Building Independence

Dear L&L Family,

Can you believe we’ve already turned the page to March? After what has felt like a very long stretch of winter coats, extra mittens, and chilly morning drop-offs, the promise of Spring is finally peeking around the corner (even if today’s weather is not the best example for it). This weekend, we’ll also be “springing forward” as Daylight Saving Time begins. That’s an adjustment that can feel surprisingly big for little bodies and developing routines. While the extra evening light is something many of us welcome, the time shift can temporarily throw off daily rhythms for young children. As we ease into this seasonal shift together, it’s the perfect moment to focus on something that helps children navigate change with confidence: building independence.

At L&L, one of the most meaningful milestones we celebrate throughout early childhood is the growing sense of “I can do it!” Whether it’s putting on a jacket, washing hands independently, choosing a book, or helping clean up after playtime, these small acts of independence build confidence, resilience, and pride in young learners. When children feel capable and trusted, they approach new experiences with curiosity rather than hesitation.

Independence in early childhood doesn’t mean children are expected to do everything on their own. Instead, it means creating opportunities for them to try, practice, and learn with gentle support nearby. At school, our teachers thoughtfully design classroom routines that encourage children to participate in their own care and environment, such as pouring water during snack, helping set up lunch or activities, choosing materials, and practicing problem-solving with peers. These moments may seem small, but they are powerful building blocks for lifelong confidence.

When children are given time and space to attempt things independently, they also develop patience and perseverance. A toddler struggling to pull on a mitten or a preschooler carefully zipping their coat is actually practicing focus, coordination, and problem-solving all at once. The joy on their faces when they succeed is a wonderful reminder that learning often happens in these everyday moments.

Supporting independence doesn’t require big changes, but rather small opportunities woven into daily routines. Here are some simple ways we utilize at school that you too can support at home:

Offer manageable choices:
Allow children to choose between two options (“blue shirt or red shirt?”). This helps them practice decision-making while keeping things manageable.

Create child-friendly spaces:
Hooks for coats, low shelves for toys, and accessible snack containers help children participate more actively in their environment.

Allow extra time:
When possible, build in a few extra minutes so your child can try tasks themselves, even if it takes a little longer.

Celebrate effort, not perfection:
The goal isn’t doing things perfectly. It is building confidence through practice.

Let children help:
Toddlers and preschoolers love meaningful “jobs”, such as carrying napkins to the table, helping pack their backpack, watering plants, or putting toys away. At L&L, we see every day how proud children feel when they realize they are capable contributors to their classroom community, and therefore, picking our “jobs” during circle time (in the older classrooms) is always one of the most beloved parts of our day!

And as always, books are a great support in promoting and fostering independence! Here are some stories about capable, determined characters that can help you reinforce this growing sense of confidence in your children:

For Toddlers
• I Can Do It Myself! by Stephen Krensky
• Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle
• The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! by Mo Willems
• Maisy Dresses Up by Lucy Cousins
• The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach

For Preschoolers (3–4 years old)
• Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
• I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes
• What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada
• The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
• Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell
• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

These stories beautifully remind children that trying, learning, and growing are all part of the adventure.

As we step into March and begin to feel the subtle shift toward spring, we are continually inspired by the ways our students are growing in confidence, curiosity, and independence. Each day brings new “I did it!” moments, and it is such a joy for our teachers to witness and celebrate them alongside your families.

Thank you, as always, for partnering with us in nurturing capable, confident children. We are so grateful for our L&L community and for the opportunity to support your wonderful children as they grow, explore, and discover just how much they can do!