There are some moments in parenting that stop you in your tracks — the quiet, ordinary moments that suddenly reveal how far your child has come.
This morning was one of those moments for me.
As I got into the car to drop Demi off at school, my husband texted, asking if I could take him. I didn’t think much of it — we got ready, got in the car, and drove to school as usual. But as we arrived, something hit me deeply.
For the first time, I was able to say goodbye from the car and watch Demi confidently walk into school all by himself.
No SERT waiting by the door.
No handholding.
No redirection to avoid distractions like the library.
Just a happy, confident boy walking to his locker — independently.
Last year, this wasn’t our story. Demi needed a SERT to meet him at the door and help guide him safely into the building. But today, I watched him whisk off like every other student, excited and assured. That moment was a testimony of intentional growth — a reflection of what it means to build independence one small milestone at a time.
💡 Here’s What Worked for Us
1️⃣ Start with a Vision
Before the progress, there was a decision. We told the school that one of Demi’s goals this year was independence. We wanted to create a plan that everyone could align with — home, school, and support team together.
2️⃣ Break the Goal into Small Steps
We didn’t jump straight to “walk into class alone.” We started small:
- Step 1: Enter with SERT supervision.
- Step 2: Transition to accessing his locker on his own.
- Step 3: Walk to class independently from the entrance.
- Step 4: Fade the SERT and extra support gradually.
Each stage built confidence and consistency until Demi no longer needed external prompts.
3️⃣ Work on Independence Across Environments
What we practiced at home — brushing, packing his bag, following instructions — carried into school. Independence is a mindset that grows stronger when practiced everywhere.
4️⃣ Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Every small step counts. The goal isn’t to rush the process but to make it sustainable. Some days will still need reminders, but progress is progress.
✨ The Heart Behind the Growth
Watching Demi’s transformation reminded me that growth often happens quietly — in daily practice, faithful consistency, and in trusting that God is working even when it feels slow.
Independence isn’t just a milestone; it’s a testimony.
A testimony that with love, structure, and faith, every child can flourish in their own way and time.
🙌🏽 Join Us This Month
If this story resonates with you, join us at our next Together We Can (TWC) session on January 12th at 3 PM.
We’ll be unpacking how to set independence goals for your child — both at home and at school — with practical steps, faith-filled encouragement, and a community that understands your journey.
📆 Save the Date
🕒 Saturday, January 12th – 3 PM
💬 Theme: Growing in Grace – Building Everyday Independence
Together, we’ll celebrate growth — one milestone at a time. 💙