On Communication...

...does my home provide an atmosphere in which opinions are freely shared and discussion is open? Do I listen patiently and attentively, giving gentle encouragement? From Hints on Child Training by Henry Clay Trumble (p.152):

A parent loses his opportunity for good to his child, if he fails to have sympathy with this child in that child's weakness and follies and misdoings. It is in every child's nature to long for sympathy at the point where he needs it most; and when he has done wrong, or has indulged evil thoughts, or is feeling the force of temptation, he is glad to turn to some one stronger and better than himself, and make confession of his faults and failures. If as he comes to his parents at such a time, he is met with manifest sympathy, he is drawn to his parents with new confidence and new trust.

My nature is such that I forget the tender ages and needs of my children, and for the sake of time and efficiency (my selfish motives) I really just need everyone to fall in line. Over the years, having been introduced to the writings of Mr. Trumble, I have so appreciated the reminder to have this tender sympathy for my children, and also to encourage them to have that tender sympathy for eachother.