When we invite kids to be part of the process—when we shift from controlling to collaborating, we give them a sense of belonging and significance. These are the two core needs Positive Discipline reminds us to meet if we want to see lasting behavior change.

When a child is dysregulated—angry, anxious, overwhelmed—they’re not choosing to ignore you. Their brain is choosing survival. And in that state, learning is biologically impossible.

SEL isn’t one more thing on your plate. It is the plate. It’s not a new task. It’s how you do everything else more intentionally.