HOW TO RAISE RESPONSIBLE,

INDEPENDENT CHILDREN

1. ASSIGN SOME ACCOUNTABILITY - Age-appropriate chores are a simple way to teach your child responsibility. Add in a little financial incentive and your darling will begin learning how to manage finances, too.

2. LET THEM MAKE DECISIONS - Letting your child make some of his/her own age-appropriate choices will teach accountability and help them gain independence.

3. FOSTER INDEPENDENCE - The only way to master any skill is through practice. By letting him/her tackle age-appropriate tasks, like getting dressed, he/she will also become more self-reliant.

4. SET A GOOD EXAMPLE - Taking your own responsibilities seriously sets a good example for your children’s watchful eyes. Keeping your promises or being on time are ways you can lead by example.

5. PICK UP A BOOK - Stories pack a lot of punch, so when it comes to reading time, select books that illustrate responsibility. Interesting characters and situations she can identify with will hold his/her attention. Even better, they won't tune you out because they aren't

 being lectured!

6. TALK THROUGH DIFFICULT SITUATIONS - Although your first instinct is to direct and protect your child, instead of automatically telling him/her what they should do, guide him/her through the process of coming to a conclusion on his/her own. Ask questions and encourage them to think it through with your support.

7. SHOW THEM THE BIGGER PICTURE - The ultimate goal is for your child to act responsibly because he/she wants to, not just because he/she is told to. Explaining to your child how doing her part is helping the family as a whole can sometimes help young children understand how their actions affect others.

8. BE PATIENT, IT’S A PROCESS, IT TAKES TIME – Children are children, and they will learn. Making mistakes is part of their learning. If they fail at something, talk it out and start over. Children need to feel that parents have not given up on them!

Teaching your child responsibility helps build character and makes him/her a more independent, self-reliant person.

Finally, don't forget to give your child plenty for praise for a job well done!