Ten Ways You Can Teach Your Children to Think For Themselves

by Esme Addison

I recently wrote an article on why parents should teach their children and teens how to think for themselves versus what to think. I think one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the ability to think for themselves. This skill is something my parents taught me and my siblings, and I’ve come to realized this is no longer a common sense skill. There are many adults let along children and teens that do not have the ability to think for themselves.

And with the abundance of information available through the internet, tv and film and social media, it’s more important than ever that we teach our children how to think independently of media and sometimes peer influence.

And this doesn’t mean we should abandon guidance or support but rather that we can foster an environment where independent thinking thrives.

Five Reasons Meditation For Teenagers Is A Good Idea

Here’s ten ways you can teach your children to think for themselves

1. Encourage Curiosity

Start by nurturing their natural curiosity. When your child asks questions, don’t just provide answers—encourage them to explore further. Instead of giving a direct response, guide them to resources or suggest ways they can find out more on their own. This practice helps them learn how to seek out and evaluate information, fostering a habit of inquiry.

2. Promote Critical Thinking

Teach your children how to analyze and evaluate information critically. When discussing news stories, current events, or even school topics, ask them to consider different perspectives. Encourage them to question the validity of the information and to weigh evidence before forming an opinion. This helps them understand that not all information is created equal and that critical thinking is a valuable skill.

3. Model Independent Thinking

Children learn a lot by observation. Demonstrate how you make decisions and solve problems. Share your thought process, explain how you weigh pros and cons, and show them how you arrive at your conclusions. By seeing you engage in independent thinking, they’ll understand how to apply similar methods to their own lives.

4. Foster Problem-Solving Skills

Give your children opportunities to solve problems on their own. Whether it’s choosing what to wear or tackling a homework assignment, let them make decisions and learn from the outcomes. Avoid stepping in to solve problems for them; instead, offer support and guidance as they navigate their challenges. This builds their confidence in their ability to think and act independently.

5. Encourage Open Dialogue

Create an environment where open dialogue is encouraged. Let your children express their thoughts and opinions without fear of criticism. Engage in discussions that explore various viewpoints and foster respectful debate. This helps them learn to articulate their ideas and understand that it’s okay to disagree or change their minds.

6. Teach Decision-Making

Involve your children in family decisions and let them experience the decision-making process. Whether it’s planning a family trip or deciding on a weekend activity, give them a role in the process. Explain how you make decisions and encourage them to consider the consequences of different choices. This hands-on experience teaches them how to weigh options and make informed decisions.

7. Support Their Interests

Support your children’s interests and passions, even if they differ from your own. Allow them to pursue activities and hobbies they’re passionate about and encourage them to set their own goals. By doing so, you help them develop a sense of autonomy and confidence in their abilities.

8. Use Real-World Examples

Incorporate real-world examples into your discussions. Discuss historical events, business decisions, or scientific discoveries and analyze them together. Explore the reasons behind decisions made and the outcomes that followed. This approach helps children understand the practical application of independent thinking in various contexts.

9. Encourage Self-Reflection

Teach your children the value of self-reflection. After making decisions or experiencing outcomes, encourage them to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. This practice helps them learn from their experiences and continuously develop their critical thinking skills.

10. Provide a Safe Space for Failure

Let your children experience failure and learn from it. Acknowledge that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growing. Provide support and encouragement as they work through challenges, and help them understand that failure is an opportunity for learning rather than a setback.

By implementing these strategies, you’re not just teaching your children how to think for themselves; you’re also equipping them with the tools to navigate the world with confidence and resilience. Fostering independent thinking is a journey, and each step you take helps build a foundation for your child’s future success and self-reliance.