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8 Unexpected Benefits of Boredom in Children

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8 Unexpected Benefits of Boredom in Children

Parents often feel pressure to keep their children entertained around the clock—enrolling them in activities, handing over screens, or planning elaborate outings. But what if one of the greatest gifts we can give our kids is boredom? While it might sound counterintuitive, boredom can actually spark growth, creativity, and emotional strength in ways constant stimulation cannot. The benefits of boredom in children go far beyond simply filling time. It encourages self-discovery, resilience, and independence in ways that structured activities rarely do.

1. Boredom Sparks Creativity

When kids aren’t handed ready-made entertainment, their brains kick into gear to create it on their own. Whether it’s building a fort out of couch cushions or inventing a new game, unstructured time gives children room to stretch their imagination. Without the noise of schedules and screens, they start thinking outside the box. This kind of spontaneous creativity plays a crucial role in problem-solving and innovation. The benefits of boredom in children often start with something as simple as an idle afternoon and a cardboard box.

2. It Builds Problem-Solving Skills

When children are bored, they’re faced with a question: What now? That’s where problem-solving skills begin to grow. Instead of waiting for someone else to provide entertainment, kids start to look around and assess their options. This kind of independent thinking teaches them how to explore solutions, experiment, and adapt. Boredom pushes children to take initiative—an essential life skill that helps them succeed both academically and socially.

3. Boredom Teaches Patience

We live in a world of instant gratification, which makes patience harder to come by. But boredom gives kids a natural opportunity to practice waiting and managing discomfort. When there’s nothing exciting happening right away, they learn that not every moment needs to be filled. Over time, this strengthens their tolerance for delayed rewards and frustration. Building patience now sets the stage for better emotional regulation later in life.

4. It Fosters Independence

A bored child learns to rely on themselves for entertainment and engagement, not an adult or a device. That autonomy nurtures independence and builds confidence in their own decision-making. Instead of being spoon-fed activities, kids begin to understand their own interests and preferences. The freedom to explore their imagination without constant direction can be incredibly empowering. One of the quieter benefits of boredom in children is the way it helps them grow into more capable, self-directed individuals.

5. Boredom Can Support Emotional Growth

Children who experience boredom have the chance to sit with their thoughts, feelings, and frustrations. This helps them develop a deeper sense of emotional awareness and self-understanding. Instead of being constantly distracted, they learn how to process emotions naturally, which is vital for healthy mental development. While it may not always be comfortable, this inner stillness is where emotional resilience begins. Encouraging boredom isn’t ignoring your child—it’s trusting them to grow through quiet moments.

6. It Encourages Mindful Play

When children are bored, they often turn to play that’s slower, deeper, and more immersive. They may revisit toys they haven’t used in a while or explore nature with new curiosity. This kind of mindful, open-ended play is different than passive screen time or structured activities. It allows kids to focus, explore at their own pace, and truly engage with their surroundings. Mindful play supports longer attention spans and a stronger connection to the present moment.

7. Boredom Boosts Self-Motivation

Children who learn how to cope with boredom often become more intrinsically motivated. Instead of doing something because they were told to, they do it because they chose it for themselves. This internal drive is a powerful trait that supports academic performance, personal goals, and long-term success. Boredom creates the space for children to discover what genuinely interests them. The more they pursue these interests on their own, the more self-driven they become.

8. It Teaches the Value of Simplicity

In a world full of noise and busyness, boredom reminds children that joy can come from simple things. A stick in the backyard, a notebook and pencil, or even just lying on the floor daydreaming—these moments may seem uneventful, but they hold tremendous value. Kids don’t always need new toys or scheduled activities to feel fulfilled. Learning to appreciate simplicity builds gratitude and reduces the constant craving for more. Among the many benefits of boredom in children is the chance to discover that less really can be more.

