"Many of us have watched people become uneasy, if not positively furious, when they believe some offense--including one committed by a child--has not been punished severely enough. Later in this book I will argue that a child's misbehavior is best construed as a "teachable moment," a problem to be solved together rather than an infraction that calls for a punitive response. I will try to show that this approach is not only more respectful and humane but also much more effective over the long haul at helping children develop a sense of responsibility."