In the last episode, we learned how authority and docility are natural, necessary, and fundamental for our homes. But in her fourth principle, Mason introduces a limitation to these two things: the respect due to the child’s will.

(Okay, so technically she says ‘personality,’ but I’m here to translate that Victorian English for you, and she’s definitely not talking about your kid’s Enneagram type.)

We want children with strong wills who choose what’s good because it’s the right thing to do. But there are just so many ways to get the right behavior with the wrong heart motivator, and that’s what we’re discussing today.

Just remember: what you motivate a child with is what you motivate them towards. And anything other than “For it is right,” is wrong.

----------

You can find the full episode notes here. 

---------

Join the 400+ mother-teachers in Common House (It’s like a Patreon, but better.) where we think deeply and learn together through full courses, bonus minisodes, monthly Q+A video calls, resources, and more!