The Gift of Letting Them Be Bored

Boredom isn’t something to fear—it’s something to embrace. In fact, it might be one of the most valuable tools we have in raising creative, resilient, emotionally healthy kids. The next time your child says, “I’m bored,” consider it an opportunity rather than a problem to fix. Trust that they have what they need to fill the silence and grow in the process. Sometimes, the best way to help kids thrive is to step back and give them space to figure things out on their own.

How do you handle boredom in your home? Have you noticed any surprising benefits when your child has to make their own fun? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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8 Chores Your Child Should Master By The Age of 12

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8 Chores Your Child Should Master By The Age of 12

Raising responsible kids doesn’t just happen—it takes intention, patience, and a willingness to hand over the broom. Giving children age-appropriate tasks helps build confidence, independence, and a strong work ethic that will serve them well in every stage of life. But knowing which chores your child should master by the age of 12 can make all the difference between creating helpful habits and causing daily frustration. These aren’t about perfection—they’re about participation and life skills. So if you want to raise a capable preteen, here are the essential household tasks they should have down by the time they hit a dozen candles on their birthday cake.

1. Doing Their Own Laundry

Doing laundry is one of the most practical chores your child should master by the age of 12. Kids this age can learn how to separate lights from darks, measure detergent, and operate the washing machine and dryer safely. It also helps them take responsibility for their clothes, especially when they realize what happens to a red sock in a load of whites. Folding and putting away their clean laundry completes the process and teaches ownership of their belongings. This chore builds independence and reduces your load—literally and figuratively.

2. Washing Dishes or Loading the Dishwasher

By 12, kids should be fully capable of clearing the table, rinsing dishes, and either washing by hand or loading a dishwasher correctly. It’s one of those chores your child should master by the age of 12 because it’s simple, repetitive, and reinforces the idea of teamwork after meals. Teach them how to handle fragile items carefully and the importance of rinsing food off to avoid caked-on messes. If your child complains, remind them that their contribution is essential to keeping the household running smoothly. It’s also a great chance to teach time-saving hacks and basic kitchen hygiene.

3. Vacuuming and Sweeping

These chores may seem basic, but they require focus and follow-through—qualities every 12-year-old should develop. Sweeping and vacuuming help kids recognize messes and understand the importance of cleanliness. Whether it’s cleaning crumbs from the kitchen or pet hair from the living room, this task teaches attention to detail. Plus, using household tools safely and effectively is a skill they’ll carry into adulthood. Make it more manageable by assigning specific zones or days to maintain consistency.

4. Preparing a Simple Meal

Cooking is not just a survival skill—it’s an empowering one, which makes it one of the top chores your child should master by the age of 12. Start with simple dishes like grilled cheese, scrambled eggs, pasta, or smoothies, and build from there. Learning how to prep ingredients, follow instructions, and safely use kitchen appliances gives kids a real sense of accomplishment. It also encourages healthier eating habits and appreciation for the time that goes into meals. With supervision, they can even prepare lunch for the family once a week.

5. Cleaning the Bathroom

No one loves scrubbing a toilet, but that’s exactly why it’s one of the chores your child should master by the age of 12. From wiping down sinks to cleaning mirrors and taking out trash, bathroom upkeep teaches responsibility and respect for shared spaces. Show them how to use safe cleaning products and protect themselves with gloves if needed. While it may not be fun, it’s part of learning that life includes tasks we don’t always enjoy but still need to do. The earlier kids learn this, the easier adulthood becomes.

6. Taking Out the Trash and Recycling

By 12, kids should know how to gather household trash, separate recycling, and wheel the bins to the curb if needed. It’s a straightforward task, but it’s one of those chores your child should master by the age of 12 because it connects them to the rhythms of the household. It also introduces them to environmental awareness—understanding what can be reused or recycled instead of tossed away. Make sure they know the schedule, the proper bins, and how to replace liners. It’s a task with built-in routine and responsibility.

7. Making Their Bed and Tidying Their Room

Personal responsibility starts in their own space, and that’s why making the bed and keeping a tidy room are foundational chores your child should master by the age of 12. A clean room helps kids stay organized and reduces stress. Daily habits like putting away clothes, organizing toys or books, and dusting shelves instill discipline. You’re not asking for showroom quality—just consistent effort and pride in their personal space. Once they master this, it’s easier to extend that effort to shared spaces in the home.

