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You?re scrambling to get the kids out the door, but your three-year-old is putting on his shoes at a glacial pace. The temptation to take over is overwhelming. While letting your child do it himself definitely takes more time and patience, it?s some of the most important parenting you?ll do, says Jane Hewes, chair of the Early Learning and Child Care at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton. ?When kids learn to do things for themselves, they?re developing a positive self identity, and it makes them feel competent and worthy.? Here?s what kids can learn to do for themselves at every stage from toddler to tween, keeping in mind that some may be ready earlier or later?and what you can do to help your child blossom into a self-sufficient young adult. The toddler years (1?3)
?I do it!? may become your toddler?s daily mantra and now is the time to start nurturing that independent spirit.
Using the potty: Around 24 to 36 months, kids are developmentally ready to be toilet trained, and they?ll show you when they are interested, says Emmett Francoeur, a developmental paediatrician at The Montreal Children?s Hospital. ?They might be curious about adults using the toilet and begin to imitate it, or start inspecting the toilet or potty.?
Coaching tips: Once your child shows interest, encourage him to use the potty once or twice a day to start. When he goes, celebrate and offer lots of praise.
Drinking and pouring: Toddlers can graduate to cups without lids. At aroun...