Mindfulness and Purpose in Early Childhood Education

Independence refers to the extent to which individuals are seen as separate, autonomous beings who can direct their own lives with minimal reliance on others. Independence is emphasized in individualistic cultures like those in Western Europe and North America. Children are encouraged from a young age to be self-reliant, assert their needs/wants, explore freely, and develop a sense of self apart from the family. Independence is seen as preparing children to be self-directed adults who can thrive on their own. Parents promote independence by giving children choices, fostering creativity, allowing freedom to follow interests, praising accomplishments, and permitting exploration within limits. In contrast, interdependence refers to the degree to which people are considered inherently connected to family and society. Interdependence is stressed in collectivist cultures across much of Asia, Africa, and South America. Children are...