8. Caring for Pets

If your family has pets, daily feeding, fresh water, cleaning cages, or walking the dog should become part of your child’s routine. Caring for animals is one of the most meaningful chores your child should master by the age of 12 because it builds empathy, consistency, and patience. Explain how pets rely on humans and why their well-being matters. When kids take on this task, they learn that being responsible means showing up every day—no matter what. It’s also a great way to connect emotionally and physically with another living being.

Raising Helpers, Not Houseguests

These chores your child should master by the age of 12 aren’t about making kids “pull their weight” like mini adults—they’re about teaching responsibility, respect, and resilience. By gradually introducing these tasks and praising effort over perfection, you’ll raise someone who feels confident and capable. The bonus? You’ll also reduce your own stress while creating a stronger, more cooperative family dynamic.

What chores have been the most helpful for your kids to learn? Share your experiences and advice in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!

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7 Critical Life Skills Most Parents Never Teach Their Children

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7 Critical Life Skills Most Parents Never Teach Their Children

Parents spend years guiding kids through schoolwork, sports schedules, and extracurriculars, all in the name of preparing them for the “real world.” But somewhere between science projects and piano recitals, many children are missing out on skills that matter just as much—if not more—once they leave the nest. These overlooked essentials aren’t taught in most classrooms, and they don’t show up on standardized tests. Yet without them, kids may struggle to thrive on their own, no matter how many honors classes they’ve passed. Smart parenting means looking beyond academics and equipping kids with the tools they’ll need to navigate life confidently and responsibly.

These life skills aren’t difficult to teach, but they often get lost in the chaos of daily life. Between juggling work, family obligations, and a packed schedule, it’s easy to assume kids will “just pick it up later.” Unfortunately, many don’t. By taking the time to teach these practical lessons now, parents can save their children years of unnecessary frustration. Here are seven critical life skills that every child should know—and that too many parents forget to pass on.

1. How to Manage Money (Not Just Spend It)

Many kids learn how to swipe a card before they ever understand where money actually comes from or how fast it can disappear. Teaching children to budget, save, and prioritize spending is one of the most essential steps toward financial independence. They need to learn about needs vs. wants, how to compare prices, and the true cost of things like credit cards and subscriptions. Even a basic understanding of saving for a goal helps them build responsible habits early. Smart parenting includes empowering kids with financial literacy—not just allowance.

2. How to Handle Failure Without Falling Apart

Every child will fail at something eventually. Whether it’s a missed assignment, a lost game, or not making the team, how they bounce back matters more than the failure itself. Parents often rush in to fix things or soften the blow, but resilience is a muscle that only grows with use. Teaching kids how to learn from setbacks, take responsibility, and try again builds grit and emotional strength. Life won’t always hand out trophies—smart parenting prepares kids for that.

3. How to Speak Up for Themselves (Respectfully)

Advocating for oneself doesn’t come naturally to all children. Whether it’s asking a teacher for help, correcting a mistake at the doctor’s office, or standing up to a peer, kids need to know how to speak clearly and confidently. Practice starts at home—encouraging polite disagreement, respectful debate, and even letting kids question decisions in safe ways helps build this skill. It teaches them that their voice matters and that asking questions isn’t the same as being rude. This kind of communication is a pillar of healthy adulthood.

4. How to Set Boundaries and Say No

Many parents want their kids to be kind and cooperative, but without also teaching boundaries, kindness can turn into people-pleasing. Saying no is a life skill that protects mental health, relationships, and even safety. Kids need to learn that it’s okay to step away from situations that make them uncomfortable or to decline requests that don’t feel right. Teaching them to recognize their limits—and respect others’—is a huge part of emotional intelligence. Smart parenting means raising kids who know how to stand up for themselves without guilt.

