“I Believe You” Building circuitry for consent comes from building circuitry for self-trust. If children don’t trust themselves and their feelings, they won’t believe in their ability to take charge of personal decisions. When your daughter tells you she’s cold even though it feels perfectly pleasant to you, believe her: “You’re cold, huh? I believe you. Let’s see what we can do about it.” When your child tells you he doesn’t like to be tickled, believe him: “I hear you. Tickling doesn’t feel good to you. I believe you, I’m glad you’re telling me, and I won’t do it anymore.” When your child
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