Want to help your little one gain independence and self-help skills?
As your baby becomes a toddler, you’re likely to hear one phrase, over and over again: “I do it!”
Your child’s new insistence that they put on their own shoes or choose what to eat for breakfast marks an exciting developmental milestone. They’re working to build independence, autonomy, and self-help skills!
So how can you support your little one’s need to do more things on their own in a practical, age-appropriate way?
Here are a few ideas:
- Let your toddler make choices when you can, like which shirt to wear or which cup to drink out of
- Set up functional, accessible spaces in your home where your little one can play, eat, get ready, and more
- Help your child practice self-help skills, like combing their hair or preparing a snack
Ready to get started?
Keep reading to learn more and check out some of the best products to help your little one build independence.
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8 great products to help your toddler build independence
This cozy bench is the perfect choice for an entryway or your child’s bedroom. Includes a nesting storage box that can be used as a drawer for shoes and more.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Make it easy for your child to get ready.
Place a low bench or stool near the door to create a comfortable spot for your toddler to put on their shoes. Then store a pair or two of their favorite shoes on a tray or mat next to the bench.
Simple and efficient!
This washbasin is the perfect place to store self-care supplies like a water pitcher, toothbrush, comb, washcloth, or box of tissues.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Prioritize accessibility.
A child-sized washbasin can help your little one practice self-help skills, like hand-washing and toothbrushing, without needing a stool.
(It’s a great way to save water too!)
This food prep set includes a child-sized cutting board and three styles of wooden knives for kids. Great for practical life work!
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Invite your toddler to help out in the kitchen.
Simple cooking tasks, like scooping, pouring, stirring, and chopping are accessible and fun for little ones. Look for safe, child-sized kitchen utensils to help your toddler get started.
This sweet play kitchen easily doubles as a functional storage space for little ones. Use the shelves and pegs to organize your child’s dishes, cooking utensils, and more.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Create a self-help station.
Does your toddler have practical life tools they use every day? A wooden knife and cutting board, child-sized plates and utensils, a spray bottle and dish rag?
Help your child find what they need, when they need it, by storing frequently used materials together on a shelf.
This shatterproof wall mirror is a great choice for your child’s bedroom, bathroom, or self-help station. Features a light beech wood frame to beautifully complement your home.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Encourage self-care from an early age.
With guidance, your toddler can begin learning self-care skills, like combing their hair, washing their face, or blowing their nose.
(A wall-mounted mirror can help!)
This toddler-friendly clothing rack is just right for little ones. Includes a low shelf to conveniently store shoes, folded clothes, baskets, and more.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Offer choices.
Encouraging your toddler to make choices throughout the day helps build autonomy and confidence.
Here’s one idea: Use a low clothing rack to hang up a few outfits and invite your little one to choose what to wear!
This Montessori-style shelf features deep, open shelves to neatly store your toddler’s favorite toys. Available in multiple colors and sizes to effortlessly fit your space.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Store your child’s toys in an accessible way.
Using low, open shelves can help your child easily find (and reach) the board book or set of blocks they’re looking for. This is a great way to reduce frustration and encourage independent play.
This versatile table and chair set, available in 10 colors, is perfect for meals, playtime, and more. The table can even be used as a bench for your little one to enjoy as they grow.
Etsy: WoodJoyCollection
Tip: Set up functional, easy-to-use spaces.
A low table is a great place to color, do a puzzle, or have a snack. Consider using child-sized furniture to create cozy spots in your home for your toddler to enjoy, whether they’re eating, playing, or relaxing! 😊
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