Mommy I Can Do It Myself

Mommy I Can Do It Myself

A baby's desire for independence begins very early. Each one starts the journey at a different stage in their development. You may begin to see this when your baby spits out a binky that you think should be in, or wanting to hold their own bottle. My grand-daughter’s attempts at independence showed up at the dining room table. She did not want to be fed, she wanted to use her own spoon or fork. She did not want a Sippy cup, or an adult to hold a glass. She wanted to do it all by herself. Yes, it was messy. But the smile on her face, and the look of satisfaction was worth the mess.

Adults sometimes find it difficult to allow the little ones to do things on their own, because Mom can get it done faster.  Preschoolers like to put on clothes, coats and shoes. Some children even want to blow their own nose, brush their teeth and make their own bed. It is hard to stand by and watch your children struggling with certain tasks. Try to be patient 

               and supportive.

The other day I saw a little girl putting on her boots while her mother was in the checkout line. She set the boots side by side on the floor; then holding onto the counter with one hand for balance, she pointed her little toes and worked her foot into the first boot. The second boot was more difficult to put on because she got off balance. The second boot tipped over, bent, and moved. When her mother finished paying for her items she strolled over to her daughter. This mother could have bent over and put the boot on her child and left. However, she stayed with her daughter and encouraged her. When the little girl was finally booted up, she looked up at her mother, gave a big smile and took her mother’s hand as they left the store.

“Me do it!” 
Your child is developing and growing; so her wanting to be independent is a good thing.

 Supporting your child will enhance your relationship and provide the feelings of success and independence she needs, to become a confident adult. Be your child’s first cheerleader and watch her grow.

“I Do it Myself”-  http://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/month-29.aspx

Toddler Independence - http://www.ok.gov/health2/documents/cgs.pub.ICanDoitMyself.pdf

Five Tips of Encouraging Independence - http://www.momtastic.com/parenting/172483-5-tips-for-encouraging-independence-in-toddlers/