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Doing Things *For* Your Kid, Not *To* Them

Good Inside · 1m · transcribed May 2026
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0:00 I think we all know whether someone's doing something to us or for us. I just think as humans you feel the difference even if the intervention is the same. If I take phones, let's say I have a new rule that my kid can't sleep with their phone in [music] their room, >> right? >> The intervention can look the same. A kid will feel whether you are doing that same thing on the surface to them or for them which I think relates punishment is something you do to someone. You do it to someone. It's doing it in the mindset of like, I don't really like this person in the moment. I'm doing this to them.

0:31 They're my enemy. The very same thing could be done from a very different mindset [music] and intention. I'm doing this for them. So, if I take the phone example, you've been on your phone at night. I told you you can't. I'm taking it. This is so bad for your brain. I don't care what you have to say. Like, I can do that, but I can tell you how that would feel. Like, I don't even hear what you're saying. All I feel is you think I'm a bad person. You kind of hate me right now. And you're vomiting your own frustration on me. like, okay, [music] versus, hey, I want to tell you about a decision I've made. Starting tonight, you're not going to have your phone in your room. And I want to tell you why.

1:02 I've learned new information about how important sleep [music] is. And the other thing I don't know if I've even said to you directly is my number one job is often to make decisions that I believe are good for you long term, even if you don't like

Summary

The speaker discusses the importance of intention behind actions, particularly in parenting. They emphasize that children can sense whether rules or interventions are imposed on them out of animosity or care, which significantly affects their emotional response.

- The same action can be perceived differently based on the intention behind it.
- Punishment is often seen as something done "to" someone, creating a sense of animosity.
- A caring approach involves doing things "for" someone, fostering understanding and support.
- Communication about decisions is crucial; explaining the rationale helps children feel valued.
- Emphasizing long-term benefits over immediate discomfort can strengthen trust and understanding.
- The speaker highlights the importance of sleep and its impact on well-being as a reason for setting rules.
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