Teaching a Two-Year-Old Independence

It is important to teach every child independence. As much as you love your little baby, you have to let them grow up. Teaching independence is an important lesson that you can start teaching at a very young age. Teach independence on your child's level. Some two year olds are more advanced than others. Here are a few ways to teach independence to your child on his or her level.

One way to teach your child independence is by having him or her help you help them dress. The first thing you want to do is to have your child help choose his or her clothes. You will quickly learn if you can ask your child to choose clothes from all of their closet or if you need to let them choose between two outfits. It may take them a long time regardless of the question, so plan ahead and ask the night before.

I was able to ask my daughter what she wanted to wear at two years old. I would ask both ways. When I gave her free reign she would pick out some interesting outfits. Sometimes, they actually matched. If we were going somewhere that I thought she needed to be dressed appropriately, I would choose two outfits for her to choose from.

Independence also includes hygiene and personal care. You can help your child take care of themselves. Let your two year old bathe him or herself. When your toddler is done, you might have to go over a few spots, but praise your child for what they did do. Help them to wash their own hair. Give them the option of using a cup or the shower to put water on their hair.

After a bath is a good time to teach your child to brush or comb their hair. The shampoo, and possibly conditioner has left your child's hair soft and smooth and easier to comb. The easier for a toddler to comb the more likely they will not become frustrated by knots and pulling. They will be independently combing or brushing their hair in no time.

Brushing one's teeth is an important part of independence. You can help your child learn to brush his or her own teeth. Have them watch you and then, put a little toothpaste on their toothbrush for them. Never give a two year old a tube of toothpaste unless you have the time to clean it up. Let your two year old hold the toothbrush and put your hand over his or her hand and brush their teeth. It will take them time to learn to brush properly, but it is a start.

Another important part of independence is feeding oneself. Two year olds may not be able to grasp forks and spoons so be prepared for the messes. Most importantly, have food or snacks where they can reach them if they want something to eat. Be sure it is something you will not mind them eating.

Teaching independence early will enable your child to take care of himself or herself when the time comes. Let your child know you will continuously help them if they want it. Starting the learning process early will help your child perfect the little tasks in life. Be sure to praise often for effort even if the task was not completed to your satisfaction. This will help the child from becoming frustrated.