Change Quote by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka
““And while the temperamentally active child will always be an energetic individual, how that looks can change over time. With guidance from you, your spirited child can learn to channel his energy in positive ways. Instead of jumping on Grandma’s couch, he may be jumping on a diving board. The slow-to-accept-change child may always find shifting from one activity to another a bit disconcerting, but with your assistance and support he can learn to cope with change. With a little forewarning and preparation, initially on your part and ultimately on his, he can learn to: arise in the morning, arrive at the dinner table promptly, and get into and out of the car without a major meltdown. By adapting your parenting techniques to fit his temperament and his style, and teaching him the skills he needs, you help him to live cooperatively with others and to be all that he can be. To deny him his energy, his need for preparation before shifts, or any of his other temperamental traits is telling him “don’t be”—don’t be who you are.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Parenting Children with Different Temperaments, 2010
Children’s innate energy can be redirected positively through tailored guidance, helping them adapt to routines and change without losing their true selves.
In simple terms: Guide energetic kids to use their energy well.
Adapt parenting to child’s temperament.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily routines
- school transitions
- family activities
- sports participation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance structure with freedom for a spirited child?
- What routines help them feel secure during change?
Energy suppression can stifle individuality and cause resentment.