5. How to Do Basic Household Tasks

It’s shocking how many teens don’t know how to wash a load of laundry, cook a simple meal, or unclog a drain. Parents often take over these chores in the name of saving time, but in the long run, that does kids a disservice. By age 10 or 12, children should be learning how to contribute meaningfully to household operations. It builds responsibility, confidence, and a stronger sense of teamwork. Plus, it ensures they won’t panic when they eventually live on their own.

6. How to Navigate Conflict

Conflict is a natural part of life, whether it’s with a sibling, a friend, or a coworker. Many kids are either taught to avoid it altogether or to lash out when they feel cornered. Teaching conflict resolution involves helping them stay calm, express their feelings, and listen to others—all without resorting to blame or silence. This skill improves every relationship they’ll have in life. When kids know how to talk through issues, they’re better equipped for healthy adulthood.

7. How to Manage Their Own Time

In a world of constant distraction, time management is more critical than ever. Yet many children grow up with their days planned and micromanaged, never learning how to manage their own schedule. Giving kids tools like to-do lists, calendars, and strategies for tackling big tasks helps them take ownership of their time. It prepares them for the freedom (and responsibility) that comes with growing up. Smart parenting means gradually handing over the reins so kids can learn to steer on their own.

Don’t Wait for the “Right Time”—Start Small, Start Now

You don’t need to overhaul your parenting style or start life-skills boot camp. Just weaving small lessons into daily life can have a huge impact over time. Smart parenting isn’t just about grades and activities—it’s about preparing kids for the real world with confidence and common sense. Whether it’s letting them help with dinner or guiding them through a tough conversation, every small step matters. Start now, and your future adult will thank you.

Which life skill do you wish someone had taught you as a kid? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Why Some Parents Protect Their Kids Too Much—and Still Lose

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Why Some Parents Protect Their Kids Too Much and Still Lose

Every parent wants to keep their child safe. From locking cabinet doors to hovering at the playground, protecting kids comes as naturally as breathing. But somewhere between wanting what’s best and fearing the worst, some parents fall into the trap of overprotection. The irony? In trying to shield kids from life’s bumps and bruises, they may actually limit their ability to grow, adapt, and thrive. One of the most overlooked parenting mistakes is assuming constant protection is the same as effective parenting.

Parenting mistakes are often rooted in love but expressed through fear or control. With scary headlines and constant pressure to “do everything right,” it’s no wonder some parents lean heavily toward shielding their kids from discomfort. But discomfort, in manageable doses, is how children develop resilience and independence. When children are overly protected, they miss out on chances to solve problems, make mistakes, and build confidence. In the end, some very parents who try to do everything right may wonder why their child isn’t ready for the real world.

1. Mistaking Safety for Strength

Wanting kids to be safe is essential, but there’s a difference between reasonable precautions and overprotection. Some parents confuse keeping a child safe with keeping them from ever being challenged or uncomfortable. True strength comes from facing small setbacks, learning from failure, and bouncing back. If a child is always shielded from difficulty, they may struggle when life inevitably gets messy. This is one of the most common parenting mistakes with long-term consequences.

2. Fear-Based Parenting Creates Fearful Kids

Overprotective parenting often stems from fear—fear of injury, bullying, failure, or just bad outcomes. But when kids constantly hear that the world is dangerous and they need help at every turn, they absorb that anxiety. Instead of learning how to assess risk and make good choices, they learn to avoid new experiences altogether. This kind of fear-based mindset can follow them into adolescence and adulthood, making it harder to take initiative or cope with setbacks. Recognizing and reversing fear-based parenting mistakes takes conscious effort.

3. Lack of Independence Breeds Insecurity

Children build self-esteem by doing things for themselves. From tying their own shoes to navigating a social conflict, each small victory matters. In trying to help, overprotective parents sometimes rob kids of those small wins. When parents step in too often, children may start to believe they aren’t capable on their own. Encouraging independence early helps correct one of the most stifling parenting mistakes.

