The Art of Letting Go: Supporting Your Child’s Growing Independence
Parenting often feels like walking a tightrope. We want our kids to be independent thinkers, yet watching them assert that independence can feel like a gut punch—especially when it comes in the form of “I don’t want to do this anymore.”
This is the tricky territory of quitting. Whether it’s piano lessons, soccer practice, or a beloved extracurricular, every parent faces the moment when their child wants to walk away. The question is: Do we let them?
The Lessons We’ve Learned About Quitting
Listening Matters:
When our preschooler announced she was “done” with dance class, our first instinct was to say, “But you love it! Don’t give up!” But after a little digging, we discovered she wasn’t enjoying the structure of the class anymore—she wanted more free movement. Listening showed us that quitting wasn’t about giving up; it was about finding joy.Quitting Is a Skill, Too:
There’s value in teaching kids how to assess when something no longer serves them. That doesn’t mean walking away at the first sign of frustration. Instead, it means reflecting on what they’ve learned and deciding how to move forward.The Right Kind of “Follow-Through”:
If quitting is inevitable, teach your child to finish strong. Whether it’s attending the final practice or thanking their teacher, these small acts build character.
When to Step In (and When to Step Back)
There are times when perseverance is the lesson, not the activity itself. But as parents, we need to recognize when pushing them through is more about our expectations than their needs. Supporting independence isn’t always easy, but it’s an investment in raising thoughtful, self-aware humans.
How to Pick the Right Preschool for Your Child: A Practical Guide
Choosing the right preschool can feel overwhelming. Parents often worry about making the “perfect” choice. Is this the place where my child will thrive? Will they be happy here? And, let’s be honest, will this decision haunt me in five years? No pressure, right? In this guide, we’ll help parents looking at the San Francisco Bay Area preschools find the best fit for their child’s needs and learning style.
The good news? The process doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you're diving into research for the first time or re-evaluating options, the key is to focus on what truly matters for your child and family.
What Truly Matters When Choosing a Preschool?
Philosophy That Fits Your Family:
Do you prefer a play-based curriculum that fosters creativity, or are you leaning toward a more structured, academic approach? Understanding your child’s personality can guide this choice. For example, if your child thrives in free play and exploration, a play-based model might be the ideal fit.Strong Community:
A good preschool isn’t just about your child—it’s about the parents too. Ask yourself: Does this school feel like a place where I could chat with other parents or ask for advice? Schools that foster a sense of connection often lead to stronger support systems for both parents and kids.Teachers Who “Get” Kids:
Teachers set the tone for the preschool experience. Look for educators who are patient, kind, and skilled at engaging children in meaningful activities. During a tour, watch how teachers interact with kids. Are they down on the floor, making eye contact, and showing genuine enthusiasm?
Key Questions to Ask During a Tour
Don’t be afraid to dig deep during your preschool tours. Here are a few questions that can provide insight:
How do you handle separation anxiety during the first few weeks?
What is the balance between free play and structured activities?
How do teachers handle conflicts between children?
Tours aren’t just about the school selling itself to you—it’s also about you evaluating whether this is a place where your family will feel at home.
The Bottom Line
The perfect preschool doesn’t exist, but the right one for your family absolutely does. Focus on what matters most: an environment that nurtures your child’s curiosity, a community that supports you as a parent, and teachers who truly care. The rest will fall into place.
If this article resonates with you, come check out our preschool Sequoia Parents Nursery School. We offer programs for children starting at 1 year old and are located in San Carlos, drawing families from across Silicon Valley, including Belmont, Redwood City, and San Mateo. It’s a great way to be part of a supportive, hands-on community while giving your child a fun, enriching start.