“I asked myself.” ❤️
You’ve probably seen this amazing video of little Willa, which has been shared far and wide on social media since its original posting in 2019.
I could write 10 different posts about the reasons I love it (#HomeyDepot), but today I want to spotlight what I consider it’s most important lesson of all: the emergence of AGENCY.
In the world of child development (and psychology more broadly), “agency” refers to control over one’s own actions. It’s the ability to make choices that reflect our personal needs and desires.
Agency is key to both children’s emerging independence and long term success.
And boy does Willa have it in spades.
Asked whom she asked permission to apply lipstick (yip-ick) in the bathroom, she explains with confidence that:
1The lipstick is hers,
2She asked herself, and
3That she likes the way it looks, thank you very much.
It’s not just that she’s made these choices on her own. It’s the way they fill her with pride.
She is her own person.
As a parent, you can support your child’s healthy agency from an early age by presenting reasonable choices and allowing them to select and act on their preferences. Sometimes this will also entail dealing with the natural consequences of our actions… which can be a critical lesson for children and adults alike.
Independent little Willa was originally shared to FB and IG by her father, PeterSowell.
#Jets end their 3-game loosing streak 💚🏈! I took a nap halfway through when they were loosing and woke up in the beginning of the 4th quarter to them winning. I had to rub my sleepy eyes, thought I was dreaming 💭 🤣
#FootballSunday
It’s been a while since a posted. Too many platforms between fb, insta, twitter. How does everyone manage them all? Fb I use for strictly family, friends, and coworkers. Instagram I just follow for gardening/food inspiration. Twitter I use to connect with people I’d never meet💚