When caring adults make space for their child’s choices and interests within daily routines, children begin to take control of their own positive choices and behaviours. Allow your child to choose their clothes each morning while getting dressed or allow your child to choose their cup or plate at mealtime. When caring adults allow children to choose the book during story time (based on their own interests or previous experiences), children are much better able to follow along and maintain attention while reading. When caring adults accept children’s feeling without minimizing them or making fun, children learn to trust their instincts and they can learn to manage their emotions which aids in relationship building. Try to help them label their feelings. (You look frustrated, is that right?) Labeling feelings is the first step in understanding and managing emotions.