How to teach kids to be independent

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — It is only a matter of time before you let the tots learn and do things on their own. Here are some ways you can help them take baby steps to be independent.

Let them do chores in exchange for their toy or gadget requests

Spoiling is a no-no in parenting. Don’t give in to each request to purchase an item they saw at a toy store or a gaming console shop. Teach them the value of hard work by letting them do extra household chores in exchange for the things they want. This can also awaken their entrepreneurial spirit and enhance their financial literacy at a young age.

Ask them to buy ingredients at the nearby sari-sari store

Another way to teach them responsibility is by asking them to buy ingredients at the nearby sari-sari store. Just make sure that your neighborhood is relatively safe for pedestrians. It is also important that it is a supervised store run especially for children. This task can also teach them to be honest because you are handing out cash and trusting them that they would not buy things other than what you have told them.

Giving him a pet

If your child insists on having a pet, it is best to start small by having your child take care of a pet fish or a hamster before gradually progressing to a dog or a cat. Let your child know that caring for a pet goes beyond feeding, bathing, and cleaning. He must be responsible for walking and playing with the pet. As a parent, make sure that the animals are not rabid. Bring your kid with their pet regularly to the vet’s clinic so he would also have a sense of responsibility over a living creature.

Teach them how to air fry a corndog

Cooking is one of the ways we can teach children how to be independent. If you are still afraid they’re going to get hurt by frying meals with cooking oil, you can introduce them first to the “magic” of the air fryer.

Let them get a pack of Purefoods Tender Juicy Cheesy Corndog. Then guide them to place the pieces on the air fryer. Then have them air fry the corndogs at 400F/204C for 6-8 minutes.

Next, remind them to wear oven mitts when opening the air fryer’s container. Make sure to thank them for preparing Purefoods Tender Juicy Cheesy Corndog snacks to immortalize this core memory. It’s also a great idea to eat together while watching your favorite show or movie at home.

Tender Juicy Cheesy Corndog is available in your nearest supermarket, groceries, The SMC Hub, Lazada, and Shopee.