Small Steps to Big Independence: Building Confidence at Home

Last week, we talked about the power of matching home routines to what’s happening at school. This week, I want to take it a step further, let’s talk about building independence.
When our kids can do more for themselves, put on their shoes, pack their bag, choose their clothes, something powerful happens. They light up. They feel proud. And that pride follows them right into the classroom.

💡 Why Independence Matters

When children do little things on their own, it grows more than just skills; it grows confidence (Gonzalez-Mena, 2018).
• They feel good about themselves.
• They feel capable when they walk into school.
• They bounce back quicker when something doesn’t go right.
Teachers notice too. Research shows that children who are given opportunities for independence develop stronger social-emotional skills and are more engaged learners (NAEYC, 2020).

🏠 Simple Steps to Try at Home

You don’t need to change everything at once; just start small.
• Morning Chart: Hang a picture chart that shows “wake up, brush teeth, get dressed, eat breakfast.” Let your child check off each step.
• Choices: Offer two options for clothes, snacks, or books. It’s a small thing, but it gives them a sense of control.
• Bag Packing: Let them place their lunchbox or folder inside their backpack.
• Little Helpers: Invite them to match socks, wipe the table, or feed the pet.
Each of these moments is a chance for them to practice being responsible in a safe, encouraging space.

Praise the Effort

When your child does something on their own, even if it’s not perfect, say what you see.
“You put your shoes away all by yourself!”
“I saw you keep trying until that zipper went up, great job!”
Psychologist Carol Dweck calls this descriptive praise, focusing on the process rather than just saying “good job” and it helps children develop a growth mindset and keep trying (Dweck, 2006).

✅ Your Next Step
✨ Download your free Kidz Exec Morning & Bedtime Checklist and try one independence-building step this week.

Get your FREE Morning and Bedtime Checklist here

Watch how these small steps grow into big confidence, at home and in the classroom.

📚 References
• Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. New York: Random House.
• Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2018). Foundations of Early Childhood Education: Teaching Children in a Diverse Society. Cengage Learning.
• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2020). Developmentally Appropriate Practice Position Statement. Retrieved from https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/dap