but it’s important to encourage them to eat healthily and get exercise.
Doing this will help them understand that food isn’t just for eating, and it’ll teach them the joy of being active.
But having dinner with them every night is also important, as you can teach them how to shop, cook, and prepare their food.
Growth mindset vs. fixed mindset
The big controversy is between the growth mindset and the fixed mindset. When I started this blog, I really didn’t know what a growth mindset was.
As it turns out, many of you are already familiar with it and would prefer to have one parent rather than the other.
I read an interesting article where Jennifer Senior explains how the two different mindsets developed as a result of different perceptions of the world.
Both the fixed mindset and the growth mindset are based on the idea that our minds can grow and develop if we are exposed to certain things.
If something is fixed, it doesn’t change no matter what you are told. If something is growth-driven, it can and will change. Let’s break this down.
