Child Quote by Daniel J. Siegel
““A parent who recognizes an upstairs tantrum is left with one clear response: never negotiate with a terrorist. An upstairs tantrum calls for firm boundaries and a clear discussion about appropriate and inappropriate behavior.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Whole-Brain Child, Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson, 2011
Children’s extreme emotional outbursts require firm limits and calm discussion rather than compromise.
In simple terms: Set boundaries, then talk.
Establish limits, then explain.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parent‑child conflict
- school discipline
- family meetings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you stay calm while enforcing limits?
- What language helps a child understand expectations?
Negotiation may reinforce defiant behavior.