There comes a stage in every child’s early years when they begin to say, in their own little way, “I can do it myself.”
They want to line up with their friends, put on their own shoes, feed themselves, and sometimes find a quiet little corner where they can sit and enjoy a book.
To adults, these may seem like simple, everyday moments. But for a young child, every opportunity to do something independently is an important step in early childhood development.
It is through these small moments that children begin to discover that they can make choices, solve simple problems, care for themselves, and accomplish things on their own.
Learning Independence Through Everyday Moments
When children line up by themselves, they begin to understand the importance of waiting for their turn, following routines, and being part of a group. It is a simple experience, but it helps children develop confidence, patience, and an understanding of how to participate in a shared environment.
When they put on their own shoes, they are learning more than just a practical skill. They are learning how to prepare themselves before stepping outside, becoming more aware of their surroundings and developing the confidence to explore the world around them.
When children feed themselves, every little spoonful becomes an opportunity to develop self-help skills. They learn to take initiative, coordinate their movements, and begin to understand how they can take care of their own needs.
And when a child chooses a book, opens it, turns the pages, and becomes absorbed in a story, they are discovering something equally valuable: the joy of making their own choices and exploring something simply because they are curious.
These everyday experiences are an important part of building independence in young children.
Small Steps Towards Confidence
Of course, children may still take their time.
Things may not always be perfectly neat.
A pair of shoes may end up on the wrong feet.
A meal may take a little longer.
A book may be held upside down.
And sometimes, children may still need a little help from the adults around them.
That is perfectly okay.
The goal is not for everything to be done perfectly. The goal is to give children the time, space, and encouragement to try.
Because every attempt is part of learning.
Every small success builds confidence.
And every opportunity to make a choice helps children develop a stronger sense of themselves.
Little by little, they are growing.
Growing through the things they do by themselves.
Making their own choices.
Learning through experience.
And becoming more confident in what they can do.
Creating Opportunities for Independent Learning
At St. Mary’s, we believe that children need meaningful opportunities to practise independence as part of their everyday learning journey.
Independence does not develop overnight. It grows gradually through repeated experiences, patient guidance, encouragement, and the freedom to try.
That is why we create an environment where children are encouraged to try things for themselves, make simple choices, develop self-help skills, and explore at their own pace.
Sometimes, the most meaningful learning does not happen during a planned activity.
It happens when a child successfully puts on their own shoes.
When they patiently wait in line.
When they pick up a spoon and feed themselves.
Or when they quietly choose a book and begin turning the pages.
These may look like small moments.
But for a child, they can be big milestones.
Because behind every little “I did it!” is a growing sense of confidence, capability, and independence. 🌱
At St. Mary’s, we are proud to give children the space to discover that feeling every day:
“I can do it by myself!” 💛
