What are Training Wheels?

Joaquin tells Ana the story of training wheels and how they always made him feel safe because the picked him up if he were to fall. Joaquin thinks that his sisters are like training wheels and Ana suggests that parents are like training wheels as well. They represent that support that Joaquin needs to feel safe going out into the world, knowing that if he falls or messes up, there is someone there to help guide and pick him up. Eventually, he is able to accept the love of his parents and heal his fears of being part of a family.