We try as parents from the beginning to raise our little ones to be independent and confident. But, no matter how mature and independent your child may seem to be they need ongoing support and guidance to become an independent, responsible adult. 

Give your child as much freedom as they prove they deserve
Make it clear that you will give more freedom when they prove they can make good decisions. This can be adapted to suit any age really. For me, our eight-year-old would like to walk to the local shop. He knows he must prove he is responsible enough when crossing the road at all times before we will even consider it. For older teens coming home at an agreed time is a place to start thinking of maybe staying out a little later etc.

Encourage them to help out
Chores are an excellent way to give your child some responsibility. Again, this can be tailored to age. Age appropriately, chores outside of the home can also teach your child a lot about responsibility. Helping out in a local charity or a local shelter can not only help them learn to be responsible it will also teach them to be humble and kind. 

Most parents are so busy being a great parent and looking after their little ones they forget that sometimes the need to learn things for themselves. It is our job as parents to teach them life skills. Doing a wash, cooking a meal, doing the ironing or changing beds. Further, that managing money and time management are also excellent things to teach your children from any age. 

Teach them about consequences and follow through
An important lesson for a child of any age is about consequences. It is also why it is so important from early on to follow through on any ultimatum you may give your child. It teaches them that every action has a consequence, something they will learn more and more about as they become teenagers and then young adults. 

It's hard to watch your little ones grow up and realize they won’t be your babies forever. However, you’re doing your child a disservice if you don’t instil a sense of responsibility. In the long run they will thank you for helping them become responsible, independent adults.