Sense of Agency
To create a sense of agency (PDF), children first need to identify with their family. These first relationships between family members build a sense of belonging. Your family contributes to making your child feel loved, secure and valued.
Your child will first learn to make choices with you and other family members. They will learn that these choices can have an impact on their family and others. Encourage your child to ask questions, express ideas, and make some decisions. Allow them the space to learn from good or bad choices.
Children enjoy showing how capable and competent they are. Help your child build on their strengths and abilities. Every child needs to feel that they belong, that they matter and that they add value to the world.
Visit Best Start- On Track Guide (PDF) to better understand your child's social development.
For more information about Sense of Agency visit About Kids Health: Self-Efficacy or Reaching IN...Reaching OUT (RIRO): Responsibility & Participation.
Do you have more questions about parenting?
- Speak with a Public Health Nurse. Call the Ottawa Public Health Info Centre at 613-PARENTS [613-727-3687] (TTY: 613-580-9656) or email Ottawa Public Health at ParentinginOttawa@ottawa.ca
- Connect with a Public Health Nurse and other parents on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page
- There are a variety of services to make it easier for your child to grow up healthy in Ottawa
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