I Broke Down . . .

After three years of head banging, several reports of teachers who find him to be longer lasting than the energizing bunny, and a gymnastic instructor's complaint that he can't be disciplined . . .
I bought this book:

*photo curteousy of Amazon.com

I feel a bit like a failure buying this book, but at the same time, reading it has really helped. I have only started it but have been able to put into practice the first few chapters of new tools.

The labels section really helped. Each day I try to see Jackson in a more positive light. He is not stubborn, but determined; not troublemaking, but curious and creative; not over emotional, but passionate . . . the list goes on.

In addition, I have tried harder at seeing things from his view. Instead of ripping him away from staring at the pebble on the ground because we are late, and then getting into a huge screaming match that makes us even more tardy . . . I now take a few moments to acknowledge how interesting the pebble is and go quickly on our way.

And do you know something surprising?? Life has become much more enriching! I never realized how many specks there are on pebbles. ;)

Do you know the most surprising part of this whole "Spirited Child" program? In the book there is a quiz on traits expressed by spirited children. There is also a quiz on traits expressed by spirited adults . . . and somehow, I scored higher. :0

That may come as no surprise to most of you, but it sure surprised me.

At any rate, if you find yourself at wits end with your incredibly energetic and "curious, creative, determined" child, you may enjoy reading this book. I know it has made a huge improvement in our communication, outlook, and has even improved behavior issues . . . on both sides.