Why Children Should Make Their Own Decisions and What They Learn from It

“But mom, I want to wear my rain boots!”

The sun is shining, it’s 24°C outside. And yet your child is standing in the hallway, determined to wear their green boots. Alright, you think. And you let them go with it.

What you’re doing in that moment is much bigger than it seems.
You’re giving your child space to experience themselves. Children want to have a say. Not to make everyday life harder (even if it feels like that sometimes), but because they’re beginning to realize:
I am someone. I can make choices.

These small decisions, the shirt, the lunchbox, the order of brushing teeth help children feel seen and taken seriously.

And yes, sometimes that means a long-sleeved shirt on a 30°C day.
Or a “I don’t want pasta today,” even though it was their favorite food yesterday. But those are the moments that build them up.

Making decisions means learning responsibility.

When children are allowed to make their own small choices, they also learn to deal with the consequences. Maybe they’ll realize after five minutes in rain boots that sandals would’ve been better. Or maybe they won’t and happily stomp through the day. Both are okay.

Even choosing a backpack can be one of those important decisions.
Which one is mine? The one with the owl? Or do I prefer the fox?

Kids love picking out their own backpack — and even more, packing it themselves: A water bottle, a favorite stuffed animal, a tiny stone they found on yesterday’s walk.

That’s how a kids’ backpack becomes a daily companion that’s not just practical, but also a symbol of growing independence.

A little “This is me” they can carry on their back.

👉 You can find our vegan, recycled kids’ backpacks at Little Who.

Lovingly designed, thoughtfully made. For you and your little ones, to love, to carry, and for self-decision. 🧡✨