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How to Encourage Toddler Independence?

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Encouraging independence in toddlers helps them build confidence, develop critical life skills, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. By providing the right support and environment, you can help your toddler grow into a more self-reliant and capable...
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1. Age-Appropriate Chores and Responsibilities

a) Introduce Simple Tasks: Start with simple tasks that your toddler can manage, such as picking up toys, putting clothes in the hamper, or helping set the table. 
b) Consistent Routines: Establish routines for these tasks, so they become a regular part of your toddler's day. 
c) Praise and Encouragement: Offer plenty of praise and positive reinforcement when your toddler completes tasks.

 
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Ideal for toys or kids' blankets
Personalised CHILDREN'S Toy Basket
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These are digital download
Editable Daily Routine Cards & Chart
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I love these for older kids who know how to read, you write down the task and once they've accomplished it, the check it as done.
Sliding Routine Chart Checklist
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Excellent article about praising your child without saying “good job”
The Problem With Telling Your Tot “Good Job!”
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Straightforward examples to replace the basic praising phrases
10 Motivating Phrases to Praise Your Child’s Efforts and Achievements
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2. Foster Self-Help Skills

a) Dressing Themselves: Encourage your toddler to dress and undress themselves. Offer clothes with easy fastenings, such as Velcro or large buttons. 
b) Toileting Independence: Support your toddler in using the potty independently by providing a step stool and easily accessible clothing. 
c) Feeding Themselves: Allow your toddler to feed themselves, even if it gets messy. Use child-friendly utensils and cups.

 
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Have their clothes easily accessible with this wooden clothing rack.
Children Clothing Rack
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Every single toilet in our house has this type of seat and it is amazing!
Toilet Seat with Built-In Potty Training Seat
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Check out this book about baby lead feeding to help your little one discover food on their own terms.
Baby-Led Weaning: Essential Guide to Solid Foods
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3. Create a Safe and Accessible Environment

a) Child-Proofing: Ensure that your home is child-proofed so your toddler can explore safely. 
b) Accessible Storage: Place toys, books, and clothes within your toddler's reach to encourage them to get and put away items on their own. 
c) Safe Play Areas: Designate safe play areas where your toddler can play independently without constant supervision.

 
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We have these and totally recommend them.
Corner Protector (12 pack)
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We also have these and they are great, as well as aesthetically pleasing.
Childproof Home Security Door Lock
 
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Make sure your toddler can't remove them as they're getting older and wiser :)
Outlet Covers
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4. Encourage Decision-Making

a) Offer Choices: Give your toddler simple choices, such as selecting between two outfits or choosing a snack from a couple of options. 
b) Involve in Decisions: Involve your toddler in making decisions about daily activities, such as picking a bedtime story or choosing a game to play. 
c) Accept Imperfection: Allow your toddler to make decisions and learn from mistakes without criticism.

 
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Here's a great article to read about empowering your child to make decisions.
Helping Kids Make Decisions - Child Mind Institute
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Another excellent article about the benefits of making mistakes.
"It’s Okay to Make Mistakes:" How Being Wrong Can Help Us Learn
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Such a nice read aloud story
Kids Books Read Aloud Story 📚 Choices are my Superpower by Alicia Ortego [Official Channel]
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5. Promote Problem-Solving Skills

a) Allow Time to Figure Things Out: Give your toddler time to solve problems on their own, whether it’s fitting a puzzle piece or figuring out how to stack blocks. 
b) Encourage Exploration: Encourage your toddler to explore their environment and try new things. 
c) Ask Open-Ended Questions: Help your toddler think critically by asking open-ended questions like, “What do you think will happen if...?

 
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I love this jigsaw puzzle for its different approach.
Puzzles for Fun Learning
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This one is great for beginners, let them make mistakes and figure out how to solve these puzzles.
Montessori puzzles
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We have these and my daughter used to love them when she was younger.
Wooden Puzzles for Kids
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6. Balance Independence and Supervision

a) Gradual Steps: Gradually increase the level of independence you expect from your toddler, providing support when needed. 
b) Be Available: Be nearby and available to help if your toddler needs it, but avoid doing tasks for them that they can do themselves. 
c) Safety First: Always prioritize safety and ensure that independent activities are appropriate for your toddler’s age and abilities.

 
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Indeed!
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Check out this link to some amazing and inspirational quotes to empower your child.
16 Quotes on Raising Empowered Kids
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7. Be Patient and Consistent

a) Consistency is Key: Consistently encourage and allow opportunities for independence in daily routines. 
b) Patience: Be patient as your toddler learns new skills. Progress may be slow, but perseverance pays off. 
c) Positive Reinforcement: Regularly acknowledge and celebrate your toddler’s efforts and achievements, no matter how small.

 
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Love this one, so inspiring!
Positive Quote for Parents
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Love this visual chart
Smart parenting
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