Research has suggested that a building block for healthy development is a child’s ability to recognize the “You-I” distinction. I am Me and You are You. You might have different feelings than Me. You might think differently than Me. I might be interested in something different than You and I might feel differently than You. Developing this important social skill, begins in infancy and continues throughout childhood. The basic building block for developing the skill is parental empathy. When a parent acknowledges a child’s thoughts, and feelings it helps the child draw the distinction between self and others. Unfortunately, many times in disciplinary situations, because of the intensity of the moment, or the necessity to deal with the situation quickly, acknowledging a child’s feelings becomes a challenge. I would suggest that a primary disciplinary tool is to begin discipline by acknowledging a child child’s feelings. “I understand that broccoli is not your favorite food and it tastes ...