Able Quote by Selma Fraiberg
“We find that the child who does not yet have language at his command, the child under two and a half, will be able to cooperate with our education if we go easy on the "blocking" techniques, the outright prohibitions, the "no's" and go heavy on "substitution" techniques, that is, the redirection or certain impulses and the offering of substitute satisfactions.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Emotional Development of the Young Child, 1975
Gentle redirection and offering alternatives supports early language development better than strict prohibitions.
In simple terms: Use substitution, not bans, to guide young children.
Key Takeaway
Guide with alternatives, not denial.
Themes
parenting
language development
early childhood
Mood
caring
practical
Type
educational
advice
When to use this quote
- preschool classrooms
- home parenting
- early intervention programs
Key Concepts
redirection
substitution
impulse control
Questions to Reflect On
- When should limits replace substitution?
- How to balance freedom and safety?
A Different Perspective
Some children may need clear limits for safety.
