Practice being. Practice waiting. Practice watching.
Let them experience the world with you nearby keeping them safe and supported.
which leads to SandraDodd.com/peace/newview
photo by Sandra Dodd
When kids get sneaky, what might that signal to a parent?Joyce responded:
Don't see his behavior through adult eyes. That view casts children as the bad guys when they disobey what adults want them to do. See the behavior for what it is. He has a need. He sees you as an obstacle, as someone who not only won't help him meet his need but will probably stop him. So he's avoiding the obstacle to try to meet the need himself.
It's the essence of every story: The protagonist has a need. He finds ways around what stands between him and what he needs.
Rather than being an obstacle, be his partner in meeting his needs. Be the one keeping an eye on the needs of those around him as you find respectful, safe, doable ways for him to meet his needs. Be the one manipulating the environment so he's not in a situation he can't handle yet.—Joyce Fetteroll
SandraDodd.com/needs
Learning requires a sense of safety.
Fear blocks learning. Shame and embarrassment, stress and anxiety—these block learning.
So don't pressure, coerce or confuse your children.
Smile and laugh and provide.
Keep them safe and fed and warm and they will grow all sorts of ways.