4. Over-Scheduling Limits Real-World Experience

In an effort to keep kids busy and productive, some parents fill every moment with structured, adult-supervised activities. While sports, music lessons, and academic programs have their place, kids also need unstructured time to explore, imagine, and even get bored. Free play and real-world experiences—like navigating a disagreement with a friend or figuring out what to do with an afternoon—help build social and problem-solving skills. Overscheduling is one of those parenting mistakes made with good intentions but frustrating outcomes.

5. Protecting Them From Consequences Backfires

One of the hardest parts of parenting is letting kids fail. Watching a child forget their homework or lose a privilege is painful, but stepping in to “rescue” them every time can backfire. When kids aren’t allowed to experience the natural consequences of their actions, they don’t learn accountability. Shielding children from every disappointment doesn’t spare them pain—it just delays the lesson. Of all parenting mistakes, preventing consequences may be the most damaging to long-term growth.

6. Resilience Is a Skill, Not a Trait

Many parents hope their children will grow into resilient, adaptable adults. But resilience isn’t something kids are born with—it’s something they learn through experience. Letting kids face challenges, even small ones, gives them the practice they need to develop emotional grit. Whether it’s losing a game or working through a tough friendship, each challenge builds coping skills. Parenting mistakes often happen when we confuse ease with success.

7. Overprotected Kids Often Rebel

Ironically, kids who grow up with overly strict or protective parenting often push back the hardest. Feeling micromanaged or smothered can lead to secretive behavior, rebellion, or extreme risk-taking as kids get older. When children aren’t given age-appropriate freedom, they may crave independence so much that they seek it out in unsafe ways. Understanding this pattern helps parents adjust before those parenting mistakes escalate.

The Goal Isn’t Perfection—It’s Preparation

Protecting kids is natural, but overprotecting them is a trap that can hinder the very growth parents want to support. The goal of parenting isn’t to prevent every mistake or discomfort—it’s to prepare kids to handle them. Independence, confidence, and resilience don’t come from being shielded. They come from learning how to fall and get back up, with loving guidance along the way. Avoiding parenting mistakes doesn’t mean being perfect—it means staying open to reflection and course correction.

Have you ever caught yourself being a little too protective? How did you learn to let go a little? Let’s talk about it in the comments!

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10 Places Your Kids Can Learn Real-Life Skills (That Schools Won’t Teach Them)

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10 Places Your Kids Can Learn Real Life Skills That Schools Wont Teach Them

Schools cover a lot—reading, math, science, and history—but some of life’s most important lessons don’t appear in any textbook. Real-life skills like budgeting, cooking, negotiation, time management, and emotional intelligence often get skipped in favor of standardized testing. That’s where parents come in. The world outside the classroom is full of valuable teaching moments if you know where to look. You don’t need a formal curriculum to help your child become capable, confident, and self-sufficient.

Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, these everyday places can become powerful learning environments. Each one offers hands-on opportunities to build practical knowledge they’ll use for the rest of their lives. Let’s take a look at 10 spots where kids can gain real-world experience and pick up real-life skills that schools often leave out.

1. The Grocery Store

The grocery store is a crash course in budgeting, nutrition, planning, and patience. Have your child help make the shopping list, compare prices, or keep track of spending. They’ll quickly learn how to make trade-offs, read labels, and stick to a plan. Older kids can calculate unit prices and determine which items offer better value. This is one of the easiest ways to sneak in lessons on money management and healthy choices.

2. The Kitchen

Cooking teaches more than just how to follow a recipe—it builds confidence, creativity, and independence. Measuring ingredients helps with math, while prepping meals reinforces safety, cleanliness, and nutrition. Kids also learn time management and how to multitask effectively. Let younger kids wash veggies or stir ingredients, and give older ones control over simple meals. Kitchen time is hands-on, satisfying, and endlessly useful in adulthood.

3. The Library

Libraries offer more than books—they teach responsibility, self-directed learning, and digital literacy. Kids learn how to find information, manage return deadlines, and explore topics that interest them. Library cards can be their first experience with personal accountability. Many libraries also offer free workshops, tech classes, and community events. It’s a great way to build curiosity while reinforcing real-life skills like organization and follow-through.

