- Wait. Let them sit with it for a real try.
- Ask. “What kind of problem is this?” “What did you try?”
- Review why after they answer — especially shapes.
- Do not give the method first.
Rules we actually keep
- One free reasoning day every week for each child.
- If motivation drops, cut volume by 20% for two weeks.
- Watch the weakest battery, not a sibling league table.
- The system may suggest a level; the parent confirms before any formal promotion.
- Sunday evening review (move the slot if life needs it). Never compare the two children on one score row.
125+ SAS is an instrument. The child feeling is still “I can figure this out.”