Hello all,
My husband and I are in a pickle. Our ds almost 8 is in need of some independence. He has expressed some feelings and behaviors over the last couple of weeks, and God has given us enough wisdom to know that he's really trying to gain some independence. His expressions have been negative, so we are looking for some positive outlets for him to make decisions about things on his own, feel responsible for something, and feel in control over something. He is a very responsible and respectful little boy, and we feel he is ready to have some parent-guided independence. I know this is something that will grow in years to come, and we and he are ready to begin the process.
For you more experienced mommas, what are some ways you have given your children independence and safe outlets for them to make decisions for something on their own, while you and your husband kept a watchful and wise eye over them?
We have had someone suggest allowing him to plan breakfasts or lunches from now on and also be responsible for making the grocery list, but since we're on the GAPS diet, that won't exactly give him a whole lot of freedom in his choices. Something like that is what I'm seeking though...something we can guide him in and provide supervision, but that he is responsible for and feels like he's "being a man", you know?
Any ideas are appreciated and will be considered. My parents were not good examples for me in gradually giving parent-guided independence, so I have nothing to look to. My husband had awesome parents, but he also grew up in an age when children were allowed to play away from home all the time and knew it was time to come home when the porch light came on. So, we're both sort of at a loss.
Many thanks,
Lindsey
