Should you let your child take care of you?

What if the most “helpful” child in the family is carrying a burden they were never meant to carry?We often celebrate children who are mature, thoughtful and no trouble at all. But sometimes I wonder what’s sitting underneath that.There’s a big difference between a child helping because they’re growing and a child helping because they’re protecting. One builds confidence. The other asks them to carry responsibilities that belong to the adults around them.In this week’s Parent Pause, I’m exploring that almost invisible line between contribution and parentification - and why a child saying, “Don’t worry, Mum, I’ll be good,” can sometimes break my heart.It’s a nuanced conversation about responsibility, care, and what children really need from us.Thank you for pausing with me. Take care. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kimmccabe.substack.com/subscribe