take someone or something in hand
take (someone or something) in hand
To take control of someone or something, especially with the aim of correcting or improving its or their progress or development. Once the new CEO took the company in hand, he was able to turn it around from posting annual losses to being one of the most profitable companies in the country. The tutor saw a lot of potential in the student, so he took her in hand and began helping her understand her coursework.