Doing for vs. doing with

Coaches often remind their players that there’s no “I” in “team.” Similarly, at home you’ve got to be your child’s teammate, not ball hog. If the goal is to create independent and self-confident students, stop doing for your child and start doing with your child. Sometimes we do for our children to avoid an argument, to get it done more quickly, or maybe just to get it done at all. While it solves the problem in the moment (and keeps the peace), it doesn’t help your child in the long run. Whatever it is you’re doing for your child, try doing it with them, instead. It’s a little more work at the start, but your child will learn by doing and gain more independence in the process.

Instead of getting them set up to get started on their homework, create a Ready to Learn Checklist together.
Instead of going online and making their homework agenda for them, generate a homework plan and agenda together.
Instead of writing to your child’s teacher, write and send an email to the teacher from both of you.