Reflection Prompts (Ask yourself…):

  • Do I automatically jump in to help, even when they could probably manage with time?

  • Does my child know how to put on a coat, open a lunchbox, wipe their own face or bottom?

  • Have I allowed them the frustration stage of learning a skill, or do I always skip to the rescue?

What you can do at home:

  • Start with the "I’ll help you start" method.
    Say: “I’ll help you with the first bit, but you do the rest.” Then slowly shift responsibility. 

  • Build in more time.
    Stop rushing them through tasks. If there’s no time to practise, there’s no time to master it. Add five minutes. Breathe.

  • Narrate your own effort.
     “I’m trying to open this jar… hmm, tricky… I’ll keep going…” Children need to see grown-ups persevere too, not just succeed instantly.

  • Let them fail safely.
    It’s okay if the coat’s inside out. Let them wear it that way. Natural consequences are powerful teachers - and usually harmless.

Try This Challenge

The “You Show Me” Game. Get your child to teach you how to do something they’re learning.

Reversing roles boosts confidence, reinforces the steps, and shows them they’re the expert now.