Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids

Yet emotional intelligence can’t be bought or rushed. It develops with the slow emergence of identity, and the gradual accumulation of life experiences.

The islands of consistency and security that rhythm builds throughout the day are like breaths. Such intervals allow a child’s brain to maintain balance, and to flow through its willing, thinking, and feeling centers.

Only with regularity can the joy of the unexpected and the luxury of the unplanned find a place in the home, too.

children given so very many choices learn to undervalue them all, and hold out—always—for whatever elusive thing isn’t offered.

By mediating input, we reduce stress, allowing the baby to interact freely with its world. Erik Erikson called this critical period that of “trust versus mistrust.” As we soothe the crying baby, as its hunger is met with food, trust wins over mistrust. Rudolf Steiner equated it with breath: the child “breathes” in the environment and “breathes” its

By simplifying their toys and environment, their schedules, and the sense of rhythm and regularity in the home, you allow them the grace to be a child.

For some boys and industrious types, work can serve as a pressure valve.

If the basket can be slid to the child, then he or she can use both hands to tidy up, staying right there, engaged, until the task is done.

Emotional intelligence includes a self-awareness that allows one to recognize and manage one’s moods, and to motivate oneself toward a goal. It involves feeling empathy toward others, being aware of their feelings, and being able to relate to others through interaction, conflict resolution, and negotiations.

I’ve seen how children can slide along on the spectrum from quirk to disorder when they experience high levels of stress.