Teaching Your Child Self-Reliance

This month (May issue) Parenting 1-2-3 columnist Dr. Robyn Silverman launches the first in an ongoing series of articles in Bay State Parent magazine on teaching your child self-reliance. (Coming in July: Teaching Your Child How to Pack His Own Bag/Suitcase for a Summer Vacation.)

By Dr. Robyn Silverman
"I hate to see her struggle like that."
"I'll just do it for him this one time."
"We're in a rush so…"
It's just one of those things, isn't it?
We all do it every once in a while. Maybe it's because it's easier, faster, or better if we do it for them. A little more time. A little less frustration. Maybe it's just because we love them so much. So sometimes, we make their beds, tie their shoes, pack their bags, prepare their lunches, wipe their faces, and do their chores for them, even when we know that they can do it by themselves.
But our choices can backfire. They can make children overly dependant on others and rob them of the opportunities to challenge themselves and build self confidence in their own abilities.
With the term "helicopter parents" (used to describe overprotective parents who hover too closely and help too readily whether their children need their assistance or not) infused into everyday vernacular, Moms and Dads are trying to stay clear of the label.
It can be challenging for parents to know when to let their child fly solo and when (and if) they should assist or take over.
In our hearts, we know that it's developmentally fitting for children to become more self reliant as they age.
The most powerful parents aim to strike a balance between allowing their children to do tasks on their own and helping them when they really need it. This balance allows their children to thrive because they feel more confident in themselves while still feeling supported and properly mentored.
When it comes time to teach self reliance to children, Dr. Robyn has 10 tips. To read them, pick up a copy of the May issue or read her column at Bay State Parent magazine's Web site at http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2008/0501/articles/028.html
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WEEKEND PICK: Dr. Robyn in the Lead Role of Bye Bye Birdie

This weekend March 28-29-30 (and also on April 4 & 5) check out Bay State Parent magazine Parenting 1-2-3 columnist Dr. Robyn Silverman in the lead role of Rose Alvarez in Randolph Theatre Community's production of Bye Bye Birdie.

Performances are Friday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday March 30 at 2 p.m., Friday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday April 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Randolph High auditorium at 70 Memorial Drive.

For tickets and more details e-mail the Randolph Theatre Company at randolphtheatrecompany@yahoo.com or call the Recreation Office at 781- 961-0936

February issue off to the printers

We completed the February issue today and sent it to the printers.
I hope you love it as much as we do!
Inside the issue, you'll find the:
* 4th Annual Family Finance Guide
* Preschool Guide: Everything You Need To Know To Get Your Child Enrolled
* Winners of our 4th Annual Amateur Photo Contest
plus all the great columns and features you've come to expect from us.
Pondering Parenting Columnist Dr. Kerri Augusto talks about her adoration for American Girl dolls and Parenting 1-2-3 Columnist Dr. Robyn Silverman offers tips on how parents can teach children to plant money trees.
Please check out Calendar Editor Carrie Wattu's & my 10 picks for things to do during school vacation week, including our 10th birthday party at Frog Pond in Boston. Spend an evening ice skating under the lights Monday, Feb. 19 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Admission is free (skate rentals are extra), if you bring a new and unwrapped toy for our charity - Smiling Kids Inc. (www.smilingkidsinc.org)
The February issue should be at your favorite location beginning Feb. 1.
Feel free to e-mail me with your thoughts at editor@baystateparent.com
Take care,
Susan