Time for a Gut Check, Mom: Are You Doing Too Much for Your Kids? You May Be Surprised... by Holly Brown MFT

I read an interesting tidbit recently that suggested one reason some babies and toddlers lag in their developmental milestones is because their parents are too attentive. Meaning, the kids never have to work for anything – they can just whine when a toy is out of reach and it appears.

I think I was guilty of this for a while. I wanted my daughter to know I was available to her, and so I'd jump for her every need. But there's a difference between meeting their physical and their emotional needs. When they can meet their own physical needs, they'll develop a sense of mastery.

So, notice what your child is capable of. Then push them just a little further. And help them notice this great thing they did, all on their own. Well-earned praise meets emotional needs better than (over) doing.