Building Independence Through the Let Grow Program
Ms. Kim

At its heart, Let Grow is about giving children appropriate freedom and responsibility so they

can grow into capable, resilient individuals.

This year, our Lower Elementary students are participating in the Let Grow Program, an initiative designed to strengthen independence, confidence, and real-world competence in children. These goals align closely with Montessori principles, which emphasize trust in the child’s capabilities and the importance of learning through meaningful experience.


At its heart, Let Grow is about giving children appropriate freedom and responsibility so they can grow into capable, resilient individuals.


The Origins of Let Grow


The Let Grow program was co-founded by Jonathan Haidt, social psychologist and author of The Anxious Generation, along with Lenore Skenazy, a journalist and longtime advocate for childhood independence. Both have spent years studying and writing about the sharp rise in anxiety, depression, and fragility among children and adolescents.


In The Anxious Generation, Haidt explains how modern childhood has shifted in two major ways:


  • Children have less freedom in the real world, with fewer opportunities to explore, solve problems, and take age-appropriate risks.
  • At the same time, they have more exposure to screens and constant adult oversight, limiting opportunities to build independence and self-trust.


Let Grow was created as a practical response to this imbalance. Rather than focusing on what children should avoid, the program focuses on what children need: trust, responsibility, and the chance to practice independence.


The Purpose of the Program


The purpose of Let Grow is simple but powerful. It encourages children to do things on their own that they are developmentally ready to handle, without unnecessary adult intervention.


For Lower Elementary students, this might include:


  • Completing a task independently at home
  • Navigating a small responsibility in their community
  • Solving a problem without immediate adult rescue
  • Practicing decision-making and follow-through


These experiences help children learn that they are capable. They build confidence not through praise alone, but through action.


Research shows that when children are allowed to take manageable risks and responsibility, they develop:


  • Stronger problem-solving skills
  • Increased resilience
  • Better emotional regulation
  • A deeper sense of self-efficacy


In other words, children learn not just what to do, but how to trust themselves.


Why Independence Matters


Independence is not about pushing children too far, too fast. It is about recognizing what they are already capable of and giving them space to practice those skills.


In a Montessori environment, independence is foundational. From choosing work to managing materials and caring for their environment, children are encouraged to act with purpose and autonomy. The Let Grow program extends this philosophy beyond the classroom and into everyday life.


Jonathan Haidt’s work highlights an important truth: when adults remove all discomfort, frustration, or risk from childhood, children miss critical opportunities to grow. They may appear safe in the short term, but they are less prepared to handle challenges later on.


Let Grow helps restore balance by allowing children to experience small struggles now, when the stakes are low and support is nearby.


How This Supports Montessori Values


Montessori education is built on trust in the child. Dr. Maria Montessori observed that children thrive when they are given responsibility and freedom within clear, thoughtful limits. Let Grow supports this belief by reinforcing that independence is learned through experience, not instruction alone.


By participating in this program, our Lower Elementary students are:



  • Practicing responsibility in real-world settings
  • Developing confidence through action
  • Learning that mistakes are part of growth
  • Strengthening their sense of agency


Looking Ahead


The Let Grow program is not about doing more or pushing harder. It is about stepping back in thoughtful ways so children can step forward.


As families and educators, our role is not to remove every obstacle, but to prepare children to meet them. By supporting independence now, we are helping children build the skills they will need for adolescence, adulthood, and life beyond the classroom.

Toilet Learning for Independence: A Montessori Perspective

By Ms. Jessica • March 3, 2026
Toilet learning is an important milestone in early childhood, and in Montessori education, it is approached with respect, patience, and trust in the child. Rather than something adults train, toilet learning is seen as a natural developmental process that unfolds when a child is ready. Following the Child Children develop at their own pace. From a Montessori perspective, readiness is more important than age. You may notice signs such as staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the bathroom, communicating bodily needs, or wanting to participate in dressing themselves. When we wait for these cues, children feel respected and capable—two key foundations for independence. Being able to feel the wetness from cloth diapers or underwear helps with body awareness. A Prepared Environment at Home and School Independence grows when children can do things for themselves. Simple environmental supports make a big difference: A child-sized toilet or potty A step stool for the toilet and sink Easy-to-remove clothing A place for clean clothes within the child’s reach When the environment is prepared, children can manage each step with confidence, building pride in their abilities. Respectful Language and Calm Support The way we talk about toilet learning matters. In Montessori, adults use calm, neutral language that helps children tune into their own bodies: “Your body is telling you it’s time to try.” “Accidents happen while we are learning.” “You have wet clothes, lets go change” There is no pressure, punishment, or reward. This allows children to focus on internal awareness rather than external approval. Toilet learning is just like other learning only it involves bodily functions. Accidents Are Part of Learning Accidents are a normal and expected part of the process. When handled calmly—“Your clothes are wet. Let’s change them”—children learn without shame. These moments provide valuable information and help children make connections for next time. Consistency and Patience Offering regular opportunities to use the toilet, such as after waking or before going outside, supports learning while still honoring the child’s choice. Progress may move forward and backward, especially during times of change. This is developmentally normal and met with reassurance and patience. Independence Is the Goal From a Montessori perspective, the goal of toilet learning is not speed or perfection, but independence. Each step a child takes toward caring for their own body strengthens confidence and self-trust. Home–School Partnership Toilet learning is most successful when home and school work together. Open communication allows us to support your child consistently and respectfully across environments. Sharing observations about your child’s readiness, routines, and any changes at home helps us respond thoughtfully at school. Likewise, we will keep families informed about progress and experiences in the classroom. When children experience the same calm, supportive approach in both settings, they feel secure and confident as they build independence.  By working together and honoring each child’s unique timeline, we can make toilet learning a positive and empowering experience—for both children and adults.

How to Involve Children in Holiday Traditions the Montessori Way (and Teach Gratitude)

By Katie Denmark • December 17, 2025
By involving children in holiday traditions the Montessori way, you’re not just creating festive memories - you’re fostering independence, gratitude, and a lifelong love of meaningful work.