What is the perfect age for a child to be independent

Critical independent thinking skills are very important in enhancing the self-esteem and promoting an ability to meet any challenging situation and optimism. However, aspirants we can unwittingly hinder a child’s ability to develop independent thinking skills by constantly helping or doing more than what is actually required. The excitement and sheer pleasure of wearing the socks or zipping up the jacket, combing hair for the first time without any help, it cannot be expressed through words.  

Just by doing such simple things (they might be simple for you, but for the children….), they feel so proud of their ability to do things on their own.  

From here starts the journey towards self-confidence, self-esteem and self-worth. A young child transforming into a compassionate, helpful, strong individual with critical thinking, analytical skills and problem-solving attitude. 

We all feel excited and thrilled if our children learn things through self-initiative. Every parent wants their child to be an achiever, to learn new things, skills and abilities on their way to adulthood. However, these events may happen only when parents provide their children an opportunity to try to do things on their own. 

In a nutshell, we need to step back and encourage our children to take the initiative and experience the wonders of life from a very early age. At every step we need to stand by them as spectators and guide them, help them but not interfere.  

This journey towards self-discovery and self-reliance can start as early as 3 to 4 years. The children are born inquisitive with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. The inherent desire to explore and discover new things makes each child unique in his own way. All that is needed to unleash their potential is a little support, a little trust and freedom to explore and try out new things under adult supervision.  

It is an indisputable fact that children are innocent, naive and guileless, can very easily be misguided or lured, however, this should not act as a deterrent. The liberties and freedom to explore, probe and research can be passed on to the youngsters in a transitional manner depending on the child’s mental and emotional maturity. The smooth transition under adult supervision with unconditional support and trust of their loved ones can encourage and motivate the children to achieve great heights and success in the enterprise.  

The fear of failure of mistakes should not shackle them. It has been aptly stated that, “Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.” 

Independence liberates and individual, makes him fearless, give some the power to attain the unattainable, conquer the unconquerable, and achieve the unachievable. Children need the freedom to appreciate the infinite resources of their hands, their eyes and their ears, the resources of forms, materials, sounds and colours.