How do I get my apple se to count my steps as activity toward closing my activity ring

To earn 1 minute of exercise credit(green ring);

Travel a full minute at a brisk walking pace(3.3 mph approx) or above.

Raise your heart rate to approx 75% of your maximum.

When you're at around or above this heart rate and speed for the entire

minute you'll receive 1 exercise minute credit.

If you pause or slow down during this minute then you won't get any

exercise credit for that minute.

She probably meets the above criteria or else she is using the "Other" workout type in the workout app.