Please stop speaking for your kids when they can speak for themselves

Want an easy way to teach kids how to be self-sufficient? Allow them to advocate for themselves. It can be as simple as letting kids order for themselves at a restaurant or emailing their teacher first when they have a question or concern. Not only does this teach them effective communication, but it also empowers them to make a choice and speak for themselves. Also, don’t ask the teacher to make an exception and accept late assignments (unless there is a really serious reason). This behavior does not teach a child the importance of deadlines.