QuikTips by Subject:The Think Space
The Think Space is a plan to help children take responsibility for their own behavioral choices while offering adults a safe and responsible way to remove themselves from the emotional loop of misbehavior. QuikTips Bundles
QuikTips is a series of short, practical articles that feature easy-to-use tools for low-stress child management. Bundled in small packets, and arranged by topic for easy reference. Main Menu
Everything you say to a child either builds him up or tears him down. |
What are QuikTips?QuikTips is a series of short, practical articles, written by Calvin and Carolyn Richert, that feature easy-to-use tools for low-stress child management. All techniques presented meet strict scientific and ethical guidelines and have been carefully "road-tested" for effectiveness in everyday use. Every method is thoroughly positive and, when used as intended, can help children develop skills of self-management, confidence, empathy and the many other positive character qualities needed in becoming well-adjusted, productive adults. Also available for purchase: QuikTips Bundles are pre-printed small packets, arranged by topic for easy reference. Teaching Virtue
“Good morning, Calvin.” It was three-year-old Matthew coming into my office to greet me. “Well, good morning, Matthew,” I countered. “How are you doing today?” “Just great, thank you. And how are you doing?” 
His quick, unassuming response nearly knocked me off my chair because no child his age had ever greeted or answered me with such maturity. How did he learn such courtesy? Later that day, I learned that his parents use that and other courtesies at home as normal ‘M.O.’. So, when similar situations present themselves, he is ready with appropriate answers…and questions.
Tabletime Manners:“That’s yucky!” | “Can I have more potatoes?” | “Can I go now?”
Do these outbursts sound familiar? Table time can be a real family circus. From kids demanding what they want to starting and leaving when they choose, disorder and chaos are common when it comes to busy families at meal times. But it doesn’t have to be that way – and shouldn’t be. Here’s why.
Elevating December 26!“So, what did you get for Christmas?” you ask your little neighbor, Timmy, the day after.
But wait! Is that what you really want to emphasize about a magical Christmas season? Let’s think about it. Where did the idea of giving gifts as part of Christmas get started? Most people quickly remember that ‘the wise men’ who traveled far to see the newborn child in Israel so long ago, came bringing gifts in honor of his birth.
When ‘…be good’ works in reverse!“Now guys, what do we expect from you when you are guests at the high school?”
The answer – “To be good”— set off a light in my head that forever changed my thoughts about ‘being good’. Let me explain.
“Who were you mostly thinking about…?”“That’s mine!” “No! It’s mine!” “I had it first!”
The sound of conflict quickly launches mother into action before someone gets hurt…or worse!
“What’s better than a compliment?”“What a nice picture, Joey!”
You compliment Joey’s ‘artistry’, even though it’s just a maze of scribbles! You want him to improve his drawing, but will a compliment help?
“Egocentricity as an asset?”This is the notice box.
Kids can be absolutely exasperating to adults. Sometimes it seems they are so self-centered that they forget anyone else even exists! However, such egocentricity was given to them in the first place for very good reasons, like their very survival.
“English grammar as a cure?”“Daddy, Me and Tara want to go with you to the gas station!”
Just a minute, Dad! Before you answer that request…” “Did you notice that your daughter mentioned herself first? Are you going to let her get away with that?” |
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