Advice on Child-Rearing

1 — There is a proverb that says: "If you want to be obeyed, command what can be done." How fitting it would be for us to think of this when we want to ask something of our children. Is it reasonable to insist that they always be quiet and still?.. We must know that children have the right to shout, to play, and to run. Prepare a place for them where they can romp and shout in complete freedom. Let this place be a pretty garden, for example. And be assured that this will help you greatly when you ask them to be quiet once they sit down at the table or go to their beds to sleep.

2 — If you decide on a punishment for your child, never go back on it, however he pleads. Never listen to such phrases as "It's all right, just this once," or "I'll never do it again." No... do not be moved by his pleading and his abundant tears, for he will always remember this punishment that he deserved.

3 — Beware of scolding and rebuking the child at the table or in front of strangers; it is better that such rebuke be between you and him alone. And never punish your child while you are in a temper, lest you act rashly and impulsively. As for confronting the child with the facts, that is the ideal method in modern education. Ask him to be brave, so that he will not be afraid of the dentist, for example...

4 — Do not believe that firmness lessens a child's love for his family. Softness will not ward off from him the harms and troubles of life. And know that he will become a man, so do not stand between him and his destiny.

5 — When the child reaches the age of eight, let him go to school alone; indeed, entrust him also with buying a few necessities. He knows now how to cross the street from sidewalk to sidewalk without hesitating.