How to Know When Your Child is Ready to Make Choices

Every child must learn to make choices on the path toadulthood.Little children make little choices and are rewardedby being given bigger choices.The problem arises when little children are giventhe opportunity to make big choices or lots of choices—orworse, they contest a choice their mothers have already made—difficulties may arise.Here’s an example:

MOM: Honey, we’re going to the zoo, so please put yoursneakers on.

CHILD: I don’t want to wear my sneakers. I want towear my sparkle shoes.

MOM: B...