Comments on: Try This Tuesday #15: Encouraging Independence

By: Trish

Trish — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 23:59:31 +0000

It's so different for everybody. I guess for me it's when I hear that little voice inside telling me that I am holding on too tight and not wanting to let him grow up.

Also, if I am doing something out of fear, I have to step back and evaluate objectively whether he needs my help at that moment.

By: Jenny

Jenny — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:25:29 +0000

This is an issue that's just starting to appear for us, but I know it will be around for a LONG time!

Jackson's teacher just talked to me last week about the fact that he is too prompt-dependant, and suggested we need to start encouraging (and enforcing) his being more independant. It's going to be a challenge!

By: Julie

Julie — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:47:20 +0000

This is great. I'm trying not to hover…but I can't retreat out of eye sight yet. He's got to be in mine, not the other way around! Best wishes!!

By: Barbara

Barbara — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:28:54 +0000

I really relate to being protective, and like Maddy, keep closer watch than others, maybe – at least that's what my children tell me!

I still cannot get over parents who will drop an 11-year-old off at the mall for a Saturday afternoon.

One of my perspectives on parenting is that the whole process is letting go a little at a time. And everyone gets to do that in their own individual way.

By: Christine

Christine — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:20:44 +0000

I was terrified to let Regan go to camp the first time. A whole week without mr absolutely horrified me. Three year later and she has gone to three diferent camps last summer, ans wants me to find more so she can keep meeting people like her.

By: Rickismom

Rickismom — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 05:40:44 +0000

Whenever I feel like holding on too much, I say to myself:
TEACH her the skill and let her do it. Otherwise she will one day DO it (sucessfull or not) without the teaching!!!!!

By: Maddy

Maddy — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:51:03 +0000

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for independence, but I'm still hovering and mine are considerably older than yours. I suppose we have to take it each step at a time depending upon where we are on the bell curve.

Sounds like yours is going ting a ling a ling [your bell that is to say.]
Best wishes

By: Alicia @ Experiencing Each Moment

Alicia @ Experiencing Each Moment — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:39:39 +0000

Oh, I'm so touched by your words. I'm going through the exact same thing with my son. Letting go in small doses…