You're Not the Boss of Me by Betsy Brown Braun (2010) Harper Collins Publishers is another delightful yet practical guide book for developing independence and responsibility in children.  It is filled with tips such as lists of age appropriate responsibilities for two-and-a-half-year-olds through eight-year-olds.  She gives and abundance of adult scripts for many of her tips.  For instance, I love her response to a child that complains about being bored.  " That's great.  I know you are going toi figure out something really interesting to do."

Braun declares, "There is no such thing as being bored at home.  Children who are bored are trying to engage you."  

My teaching partner, Diana Carr's response to a child's declaration of boredom was, "If you are bored, your brain is taking a nap.  Time to wake it up and start thinking, even if it's to start daydreaming."

I know every parent and/or educator has some stories about building independence and responsibility in children.  I would love for you to add your insights about this important subject.