Self Help
Self-help is about solving problems. Too often we say “Here, let me help you” or “Watch me,” instead of letting children try to do things themselves. If kids
keep trying, they will feel pride and a sense of accomplishment. They will say things like “I did it!” which builds confidence. It also encourages an awareness
that even if there is not a solution immediately or if they make a mistake, they can learn from it and keep trying. Opportunities for children to challenge
themselves and experience success builds the confidence needed to become independent, develop a sense of self, and establish themselves as individuals in the
world.
This section will give you some information about what children are typically doing at various ages and stages in developing their self help skills.
Birth to 12 Months
At birth, a child is completely dependent on others. From infancy, children naturally reach out to the world and seek more achievements and competence.
- holds own bottle
- drinks from a cup with assistance
- begins to eat solid foods
- finger feeds
- helps with dressing by lifting feet
12 to 18 Months
Babies are becoming interested in helping with dressing, feeding, and bathing. They are even able to participate in everyday routines.
- gives up bottle
- uses spoon to feed self with spilling
- drinks from a cup independently
- helps wash hands
- drinks from a straw
18 to 24 Months
Toddlers love doing things themselves. Sometimes it is frustrating, because toddlers are so insistent, and they are not always able to do what they think they
can. The opportunity to practice helps them become more and more capable. They like routines so this is a good time to establish healthy routines like brushing
teeth and washing hands.
- feeds self with a spoon with little spilling
- drinks from a cup independently
- helps wash hands
- drinks from a straw
- beginning to gain bowel and bladder control
24 to 36 Months (2-3 Years)
By age two, controlling their body and making it do what they want it to do are major goals. Gradually, they practice skills to help them reach those goals.
- beginning to use toilet with help
- puts on shoes
- takes off loose clothing
- unbuttons large buttons
- washes and dries hands
- feeds self meal with spilling
36 to 48 Months (3-4 years)
Three-year-olds are good at accomplishing many self-help tasks as well as participating in household tasks. They are increasingly independent and understand
routines and procedures. They want to be a part of everything.
- gets dressed, but needs help with buttons and zippers
- use toilet independently, few accidents
- takes care of hygiene independently
- uses spoon, fork and knife during meals
- brushes teeth