Building Independence: Simple Steps Toward Self-Reliance
At The Bubble Bus, we believe independence isn’t something children simply grow into—it’s something they practise every day. Whether it’s choosing a snack, putting on a coat, or solving a small challenge, everyday moments of autonomy help children build the confidence and skills they’ll need as they grow.
Helping children become self-reliant doesn’t require grand gestures. It’s about recognising and embracing the everyday opportunities to encourage initiative and responsibility.
What Do the Experts Say?
MARIA MONTESSORI, founder of the Montessori method, believed that independence is central to learning. "Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed," she advised. Her method encourages giving children the time and space to do things for themselves, building both skill and self-worth.
LEV VYGOTSKY, the Russian psychologist behind the “Zone of Proximal Development,” emphasised the importance of guided support. He believed that children flourish when gently encouraged just beyond their current capabilities, developing confidence through successful experiences.
DR BECKY BAILEY, founder of Conscious Discipline, stresses that emotional safety is key to independence. When children feel secure and supported, they’re more likely to explore, take initiative, and embrace challenges.
Encouraging Independence at Home
Helping your child build independence starts with simple, everyday habits. Here are a few ways to support self-reliance at home:
Offer choices: Let your child choose between two outfits or snacks to build confidence in decision-making.
Allow time for them to do things themselves: Add a few extra minutes to your morning routine so your child can practise getting dressed independently.
Create routines: Predictable daily schedules help children anticipate what comes next and take initiative.
Use supportive language: Replace “Be careful” with “Show me how slowly you can walk on that wall” to build awareness and responsibility.
Celebrate effort, not just results: Acknowledge persistence—“You really concentrated on buttoning that shirt!”
These simple practices give children the space to try, learn, and take pride in what they can do.
At The Bubble Bus
Independence is woven into every experience at The Bubble Bus. From the moment children arrive, they’re encouraged to take initiative, make choices, and be active participants in their own learning.
Our sessions are carefully designed to meet children where they are and support their individual growth:
Tigers Adventures (now split into two age groups) supports children at every stage. Younger Tigers explore through sensory-rich, hands-on activities that promote curiosity and autonomy. They practise responsibility by placing their bags under their names, choosing their snacks, and helping to tidy up. Older Tigers participate in school-readiness routines, such as changing shoes, selecting games during free play, and making decisions during creative tasks like drawing or crafting.
By creating space for children to try, make decisions, and learn through experience, we help them build not only practical skills but also a sense of belief in themselves. Independence is not about doing everything alone—it’s about having the confidence to try, the resilience to persevere, and the awareness to ask for help when needed.
At The Bubble Bus, every zipped coat, thoughtful choice, and solved puzzle is a step towards a more confident, capable child.
