Child Quote by Thomas Gordon
““But what if your kid runs into the street in front of a car? Don't you have to use Method I?" ... If a child develops a habit of running into the street, a parent might first try to talk to the child about the dangers of cars, walk her around the edge of the yard, and tell her that anything beyond is not safe, show her a picture of a child hit by a car, build a fence around the yard, or watch her when she is playing in the front yard for a couple of days, reminding her each time she goes beyond the limits. Even if I took the punishment approach, I would never risk my child's life on the assumption that punishment alone would keep her from going into the street. I would want to employ more certain methods in any event.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Parent Effectiveness Training by Thomas Gordon, 1970
Parents must prioritize safety over punitive discipline, using reliable, proactive strategies to protect children from dangerous situations.
In simple terms: Safety first, not punishment.
Key Takeaway
Use proactive, certain safety measures.
Themes
parenting
child safety
discipline
risk management
Mood
concerned
determined
protective
Type
advice
practical
protective
When to use this quote
- teaching road safety
- installing fences
- supervision
- positive reinforcement
Key Concepts
behavioral psychology
protective parenting
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance guidance with autonomy?
- What proactive steps can you implement now?
A Different Perspective
Punishment alone cannot guarantee safety.
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