12. Punish Privately.—Avoid punishments that break down self-respect. Striking the body produces shame and indignation. It is enough for the other children to know that discipline is being administered.
13. Never Stop Short of Success.—When the child is not conquered the punishment has been worse than wasted. Reach the point where neither wrath nor sullenness remain. By firm persistency and persuasion require an open look of recognition and peace. It is only evil to stir up the devil unless he is cast out. Ordinarily one complete victory will last a child for a lifetime. But if the child relapses, repeat the dose with proper accompaniments.
14. Do Not Require Children to Complain of Themselves for Pardon.—It begets either sycophants or liars. It is the part of the government to detect offences. It reverses the order of matters to shirk this duty.
15. Grade Authority Up to Liberty.—The growing child must have experiments of freedom. Lead him gently into the family. Counsel with him. Let him plan as he can. By and by he has the confidence of courage without the danger of exposures.
16. Respect.—Parents must respect each other. Undermining either undermines both. Always govern in the spirit of love.
CONVERSATION