Support your child's choices and voice in decisions.
Encourage life skills like budgeting, self-advocacy and chores.
Practice independence step-by-step in safe ways.
Use supported decision-making and legal tools as needed.
Teach safety skills while letting your child take on new challenges.
Independence
Independence is more than living on your own. It's being informed, believed and heard. It's making your own decisions. It's knowing that your rights are protected and supported. As your child moves toward greater independence, nurture their self-determination and informed decision-making.
Encourage your child to participate in community activities, clubs and volunteer experiences. Promoting connections with peers and trusted adults will help your child practice new skills, navigate social expectations and ultimately embrace independence.
Key things to know:
In this section, learn about how to support your child's independence:
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Your role is changing - and that's okay
Your young adult's life is their own, and they should have a voice in how they want to live it.
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Plan for independence
As your child grows, building confidence in themselves is an important step towards adult life.
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Supporting decision-making and understanding legal options
The path to independence and self-determination requires many decisions.
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Helping your child stay safe while becoming more independent
Encouraging your child to be independent may feel risky, but it doesn't have to be.
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