“When you are eight years old, nothing is any of your business.”
(Lenny Bruce)

It is easy for parents to forget what it was like to be a kid. It’s easy to forget what it was like being so small, feeling as if no part of your life is up to you, and having to constantly play follow the leader.

Here’s a tip: the next time one of your children is battling you in a seemingly nonsensical way, (e.g. throwing a fit for no reason), try a little empathy:

“Wow, seems like you’re having a rough day. Is this one of those days where it’s just tough to be eight?”

She may not automatically respond in a way that you’d like, but she’ll definitely get the impression that you’re trying to understand. And that can sometimes make all of the difference.

Peace begins with pause,