Emma huffed, staring at her sneakers.

“Mom, I can’t do it!” Olivia knelt beside her. “OK, Emma, let’s do it together. 

First, pull the tongue up.” Emma tugged at the fabric tongue. “Like this?” 

“Perfect! Now slide your foot in, slowly.” 

Step by step, Olivia guided her through laces, loops, and bows. When the first shoe was done, Emma’s grin stretched wide. She grabbed the second shoe.

 “I can do this one myself!” And she did—slowly but surely. By the next week, Emma was slipping into her sneakers without a second thought, her confidence tied up with every bow.