In America we tell our parents to bring their child home and put him or her in a crib; as they get older, children sleep in they own room not in Mom and Dad's room. What are we training them for? It's independence, because that's what being empowered is all about.

In this quote, Sheena Iyengar reflects on a fundamental aspect of parenting in America, where the practice of having children sleep in their own rooms is common. This act, seemingly simple, is part of a larger process of nurturing a child's independence. The idea of children sleeping away from their parents symbolizes the transition from dependence to self-sufficiency, which is a critical part of a child's emotional and psychological development.

Iyengar emphasizes that the reason behind such practices is to train children to become independent, as it is a necessary aspect of empowerment. The concept of empowerment in this context is about allowing children the space and tools to grow into confident and capable individuals who can navigate the world on their own. By gradually fostering autonomy, parents are essentially preparing their children for the future where they will need to rely on themselves, rather than their parents, to succeed and thrive.

The quote also points out a cultural aspect specific to America, where independence is highly valued as a personal and societal trait. This practice of separating children at a young age can be seen as a reflection of the broader societal belief that individuality and self-reliance are crucial traits for success. In this light, the quote calls attention to how even the smallest parenting decisions contribute to shaping a child's future abilities and mindset.

Ultimately, Sheena Iyengar’s words challenge us to consider how our cultural practices around child-rearing align with our beliefs about empowerment and independence, revealing the intricate connection between daily habits and long-term societal values.