The older your preschooler gets, the more she'll crave independence. The best way to nurture your preschooler's independence and self-confidence is to keep her life fairly structured. Give her choices, but not endless ones. Let her choose between two outfits to wear, for instance. When she asks to do something you know isn't a good idea, say no. Allowing options within a structured framework will help to boost her self-confidence and still let her know she's safe and secure.