If you’re following along each day, recall that yesterday’s practice was to pause before stepping in. Today, let’s take the next step: when help is needed, offer it in a way that keeps your child connected to the problem instead of handing the problem over to you. The simplest way to do that is to give support a shape. Instead of moving straight into giving advice, try asking a question that helps your child choose what kind of support would actually help. The wording can change by age, but the idea stays the same: I am available, and this is still yours. For younger children, that might mean offering comfort, a small clue, or company while they try again. For older kids and teens, it may mean asking whether they want to talk it through, hear an idea, or have a little space before deciding what to do next. The goal is not to make children solve everything independently. It is to avoid turning every moment of frustration into an adult-led repair job. Let’s break it down further by age: For ages 3–6 When a young child is stuck, start with connection before problem-solving. If they are upset because a tower fell, a button will not cooperate, or a game piece is not doing what they want, come close and name what you see. Then offer one small choice. You might say, “That was frustrating. Do you want me to sit with you while you try again, or would you like one little idea?” If they ask for an idea, keep it tiny. Instead of rebuilding the whole tower, you might point to the wider blocks at the bottom. Instead of finishing the puzzle, you might turn one piece slightly and let them place it. For ages 7–12 At this age, children often want help and independence at the same time. If they are frustrated by a game, a craft, a recipe, or a building project, try giving them a simple “help menu.” You might ask, “Would you like a hint, a second set of eyes, or a minute to think?” A hint gives them one clue. A second set of eyes means you look with them and notice something aloud without taking over. A minute to think gives them permission to stay with the problem without pressure. Each option communicates that help is available, but the next move still belongs to them.

Borrowing this from my mentor @Katya McEwen who is also hosting a summit this week. If you’re interested in her summit I’m sure she’d be happy to share details. Now, let’s have some fun! Your weekend in GIFs only... Tell us about your weekend in GIFs only👇🏼 - Step One - post your day or weekend in GIFs (max 4) - Step Two - Try and guess what at least 2 other members are doing - Step Three (bonus) - confirm if guesses or correct or if we should try again Here are mine. I’m in a guessing mood so I’ve tagged several of you. If I missed anyone let me know. @Allan Webster @Brenda Chilstrom @Janell Bitton @Anna Murrietta @Anna Brown @Catherine McDowell @Celia Kibler @Charlie Svensson @Daniel Cavaretta @Dannielle McAuliffe @Dee Gosrani @Des Cooke @Evelene Sterling @Elizabeth Houston @Betty Jo Winters @Michelle Fuentes @Gus Gray @Amy Grantham @Karen Gibson @Heather Wilson @Jacqueline Hutchinson @Jay Dee Archer @Kristy Allison @Lisa Kilby @Lisa Vanderveen @Wendy Lee-Chu @Mayelice Castro @Maryna Tempalova @Max Orlewicz @Natasha Bryant @Nakita Fele @Sharon Otaguro @Paisley Kiddie @Paul Wren @Ruben Plasmeijer @Roslyn Hill @Rene Kerkdyk @Ramona Zihlke @Sandie Slowey @Sarah Cooper @Sasha Woodall @Samuel Wendland @Tim Tindle @Anzumana Taal @Yu-Tzu Huang @Jen Staniforth

i prompted Chat to give me a caricature of me and this is what it came up with. Thought it was neat

E-book Called 6 black holes of childhood, let me know if you are interested I will Send it to you in DM. i only ask for a review of the work in exchange for the Book itself. TIA

im curious, i think this is a powerful way to be real with your kids. show them how to be a good humans by apologizing when you get it wrong. Do you think this is a problem? why or why not?