I think it is great that you’ve been walking your kids to their classrooms. Yes, I can see the arguments your friends make for helping them develop independence but there’s lots more to consider than the superficial ‘independence’ element.

One day I’ll have more time to write on this subject, but here’s a few thoughts that spring to mind.

Having mom or dad by their side while they walk into school in the morning can empower children with confidence, if you do it the right way. Kids will be embarrassed by parents who fuss so it would be a mistake to spit on a handkerchief and wipe their breakfast from their chin if front of other students, and you certainly don’t want to grab their face with both hands and plant a kiss on them in front of everyone … but if you can walk side-by-side having a reasonably interesting and grown-up conversation (perhaps about video game or fun plans for after school or the weekends), many kids will appreciate that.

For starters, it helps them get past the potential bullies who may congregate in the school yard looking for targets. As long as your kids don’t look like ‘mommy’s-boys’ (again I refer back to not spitting on the handkerchief, lol) you can help your children become less of a target for school bullies. It is much easier to pick on someone who doesn’t have parental presence at the school.

And, perhaps more importantly, I think it is great when children are used to having their parents around. If you retain a presence amongst their peers, it will make life easier when your children become teenagers. It is nice to have kids who are not embarrassed to be seen with you.

There’s lots of ways to help children become more independent. Walking kids to their classrooms won’t inhibit that.