4. The Bank

A visit to the bank (or even using a banking app together) is an opportunity to demystify money. Kids can learn how to deposit checks, understand savings and interest, and see where their money goes. Explain the difference between checking and savings accounts and how budgeting tools work. This real-world exposure builds financial literacy from a young age. It also opens the door to conversations about earning, spending, and saving wisely.

5. The Post Office

While it may seem old-school, the post office teaches kids how to address mail, understand postage, and follow procedures. They can learn about sending packages, filling out forms, and respecting queues and deadlines. Understanding how systems work—from stamps to tracking numbers—teaches attention to detail. It’s a small but valuable lesson in responsibility and logistics. Plus, writing letters helps build communication and social skills.

6. Local Volunteer Organizations

Volunteering is one of the best ways to teach empathy, teamwork, and social responsibility. Whether they help at an animal shelter, food bank, or park clean-up, kids gain real-life skills that go far beyond the classroom. They see the impact of their actions and develop a deeper appreciation for their community. Volunteering also helps kids practice leadership, follow directions, and interact with diverse groups of people. It’s an excellent way to foster gratitude and personal growth.

7. The Hardware Store

A trip to the hardware store can turn into a masterclass in problem-solving and home maintenance. Talk about how different tools work, why materials cost what they do, and how to plan for a repair project. Let kids help choose paint colors, count screws, or measure lumber. Projects at home—like fixing a leaky faucet or building a shelf—teach practical skills that schools rarely touch. This kind of hands-on learning builds both competence and confidence.

8. Family Budget Meetings

Inviting your kids into simple money discussions at home helps them understand how financial decisions get made. Break down the basics of income, expenses, bills, and savings goals. Let them suggest ideas for cutting costs or saving up for something fun as a family. Kids who are included in budgeting early learn to be thoughtful and realistic about money. It’s one of the best ways to model financial responsibility.

9. The Car

The car can be a classroom on wheels, from filling up gas to checking tire pressure. Show kids how to read the dashboard, schedule maintenance, or even change a tire. Older teens should know how to budget for gas and basic car care before they’re handed keys. These lessons teach responsibility, attention to detail, and long-term planning. Plus, they help prevent costly mistakes down the road.

10. The Workplace (Even Just Visiting Yours)

Letting your child see what you do for work teaches them about effort, routine, and professionalism. Whether it’s an office, construction site, or small business, they’ll start to understand the value of time and labor. Ask if they want to help with simple tasks or shadow for an hour. It gives context to your daily schedule and helps them think about their own future goals. Plus, they’ll appreciate your efforts more when they see what “a day at work” really means.

Real-Life Lessons Don’t Require a Lesson Plan

You don’t need to be a teacher to teach real-life skills. Daily errands and household routines can become powerful learning moments with just a little intention. By involving your kids in the real world, you’re preparing them for the kind of independence, resilience, and resourcefulness no standardized test can measure.

What everyday places have helped your kids learn real-world lessons? Share your insights in the comments!

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Free Chore Chart Template for Kids

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Chore Chart Template for Kids

My kids started helping with chores when they were about 18 months to 2 years of age.  My oldest got his own little broom that would recite, “sweeping, sweeping” as he swept.  He loved that broom, and he loved helping out.  Most toddlers are eager to do what the people around them are doing.  If you have a toddler and want to start working with them on chores or you want a more organized chore routine for your older kids, consider using one of these free chore chart templates for kids.

Why Assign Kids Chores?

Some parents don’t want their kids to do chores.  They argue that kids should just be kids.  However, there are many valid reasons why you should assign your children chores:

They Learn Valuable Life Skills

When I went to college, I couldn’t believe how many kids didn’t even know how to do their own laundry.  My son started doing his own laundry at 12, and my daughter started at 11.  The larger variety of chores you have your kids do, the better they will be able to successfully live on their own.

