encourage structure but independence

[zeonis]

"The transplanted midwesterners encouraged structure but independence for their kids, letting the young Larry go on holidays alone when he turned fifteen years old."

This is from " Trillions" by Robin Wigglesworth, p.206.

What is the meaning of "encourage structure but independence" in the above sentence?

 

[Rover_KE]

Please note that I've changed your thread title, which should have included some of the words or phrases you are asking about.