Hello dear parent,

Children do not just wake up one day knowing how to think for themselves.

It is something we must teach them from early on.

In Nigeria, sometimes we focus so much on obedience that we forget to teach independence.

We want our children to listen, but do we want them to think?

We want them to follow instructions, but do we want them to question when something does not make sense?

The truth is, the world needs both.

But thinking comes first.

Here are 3 simple ways to start today

1. Ask "What do you think?"

Instead of always giving answers, ask questions.

"What do you think will happen if we leave the ice cream outside?"

"What do you think we should do about this problem?"

When you ask, you are telling them their thoughts matter.

2. Let them make small decisions

Start with simple choices:

  • "Do you want to wear the blue shirt or the red one?"
  • "Should we read this book or that one?"
  • "What do you think we should have for dinner?"

Small decisions build confidence in their own judgment.

3. Encourage questions

When they ask "Why?" do not shut them down.

Say "That is a great question. Let us find out together."

Questions are the beginning of thinking.

And thinking is the beginning of wisdom.

Remember this

A child who thinks for themselves will not always agree with you.

They might question your decisions.

They might have different ideas.

But that is exactly what we want.

Because one day, they will need to make decisions without you.

And when that day comes, you want them to trust their own mind.

Also, join our WhatsApp parenting community where we share more tips and encouragement for raising independent children.

Join our WhatsApp Channel

You are doing an amazing job.

Keep asking questions. Keep encouraging thinking. Keep believing in your child's mind.

Talk soon,
Your friend at Giggle Learn