As parents, it’s important to know when to let go and allow our children to explore the world on their own. Nurturing a sense of independence in our children is vital in helping them thrive, enabling them to make their own decisions and develop confidence and self-sufficiency. By empowering them with choices and allowing them some freedom of exploration, we can help our children grow into confident, independent adults.

Defining the traits and characteristics that go into “independence” can help caregivers and parents understand how to nurture a sense of independence in their children. Characteristics like trial-and-error problem-solving, tolerating failure without giving up, being able to develop confidence by seeing success, and accepting responsibility are all traits that go into being identified as an independent child.

“Understanding your child’s cognitive, emotional, social and physical capabilities from a developmental perspective may be the best place to start,” says Dr. Shefali Gandhi, a licensed psychologist in Scottsdale, Arizona. “Remember, your child is growing, which comes with struggles, and this may be hard, but independent children tend to grow into healthier adults.”

As parents how do we know when to let go so our children can learn and thrive?

How do we helping them develop a healthy sense of autonomy? Where do we start?

All these questions and more are answered in the Summer issue of MASK The Magazine Nurturing Independence Issue – Helping Children thrive by empowering their choices.

Additionally, this issue brings advise on helping your child avoid online drama , and MASK’s “Need-to-Know” tips on bullying, technology, drug trends and safety. MASK takes pride in keeping you up to date with quarterly information on health, prevention and connection. Don’t forget to check out MASK’s “A List” of family friendly must-have items.