1. Home
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Single Parents

Encourage a Healthy Sense of Independence at Any Age

By , About.com Guide

2 of 7

Fostering Independence From the Beginning

Infants | Toddlers | Preschoolers | School-age Children | Pre-teens | Teenagers

By nature, your infant is wholly dependent on you. However, it is healthy to allow your child to develop some coping skills and independence. To do this, you can:
  • Provide lots of tummy time for your baby when she's awake.

  • When you're playing together, allow your baby to reach for toys that are just out of reach.

  • Put your child in his crib while he's still awake so he learns to fall asleep on his own.
Explore Single Parents
About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Family Tech Center

Stay connected and entertained with reviews on tips on the latest HDTVs, cellphones and more. More >

  1. Home
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Single Parents
  4. Parenting Advice
  5. Infant Development - Babies - Encouraging a Healthy Sense of Independence

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.