Yep, sometimes they ask but it's more like; "let's do this mum... together... like playing". Often when they ask it has a slightly different meaning to when two adults ask each other for help. Your DD is probably asking in the same context of show me how to paint... more open ended... not too exact. IYKWIM? And with your worry about her struggling at school: the best insurance you have against that is to develop her natural curiosity by helping her to play in a way that reveals new ideas. Grab a copy of the book Rory recommended and I think you will be really inspired ETA: I second what Saram said about kids often giving their parents a harder time than their teachers... don't fret about it too much