Keep this question on the tip of your tongue to use when you see your child struggling: “What do you need from me – to just listen, to give you space or to offer ideas?” Then honor their request.

Because summer is an ideal time to try new things, why not turn things upside down and reap a fresh perspective on your wonderful family life? These are some ideas to get you thinking.

Thank you for humbling me by picking up a wrench to build an engine when I felt more comfortable with you staying inside to play with hot wheels. Maybe in another few years I’ll finally get the hang of this parenting thing and stay out of your way while you soar past me.

Imagine the whole experience of learning from home as a game. It’s a learning quest with daily missions and the opportunity to earn points or unlock portals into more fun.

Set the contract and define your role as Socratic Guide. As a guide, give choices; don’t answer questions; give growth mindset praise instead of nagging; and be warm-hearted and tough-minded. You’ll soon find you like being Socratic so much it may just be your new modus operandi.