Xref: 127.0.0.1 uk.rec.gardening:167359

In article . network,
Dave Liquorice wrote:
On Sat, 8 Mar 2003 09:31:23 +0000 (UTC), Paul Kelly wrote:

So, you have a hot iron and need to leave the room to get something,
so you say to your 2 year old "Don't touch" ?

No, say "Hot" or "Hot, don't touch." but it may be best to avoid the
"don't touch" part as that makes said 2 year old curious, "Why
shouldn't I touch it?". By saying "Hot" or "Hot, don't touch" you are
telling the child *why* they shouldn't touch.

By 2 both of my children knew what hot meant and touching things that
are hot was a bad idea. They learn't that mainly by the repeated
verbal association of hot and don't touch and very occasional
encounters with hot objects.

I was more brutal. I left a hot metal kettle on the ground, told
them "hot - don't touch" and didn't stop them. Yes, I was watching
closely, to ensure they didn't pour it over themselves.

The elder grabbed once, was comforted, tried with one fingertip the
next day and never again. She was WELL under two. The younger was
more naturally conservative and followed the behaviour of her sister.

They were both handling sharp kitchen knives by four, under careful
supervision - and both had been shown how "sharp hurts" in a way that
would cause no permanent damage. Yes, I did prod them with a knife
tip - and would now be regarded as a cruel parent.

The methods of Professor Pavlov work as well on children as on dogs,
except that human children are more intelligent and learn much faster.
Well, most do ....


Regards,
Nick Maclaren,
University of Cambridge Computing Service,
New Museums Site, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QH, England.
Email:
Tel.: +44 1223 334761 Fax: +44 1223 334679