How to help at the kitchen table without taking over — the ten-minute rule.

The ten-minute rule

Homework fights usually start at minute eleven. Set a timer, work together for ten minutes, then let them finish alone.

What to say instead of "it's easy"

• "Show me how you started"
• "What's the question really asking?"
• "Which part are you sure about?"

Your job isn't to know the answer. It's to keep them thinking.