Discussion Questions
Consider this matter-of-fact statement: “Sometimes [kids] can use their upstairs brain, and sometimes they can’t” (p. 44). Do your responses to children and other adults reveal that you do or that you don’t believe that to be true?
In your own words, describe the difference between an upstairs-brain tantrum and a downstairs-brain tantrum. What kinds of responses do the two different types of tantrums require?
Describe a time when you practiced the technique, “Connect and redirect.”
From this chapter, we learned about the way the upstairs brain becomes stronger as we learn to make choices and weigh pros and cons. What are some ways that you can play a part in encouraging kids to make choices?