Infants whose parents respond when they cry for a bottle, a dry diaper, another blanket or to be held and rocked learn that they can trust their parents to take care of them. This helps the baby to feel secure. Children feel secure when they know what to expect. That's why it's important to be consistent with our rules. When children know the rules, they feel more sure of themselves and how we expect them to behave.
Routines help children feel secure.
When children have a routine to follow before going to bed or when getting up to go to school or play, they can learn to do many of the things for themselves, instead of having to be reminded. This begins to develop independence. Children who feel secure are less afraid of trying new things than children who are insecure. Children who feel secure won't be as afraid when their parents must be away from them. They know that their parents will return Another way we can help to develop independence is to give children choices.