If you have an independent child, you know how frustrating it can be to try and carry, hold, or help your baby with anything. Even if he can’t yet do it himself, he will try and forcefully shun any and all assistance. Handling an independent child is tricky at times, but you can make it easier on yourself:

Use the Power of the Distraction
If you’re trying to get a child dressed and he wants very much to climb off the bed, use distraction. Keep a favorite toy for just this occasion so that he has something else to focus on. Free him from the confinement as quickly as possible and keep the toy for next time – that will help it stay special.

Bribery
Once your child is old enough to understand, there is nothing more powerful than a good bribe (or threat, but we like to be positive.) If he wants to go for a ride in the car, he has to hold still and get his shoes on. If he wants to stay up and watch a show, he has to let you help him get dressed, etc…

Patience
If all else fails, add time to your day to deal with independent spurts. It might take an extra ten or fifteen minutes to get out the door, but you’ll go out with a satisfied, albeit unusually dressed, child.