Children who yield to every command are less likely to be aware of their own needs and may have trouble asserting themselves, which can make them vulnerable to exploitation as they get older. It's important to find a balance early on.
For parents who wish to encourage independent thinking in their kids, the challenge is to know when to force your way and when to let your child follow his or her own plan. Here are some ways to let your children call the shots.
• Weekend dinner
Leave a weekend dinner unplanned and let your child decide what will be on the menu. Shop for the ingredients together and prepare the meal as a family.
• What to wear
From toddlers to teens, letting children choose their own clothes is a must in terms of developing self-determination and identity. You may be the arbiter of what comes into your home (after all, it is your responsibility to explain what is decent and acceptable), but once something is in your kids' closet, it behooves you to just let them decide what to put on and when (with the exception of weddings and funerals).
• Playmates
From an early age, children know who they like to spend time with. Don't force your child to play with someone he or she dislikes.
• Sports
Let children choose which sports they'd like to enroll in. And if they don't want to join a league, relax: younger children can stay active by enjoying the playground or a relaxed game of catch.
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