Before you unlock the door and wave goodbye, let’s run through a simple checklist. Can your child follow rules without a meltdown? Can they handle a minor emergency, like a spilled drink or a lost key? These aren’t boring tests—they’re superpowers in training.
Start small: a 30-minute test run while you pop to the corner store. Gradual independence is like a video game level-up—each win builds confidence. And don’t forget to celebrate the little victories with a high-five or a pizza night.
