In some behavior programs, there’s a concept called “prompt fading” —
It’s when adults slowly pull back support so a person “learns” to do things on their own.
But here’s the thing 👇
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🚨 For many of the kids I work with, this feels like abandonment.
They can feel when support is being pulled — but not why or when.
It’s not empowering. It’s confusing and often scary.
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💔 I’ve seen this lead to more anxiety, not less.
Because when people don’t feel safe,
they don’t feel capable either.
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It’s like learning to ride a bike…
But instead of joy when someone lets go —
It’s panic: “Where did they go?”
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Here’s how I do it differently:
✨ I’m honest.
✨ I tell them when I’ll be stepping back.
✨ I let them know where I’ll be if they need me.
That way, when they look up —
they’re not afraid.
They know they’re not alone.
They know they’re ready.
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🌱 Trust is not built by disappearing.
It’s built by showing up and being clear.
That’s real support.