I read recently about the responsibility of parents to transition from a role of Authority to a role of Influence by the time they are moving out of the house. Although I think my children are still young (8, 6, and 1 year), this transition cannot happen abruptly when your child turns 18. Many little age-appropriate steps allow a child to build autonomy and responsibility and practice self-discipline. One of the things I have been trying with the older two is allowing them to walk to and from the bus stop by themselves. I am able to see the bus stop from my window, but it is at the end of our road by a stop sign. I gave them clear expectations on appropriate behavior when walking on the street and the borders of where they can and cannot go, i.e., waiting off to the side and not further than a specified bush in the neighbor’s yard! How are you giving your children age-appropriate opportunities for autonomy and responsibility?
