Self-sufficiency is
an important skill to learn in life, especially for young children before they
transition from our Kindergarten environment into that of Primary School. I came across this interesting article, that lists 10 simple things that educators & parents can do to help young children become
more self-sufficient.
1. Encourage children to do for themselves
Offer support & guidance to children as they solve problems, yet allow them the freedom to make choices & learn from their mistakes
Offer support & guidance to children as they solve problems, yet allow them the freedom to make choices & learn from their mistakes
2. Begin with small tasks
Divide big tasks into smaller ones. As children complete small tasks successfully, move on to larger ones. Compliment children when they complete challenging or more complicated tasks.
Divide big tasks into smaller ones. As children complete small tasks successfully, move on to larger ones. Compliment children when they complete challenging or more complicated tasks.
3. Plan 'free-play' periods throughout the day
Children need time to make their own rules, to pretend & to establish boundaries.
Children need time to make their own rules, to pretend & to establish boundaries.
4. Schedule daily chores
Involve children in daily chores - feeding the fish, watering plants, wiping tables, making their bed, returning books to the shelves, keeping their room neat, etc.
Involve children in daily chores - feeding the fish, watering plants, wiping tables, making their bed, returning books to the shelves, keeping their room neat, etc.
5. Help children manage their own time
Does your child have difficult finding something to do, even when presented with several activities? Help children who struggle with time management by structuring their free play & activities.
Does your child have difficult finding something to do, even when presented with several activities? Help children who struggle with time management by structuring their free play & activities.
6. Provide options & choices when possible
Begin by presenting children with two choices; move to three as the child matures. This develops independent thinkers & learners.
Begin by presenting children with two choices; move to three as the child matures. This develops independent thinkers & learners.
7. Finish what you start.
Even small tasks should be completed. Provide guidance & encouragement for following directions.
Even small tasks should be completed. Provide guidance & encouragement for following directions.
8. Return items to their proper place.
Label shelves & containers with pictures & words. These cues will help remind children where supplies are stored while promoting language & literacy development.
Label shelves & containers with pictures & words. These cues will help remind children where supplies are stored while promoting language & literacy development.
9. Encourage children to ask for assistance when needed.
It's OK to ask for help if you've tried & can't do something for yourself.
It's OK to ask for help if you've tried & can't do something for yourself.
10. Promote friendships.
By making friends, children are able to develop positive self-images & express empathy & caring for others.
By making friends, children are able to develop positive self-images & express empathy & caring for others.
No comments:
Post a Comment