Buzz
1. Eating Independence
Eating independence is a skill parents should instill in children early on. From 6 months, children can bring food to their mouths; from 9 months, they can use a spoon to scoop food, and by 1 year, they can use chopsticks. Though initially clumsy, parents should be patient and provide opportunities for practice. Let children choose suitable foods, holding or using a spoon, reducing picky eating habits.
In modern life, teaching eating independence is essential. Parents should create conditions and gradually train children in small daily tasks, promoting development and confidence.
In modern life, teaching eating independence is essential. Parents should create conditions and gradually train children in small daily tasks, promoting development and confidence.
2. Changing Clothes Skills
Although changing clothes may seem challenging initially, it involves simple steps. Parents guide the child through each step patiently, and soon the child can do it independently.
For example, parents can prepare a piece of clothing for the child and guide them to place it on a table. Instruct the child to take the left sleeve with the right hand and thread the right hand into the left sleeve. Repeat with the other hand, and finally, stand up and button up from bottom to top. Regular practice encourages the child to quickly learn and master this essential skill.
4. Handwashing Skills
The hands are a breeding ground for more bacteria than any other part of the body. Therefore, regular handwashing with soap and proper technique, following health department guidelines, plays a crucial role in maintaining hygiene. This habit helps prevent the spread of germs and is especially necessary when children often use dirty hands to handle food without much awareness of the need to wash their hands beforehand.
The first step before teaching children handwashing skills is to explain to them that handwashing not only keeps their hands clean but also eliminates many disease-causing bacteria, promoting better health. Then, teach children how to wash their hands, with parents being present in the initial days to ensure the child follows each step correctly:
- Rub the palms of both hands together, including the fingertips and between the fingers.
- Wet both palms, apply soap, and rub it onto both palms.
- Rinse hands thoroughly with water and dry them.
5. Folding Clothes Skills
At the preschool age, children learn rapidly and are often curious about everything around them. They have a desire to express themselves and imitate adults. At each age, children will acquire different skills progressively, from easy to challenging. The skill of folding clothes not only helps children in self-care but also fosters the development of other skills such as concentration, perseverance, and confidence. Additionally, learning how to fold clothes helps children take better care of their clothing.
When teaching children how to fold their clothes, parents should first educate them about the different parts of the clothing, such as sleeves, body, collar, and front/back sides. Next, parents should guide the child step by step on how to fold clothes, engaging in the practice together. For instance, when teaching a child to fold pants, parents can prepare a flat surface, then instruct the child to lay the pants on the surface. The first step is to demonstrate folding the pants in half horizontally, followed by folding them again vertically to complete the process.
