To Encourage Autonomy

1. Let children make choices.
“Are you in a mood to go to painting class today or not?”

2. Show respect for a child’s struggle.
“Getting up early can be hard. If you come with me for a walk every morning you’ll feel better. Or have a cup of fresh juice as soon as you wake up. Or pour some water on your face.”

3. Don’t ask too many questions.
“Good morning.”

4. Don’t rush to answer questions.
“That’s a good question. What is your answer?”

5. Encourage children to use sources outside the home.
“Maybe Professor Shashi can offer an idea.”
“May be you can use the internet and search for 'Overcoming Morning Blues.'”

6. Don’t take away hope.
“So you want to experiment today. That would be fun.”

- from the book 'How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk' by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

--
I Am New,
Krish Murali Eswar.