Olga T. (SEE) - Independence

A child like this doesn't need to be “raised” in the usual sense. You need to protect them from dangers — so they don’t fall somewhere or go off with some stranger. Give them the opportunity to determine their own path in life. What plans, what tasks, what goals — let them shape that themselves.

<...> You absolutely need to develop independence and responsibility in this child.

When I was five, I had to walk three bus stops to get a blood test. I said, “Mom, come with me.” Mom said, “Go by yourself.” I cried, I was scared — I was five, and everyone else was there with their moms. “Go alone, I don’t have time. I have work.” When I was six or seven, I took the bus by myself to gymnastics.

I grew up to be such an independent person that I traveled abroad three times on vacation alone. I’m comfortable with that.

My mom definitely nurtured independence in me. I also did my homework on my own.