"'Helicopter parenting' describes caregivers who are overly involved in their children’s choices and constantly hover over their activities. Recent research suggests that this parenting style may disrupt children’s emotional well-being and independence. In a study tracking 422 children over eight years, those exposed to helicopter parenting often became frustrated, irritated, or apathetic when asked to choose a toy on their own, mirroring the difficulty they experienced making decisions without parental input. While protecting children is vital, these findings highlight the importance of allowing them to make small choices and understand the reasoning behind actions, fostering healthier emotional and cognitive development." - Genesis Gonzalez, OCW