Every parent wants to see their child independent and responsible, able to make decisions and be responsible for the results of their actions. It's nice to see that your child can make his own decision, make a choice, and defend his point of view. It is very important to note that independent choice also means the ability to take responsibility for one’s decision and therefore teaching independence is very important. So what is independence? An independent child strives and knows how to act on his own initiative, and, no less important, notices the need for his participation in certain matters; knows how to perform usual tasks without seeking help or supervision from an adult; knows how to consciously act in a situation of given requirements and operating conditions; he can consciously act in new conditions, that is, set a goal, take into account conditions, carry out basic planning, get results; is able to carry out basic self-control and self-assessment of performance results; has the desire and ability to transfer known methods of action to new conditions. In order to cultivate independence in a child, you need to act gradually and start early enough. This is long and painstaking work. The first aspirations for independence can be noticed as early as 1-2 years. But it manifests itself especially strongly and vividly at the age of three. The slogan of this age is: “I am myself!” In developmental psychology there is such a concept as the “three-year crisis.” At this age, the child strives to do everything on his own, he develops pride in his own actions. It is very important not to miss this moment and support the child in independent manifestations. Encourage your child to be independent, but remain an observer. Give your child the opportunity to make a mistake, because by making mistakes and being mistaken, our children learn to look for a way out of difficult situations and make their first independent decisions. Be proud of the words “I am myself,” but at the same time, do not refuse help to the child if he asks for it. Characteristics of adolescence are liberation from parental care, the development of a personal value system, and the formation of life goals. With proper upbringing and development, by the end of adolescence, the child’s independence is finally formed. The teenager already realizes that independence is not permissiveness and not just action without outside help. Independence is a meaningful, socially acceptable action, which is guided by the norms and laws accepted in society. So how can you cultivate independence in a child?1. First of all, do not do for your child what he is able to do himself. First, you should help the child with difficult tasks for him, remind him, back him up, do them together, then gradually let him go, give him the opportunity to act independently.2. If it is difficult for a child and he is ready to accept your help, be sure to help him. At the same time, take upon yourself only what he cannot do on his own, leave the rest to him to do, and as the child masters new actions, gradually transfer them to him. 3. It is useful to remember the rule: “You learn from mistakes.” You should not “put straws” anywhere where the child might fall. It is important to leave him the opportunity to face the unpleasant consequences of his actions or inaction. This is the only way he will grow up and learn to be not only independent, but also responsible, which is also very important. 4. Gradually but steadily relieve yourself of care and responsibility for the child’s personal affairs and transfer them to him. A person - regardless of whether it is a child or an adult - can find ways to solve his problem himself if he feels and receives psychological support. Remember, no matter what a child does, he needs our recognition. Don’t forget to praise your child and rejoice with him in his achievements. Good luck to you in raising your children!