More on this book
Kindle Notes & Highlights
The underlying message of this book is that we already have what we need to be good parents.
Every time you show that you understand how your child feels and what your child wants, you’re demonstrating the power of a primal connection that all of us are born seeking.
Being kind to ourselves increases our capacity to be kind to those we love most.
Being-With means sitting still—not trying to change your child’s experience but accepting it and showing that you’re here with him in it as another human being who struggles with similar feelings.
children need a secure base for exploration as much as they need a safe haven for comfort.
A big part of attachment throughout childhood (and the rest of the lifespan, in fact) is figuring out when to rely on ourselves and when to seek help.
Our need to have a “happy baby” may temporarily pull an infant from her distress, but it will also teach her that some feelings can’t be shared.
“Whenever possible, follow your child’s needs. Whenever necessary, take charge.” Being the hands on the Circle is certainly about being available and sensitive to needs. Yet underlying this availability and sensitivity is our commitment to being someone our child can count on to be in charge.
