As parents, we all want our toddlers to grow into confident, capable little humans. But as busy moms and dads juggling work, house chores, and family life, it’s easy to wonder how to teach independence without feeling stretched too thin.
I get it. I’m a mom too, and I’ve had those moments when I wished I could do everything for my kids but knew I needed to let them explore and learn. Encouraging independence doesn’t mean leaving them to figure it all out on their own, it’s about giving them the tools, space, and gentle guidance they need to thrive.
Let’s talk about how to foster toddler independence in a way that works for you and your family.
When Do Toddlers Start Becoming Independent?
You might notice your toddler showing signs of independence as early as 18 months. It could be something as simple as wanting to hold their spoon during mealtime or insisting on putting their shoes on by themselves.
By age two or three, toddlers naturally want to explore their world and do things on their own. While this can sometimes feel like a challenge (“No, Mommy, I do it!”), it’s actually a big milestone in their development.
Why Fostering Independence Matters
Teaching toddlers independence isn’t just about making life easier for us as parents (though let’s be honest, that’s a big perk!). It’s also about helping them build important skills like:
- Self-confidence: When they succeed at something on their own, they feel proud of themselves.
- Problem-solving: Trying new tasks teaches them how to figure things out.
- Responsibility: Taking part in simple chores helps them feel capable and involved.
Even small steps toward independence, like picking up their toys or helping in the kitchen, are big wins for their growth.
How to Teach a Toddler Independence
1. Start With Independent Play
One of the simplest ways to encourage independence is through independent play. This is when your toddler plays on their own, using their imagination to build, create, or explore without needing constant supervision.
Start small by setting up a safe, inviting play space with a few open-ended toys. Items like blocks, puzzles, or pretend food are great for sparking creativity. Over time, you’ll notice your child playing longer and more confidently without needing you right next to them.
When do toddlers start playing independently?
Most toddlers can manage short bursts of independent play around 12–18 months. By age two or three, they can engage in solo play for 10–20 minutes or more.
2. Use Tools That Build Confidence
Toddlers love being included in family activities, and giving them the right tools can make a big difference. One tool I’ve personally found helpful is a foldable learning tower (also called a toddler tower or helper stool).
A learning tower is an adjustable step stool that allows toddlers to safely join you at counter height. Whether it’s helping mix pancake batter, rinsing veggies, or washing their hands at the sink, it’s amazing to see how much pride they take in these little tasks.
The beauty of the learning tower is that it turns everyday moments like cooking or cleaning into opportunities for growth and connection. Plus, its foldable, space-saving design makes it easy to use and store, even in smaller spaces.
Further reading: The Importance of Toddler Learning Towers in our Independent Home
3. Encourage Everyday Independence
Building independence doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, some of the best ways to teach a toddler independence happen during your regular routines.
Here are a few examples:
- Getting dressed: Let them choose between two outfits or practice putting on their socks.
- Tidying up: Encourage them to put their toys back in a bin or stack books on a shelf.
- Helping with meals: Allow them to set their placemat, use a toddler chopper knife to help cut soft foods, or pour water into a cup.
These small, manageable tasks help toddlers feel like they’re contributing, which boosts their confidence.
4. Be Patient and Celebrate Small Wins
Independence doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Teaching your toddler new skills will require time and patience, but every little step counts.
If your child is learning to zip their jacket, for example, you might need to show them how a few times before they get it. Celebrate their efforts along the way, even if it’s just holding the zipper steady, and cheer them on when they finally succeed.
5. Support Independent Learning
Independent learning is another wonderful way to help toddlers grow. This happens when they explore and solve problems on their own, like figuring out how to fit shapes into a sorter or building a block tower.
You can encourage this by offering toys and activities that challenge them just enough to keep them engaged without frustration. Watching them discover new things is such a rewarding experience!
How to Encourage Independent Play
If you’re wondering how to get your toddler started with independent play, here are a few tips:
- Set up a predictable space: Keep their toys accessible and organized so they can grab what they need without help.
- Keep it simple: Too many options can be overwhelming. Rotate toys every week to keep things interesting.
- Praise their efforts: Let them know how proud you are of their creativity and focus.
With time and practice, you’ll notice your toddler becoming more confident in exploring and entertaining themselves.
Why a Learning Tower Is a Busy Parent’s Best Friend
For busy parents, tools like the learning tower can be a lifesaver. It gives your toddler the freedom to safely participate in everyday tasks, fostering independence while strengthening your bond. Unlike other stools, it’s also designed with safety rails, making it stable and secure for little climbers.
Some of my favorite moments with my kids have been spent around the kitchen counter—mixing ingredients, decorating cookies, or even just chatting while they “help.” These are the moments when independence blossoms, and I cherish every one of them.
Investing in a quality learning tower is like giving your child a front-row seat to real-life learning.
Final Thoughts
As parents, we all want what’s best for our toddlers. Encouraging independence is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. It helps them grow into capable, confident individuals while making life a little easier for us, too.
Remember, it’s not about rushing or pushing too hard. Start small, be patient, and celebrate the progress you see in your child. You’ve got this!
Looking for a way to make your toddler more independent? Explore our selection of beautifully designed, safe, and multifunctional toddler towers to transform everyday moments into valuable learning experiences. We even have ones that fold to store in smaller spaces!
Let’s help our little ones take their first steps toward independence—one climb at a time!
