Sorry, folks, I’m with the OP.
When our kids come to us with questions, I see no problem in trying to help them. Suggesting a topic for an essay is no different coming from a parent than it would be coming from a guidance counselor, a tutor, or an English teacher. In fact, it makes so much more sense, since we know the lives our kids have led.
My son’s essay was the result of his then 12 year old sister chiming in with “Why don’t you write about the time…” at the dinner table, as we were discussing options.
I’m not confident that this particular essay topic is the best choice, but I think that’s why the OP posted in the first place-- to get feedback on the essay topic. She said her daughter is “stuck” and she’s trying to suggest topics that would be a good choice. Nowhere did I read any implication that she intends to write the essay or control anything.