Encourage Student Independence

As a staff, we took time to reflect on the first half of the school year and set goals for the months ahead. One area we identified for growth is encouraging student independence—helping our students develop the confidence to try their work before immediately seeking help.

You can support this effort at home by allowing your child to do for themselves what they are capable of doing. While it’s natural to want to step in and make things easier, self-confidence is built through overcoming challenges. Here are some age-appropriate ways to foster independence:

• Getting Ready for School: Encourage your child to dress themselves, tie their shoes, and pack their own lunch or snack.
• Household Responsibilities: Assign age-appropriate chores like setting the table, loading/unloading the dishwasher, making their bed, or feeding a pet.
• Problem-Solving Everyday Challenges: Let them work through small conflicts with siblings or friends before stepping in, or encourage them to find solutions when they forget something (e.g., “What can you do if you forgot your library book?”).
• Managing Time & Belongings: Have them set their own alarm, keep track of their belongings (coat, backpack, water bottle), and take responsibility for bringing what they need to school.
• Decision-Making: Give them choices in daily routines, like picking their outfit for the day, selecting a snack, or deciding how to spend their free time.
• Personal Care: Encourage them to brush their teeth, brush their hair, and take care of hygiene routines on their own.

Research shows that children who develop independence at an early age build resilience, problem-solving skills, and a greater sense of self-confidence. When kids see that they are capable of handling challenges, they become more willing to take on new ones.We appreciate your partnership in helping our students grow into confident, capable learners!