Crying children
over dirty hands
tears dripping
into the mud puddle.
Crying children
over the snack table
saying I am full.
Crying children
on my shoulder
not wanting to share.
Crying children
in the sand box
running from the bugs.
Crying children
in the hallway
struggling with a snap.
Crying children
on the trampoline
leaping 30 feet high.
Crying children
looking for help.
I help them
but not
by cleaning
those muddy hands
not
by forcing
food down their throat.
I help them
but not
by taking
that toy away
and never
ever
with a shout.
I help them
but not
by moving
that bug
that creature away
and certainly
not ever
snapping
that snap.
I help those
crying children
by helping them
help their little selves.
Shaggers Picchu's Blog 
Yup. That’s how it should be. There’s no point in solving their problems for them, it’s like cutting their legs from under them, and we’re not helping them become fully functioning individuals in the future.
You are so right!
You are such an amazing teacher! I know exactly how you helped them. I’ve witnessed first-hand your loving, gentle way of showing them you care, but not by babying them, by empowering them to become independent little people. The world needs more people like you! 🙂