Back-to-school season isn't just about new supplies and schedules – it's also about helping kids find their independence. According to Jessica Glass Kendorski, PhD, NCSP, BCBA-D, chair of the Department of School Psychology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), fostering independence gives children the tools to succeed now and well into the future.
“Encouraging independence gives kids the confidence to take on challenges, trust themselves and grow into capable adults,” Dr. Kendorski explains.
Independence helps children in multiple ways. Cognitively, it boosts focus, attention and problem-solving skills. Socially, it supports self-advocacy, assertive communication and the ability to build healthy friendships. Emotionally, it nurtures resilience, determination and pride in their own efforts.
Dr. Kendorski suggests parents promote independence in simple, everyday moments such as letting kids order their own meals at restaurants, or allowing room for them to problem solve for themselves before stepping in to resolve an issue.
Other examples of these teachable moments can include:
The hardest part may be for parents themselves. “It's natural to want to protect our kids,” Dr. Kendorski notes. “But by working through our own anxieties and letting go of control, we give them the necessary space they need to grow.”
Explore PCOM's degree options in school psychology including the Educational Specialist (EdS) and Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology (PsyD) programs.
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
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