Children are capable of so much more than we usually expect.
Independence looks different depending on the age of a child, but every child can show independence. Here are some benchmarks of independence for those in our Toddler program (15 months – 3 years).
CARE FOR SELF
In an organized environment, toddlers can:
- dress themselves.
- engage self for brief periods of time.
- walk to class without being carried.
- carry their belongings (backpack, lunch, and coat) to class and place them in the cubby without parental help.
- open and close their lunchboxes & containers.
- feed themselves from an open cup.
- eat while sitting in a chair (no highchairs).
- go to the bathroom independently as long as their clothes are not a hindrance.
- entertain themselves without the TV, computer, tablet or smartphone.
- help brush their teeth and hair.
- put on socks and shoes by themselves.
- eat with utensils.
CARE FOR ENVIRONMENT
In an organized environment, toddlers can:
- clean up and put their toys away in an orderly environment where items have a place.
- help prepare meals, i.e., wash vegetables.
- water plants.
- help with gardening.
- clean up spills.
- help wash the car.
- help sweep the floor.
- put some laundry away.
- be respectful of other living creatures.
- help with chores at home such as putting away dirty dishes or help make a bed.
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
In an organized environment, toddlers can:
- let others finish a sentence before interrupting to ask a question.
- follow social expectations of eating/drinking in designated areas and times.
- learn to deal with frustrations without having a parent anticipate and solve problems for them.
- use words or signs rather than whine.
- resolve conflict without physical actions.
THE ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE IS NEVER EASY
Children aren’t perfect, and neither are we. For children up to 3 years old, it is OK
- if your child is not independent at times.
- if your child needs to be carried sometimes.
- if your child makes a mess; he can help clean it up.
- if your child complains a bit about doing what she has been asked to do; stand your ground!
- to be the parent and not a friend. “You have to love your child enough to let them hate you.” —Carol Burnett
- if your child is crying or whining when he comes into class; just let him go and he will be fine. We will call you in the event he does not settle down.
- if your child makes mistakes. It allows her to learn on her own.
