Being independent is a great feeling and as an adult we all
enjoy it, but when it comes to teach this good habit to kids, it is somewhat
difficult. It requires some practice and patience. There are two obstacles one
from parent side, when they need to finish a task in particular time, they do
not show confidence in kids and finish it by themselves. On practical aspect it
is not too bad. Second when kids do not show any interest in doing any task
independently because of laziness or they think that my dad or mom will do
this.
Here are some simple methods for solving this problem.
Start from very
simple task and then shift to complex- we need to start from very simple
and basic task. Before assign them any task explain them importance of
independent work in life and how this habit will help them in future? Then
explain the detail and proper way and method of any task, even when task is
very simple also. By this way they will get an interest in task and would be
able to that independently. Proper explanation is the best way to make kids
convinced for anything. I have tried this on my kids often with good result.
Some good examples of simple tasks are-
·
Dress up by themselves and after changing put
their clothes at proper place.
·
Put on shoes and socks by them and put them at
shoe rack.
·
Prepare backpack at night before school and put
all school stuffs are at proper place.
·
Comb hairs, brush teeth, get ready for school
are some simple task that can be a good start for making kids independent.
Shift from simple to
complex task- it will be second step. For more complex task like clean-up
of room or setting a dinner table or cook a simple meal encourage them for
start and then told that I will help you for complete it. Most of the kids do
not show any interest to complete it, and then use your all magic words,
explain them importance of clean up, teach all simple steps to complete a
complex task. We can use an interesting fact or a story about that task, but
help is a must part of any complex task. We need to repeat this process so many
times until they get habitual to it.
Involvement
activities- these activities are a great way for starting any task
independently. For ex. To plant a tree in backyard, take help of your little
one. To raise their interest explain them whole process. By this way they will
get the knowledge of whole process and would be able to that kind of tasks
independently with less effort. Some good examples of involvement activities
are arrange a salad plate, rinse plates, arrange wardrobe.
Pretend activities
– these are a good method for repeating steps of task. For ex. prepare a doll
for school or for doctor visit. By doing this kids will learn all steps of this
routine task and would be able to do that more independently in future.
Rewarding-
rewarding and praise is must for all good behaviour and for completing any
task. It will encourage them and build a good level of self confidence in them.
We can make a behaviour and task chart for week to evaluate their performance.
Be rigid and take
control- when they do not listen or do not show any interest for completing
task independently, be rigid and take control and as a consequence we can take
their privilege like playing video game for few days.
So just follow these simple steps and repeat it. Within few
days you would be able to achieve your goal and your kids will be more
independent and happier too.