And no I don’t mind at all getting advice. Part of the reason I started this blog was to hear thoughts and ideas on things like that from more experienced moms whose advice I value. When I’m close to her and it’s easy to reach what she wants I do (normally, but I’ll watch myself) just grab it and hand it to her without saying anything. It’s more when she’s sitting next to it and I’m across the room that I might say something. You’re right though. I’m definitely not worried about her suddenly becoming overly dependent (and even if she does, she’s a one year old), but I also don’t want to be so quick to jump up and try and do things for her that she never gets the chance to try on her own, if you know what I mean. But you made a really good point, that if she is clearly asking for help I’d like to model to her that I don’t mind helping her out.

Don’t worry too much about teaching her that she can do it on her own or being so vocal if you don’t want it to become a (light hearted) “can I make mommy do this” game. If I were you, I’d just pass her the thing she’s after with little thought or display if I was there and could reach it. It’s one of those things that I think people will say “if you get it for her all the time, you’ll always have to”, but I think if you just do it then they learn that no power struggle is needed, trust is gained that you’ll help her when she needs or wants you to and helping follows asking for help. Good lessons to be learnt by your modelling for the future and she’s in the position to respond to someone’s requests. She’ll want to get things on her own soon enough- especially once she masters this walking business!

I know you’re not worrying- just some thoughts and I hope you don’t mind…