mealtimes, for example, which should be enjoyed without pressure, at a leisurely pace. The dinner table should be a stress-free zone, with no place for scolding or pronouncements like “You will remain at the table until you’ve finished the food on your plate!” and without constant television channel hopping. This is important for adults, but it is vital for small children, whose gut brain develops in parallel with their head brain. The earlier in life mealtime calm is introduced, the better.