They Learn to Contribute

There are many things that need to be done to run a household successfully.  If you don’t expect your kids to contribute, they can grow accustomed to the idea of others doing things for them, which can lead to a sense of entitlement.  The family is the first place kids learn what it means to be part of a group and to help run that group.  This, too, will be a valuable lesson for their adult lives.

Should You Pay Kids for Chores?

Chore Chart Template for Kids

Photo by Anna Earl on Unsplash

This can be another devisive issue.  Some families don’t pay their kids money for chores because they want them to realize that they are part of a family and family members help one another.

Others, like my family, pay their kids for chores because they want kids to firmly make the connection between work and income.  You work, and you earn money.  You don’t work, and you’re broke.

Still others don’t pay cash but instead let their kids earn privileges like watching a show, or playing a video game, or staying up late based on the chores they do.

The choice is up to you and what your family decides will work best.

Free Chore Chart Template for Kids

There is no need for you to create your own chore chart template for kids when there are so many out there!  Here are a few of our favorites:

Healthy, Happy, Impactful has a chore chart template that gives blank lines to list up to eight chores beside squares for days of the week.  Just check off each day that the chore is completed.  There is also a box at the bottom for notes.

Plan for Awesome has a chore chart template for toddlers.  This one is unique in that rather than words, there are pictures so your littlest helpers can understand.  You can also use the pictures and words for the preschool and early elementary set.

Make any one of these chore charts last longer by laminating them or placing them in a plastic sleeve so you can use them week after week.

Final Thoughts

There’s no time like the present to start having your kids help with chores.  These free chore templates can help motivate them and help them find pride in their accomplishments.

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We’re Trying to Raise Independent Kids

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In our effort to raise independent kids my husband and I support our daughter in her choices. Although, there are some things we won't budge on.Before getting pregnant for the first time, my husband and I agreed that we would raise our children to make their own choices, to experience things both good and bad and learn from their mistakes. We feel it is the best way to define yourself as an individual, as it can be just as important to find out what you don’t like in life as it is to discover your passions.

Our daughter has already shown an affinity for dance, sports and all things mechanical. She loves her weekly ballet class and spends the days between showcasing her newly-learned moves to anybody she runs into. She loves soccer, and is looking forward to playing again this summer. On her “team” last year, you can tell which children were into it and wanting to participate, and the ones that were, let’s say, indifferent. She is among the former.

Likely due to the conversations with her Daddy, her love for planes, trains and automobiles (any machine or vehicle, really) shines through. To wit, when it comes to screen time, by far her favourite show is Paw Patrol, featuring puppies operating high-tech rescue vehicles.

As long as she continues to show a passion for these things, we’ll continue to support her. Sports and tech are easy things for us to support, and though dance is a new one for my husband and I, we love how much of a positive impact it has had on her already.

Though my husband and I consider ourselves to be fans of music, neither of us play an instrument. That said, if our daughter came to us wanting to learn an instrument, we’d absolutely do everything we could to support her.

There are some things that we won’t budge on in terms of development. First and foremost, reading is a big part of our daughter’s life. Every night before bed, she gets two books read to her, and at various times throughout the day we’ll read to her. We’ll promote reading once she begins school, and will continue to ensure she develops her communication skills. Good communication skills are crucial as both a person and professional.

Another thing we will not be variable on is time spent outdoors. We grew up camping, playing in the woods and spending time under the stars at the family cottage. Our daughter will spend time doing the same. She won’t be a child that spends all of her time inside. Luckily for us, to this point she’s shown a love for the outdoors, and as she gets older we’re excited about the thought of things like canoe trips, orienteering and other such adventures.

We very much want our daughter, and any other future children, to be their own people. It’s important for them to have unique personalities and to be unafraid to embrace and express their passions in life. We’ll be behind them no matter what, and though we’ll be staunch on communication skills and the outdoors, our children will be able to choose their own path hopefully knowing who they are as a person, and knowing their mom and dad love them and are there for them through it all.

How do you nurture independence in your kids?