Teen Independence
As a school psychologist who has worked with children, teenagers, young adults and families for more than 20 years, I've seen that independence doesn't suddenly appear when a child turns 18. It develops through hundreds of small opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, experience consequences and take responsibility.
Academic Independence
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Managing assignments
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Communicating with teachers
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Studying independently
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Asking for help appropriately
Personal Independence
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Hygiene
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Laundry
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Organization
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Sleep routines
Social Independence
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Making decisions
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Handling conflict
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Advocating for themselves
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Choosing friends
Emotional Independence
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Managing frustration
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Coping with disappointment
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Identifying emotions
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Seeking support
Practical Independence
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Cooking
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Transportation
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Money
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Scheduling
10 Skills Every Teenager Needs to Become More Independent
Before your teenagers launch into adulthood, they need to get plenty of practice!
Problem Solving
Being able to solve problems includes finding legitimate information, resources and experts
Self-Advocacy
Can your teenager advocate for themselves to get what they need (not just want)
Repsonsibility
This includes being responsible for their actions, belongings and thinking how their actions impact their future
Decision Making
Teens will have to learn how to apply cost-benefit analysis and weight risks versus rewards when making decisions
Communication
Being able to effectively communicate with peers and adults
Money Management
Can your teen manage their own money including saving, investing and budgeting
Time Management
Teens will need to learn how to initiate and manage time efficiently and when feeling unmotivated
Emotional Regulation
Emotions are normal, learning how to handle them takes practice
Self-Care
This includes taking care of physical, social and emotional needs
Asking for Help
No one can do it all on their own! Learning when to ask for help (and how) is a life long skill