Frequent questions

【Ｑ】 My first daughter is 3 years 7 months old. 1 year and 2 months have passed since my second daughter was born, but my first daughter acts like she did when she was a baby. She wants to drink milk from a nursing bottle and uses baby words. Sometimes, she nestles up to me too much, and cannot understand what we say because she is fussing too noisily. On weekdays, she sticks close to me. I hold and piggyback my two daughters: one is 20kg and the other is 8kg. Then, on weekends, she sticks close to her father. Isn’t our physical contact enough? Should we just accept her as she is for a while? I am worried.

【Ａ】 Individuals differ in their tendencies to revert to infant behaviors but all children demonstrate it. At the time, satisfy her by giving her an 8 second tight hug. You have to put priority on your second daughter because she is still little. At these times, say something to your first daughter like “Please let me ○○ because your sister is crying.” Even if what you say is simple, it is OK. Then, as you take care of your second daughter, say, “When you were a baby, I also took care of you.” When she waits patiently for you, praise her ability to wait. If you satisfy her by placing priority on her, her infant-like behaviors will be disappear.

Also, 3 years old is the age of independence. But it does not mean that children can leave their parents perfectly. It is the age when children come to have their own ideas and are able to gradually separate from their parents, focusing their attention on the outer world. It may seem rebellious to you that she tries to have her own way. She will often nestle up to you as a step to prepare for leaving you. At these times, if you accept her situation as a part of the process of her growth, she will be relieved, take steps toward independence, and grow up. Unless her requests puzzle someone, or are selfish, try to accept them. In this way, her situation will change. A trusting relationship between you and your daughter will be created and she will be able to obey what you say. If you change your view or how you communicate with her, her situation will change. Satisfy her by giving her a tight hug. When she wants to nestle up to you, accept her request, and make the relationship between you and your daughter stronger.

【Ｑ】 My son is 5 years old. He is so sensitive. If I scold him a little, he cries and screams. If I warn him slightly, he repeats the words, “I hate you!” Also, he often punches my husband, his younger sister, and me. Everyday I’m tired of my rebellious son. My scolding is not effective but it is also not good to spoil him too much. What should I do?

【Ａ】 This situation shows you that your son needs your love. Convey your love by giving him an 8 second tight hug.

Make a time for just you and him, and convey how much you love him. Make your hugging situation easier by asking him something simple when he is in a good mood. As you give him a tight hug or caress his head and body, say to him, “Thank you for helping me. ○○(his name), I love you so much.” The skin is called “the place for the heart and love”. If you have enough physical contact with your son, your love will surely be conveyed to him, and his attitude will change.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 2 years 9 months old. Sometimes, she does not speak clearly in front of me. However, I was told that she spoke clearly when I left her at a friend’s home for a while. When I scold her, I do not know what she is saying sometimes. Even if I speak to her kindly, she mumbles. She talks in a way that she is the only person who understands. How should I communicate with her?

【Ａ】 Probably, you are spoiling her. You do not have to think about her negatively because she can speak clearly when she is away from home. Children have the desire to grow up. Now, accept her with your smile, and satisfy her. Look into her eyes and listen to her seriously.

Also, in your daily life, read many picture books to her. By reading picture books to her, you not only have time to communicate with her, but also she can learn correct pronunciation or vocabulary. Believe in her growth, and communicate patiently with her.

Most likely she understands when she does something bad because her understanding has developed gradually. After you warn her that what she did is bad, even if she says something, just leave her. Give her a tight hug and praise her when she corrects her attitude.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 3 years 9 months old. She suddenly started to stutter when she was 3 years 6 months old. She will not say the first letter of words. If I say, “Relax and speak slowly,” she will can speak smoothly. I thought her stuttering would gradually be cured; but it is getting much worse recently. I am worried about it. At first, I didn’t not worry about it because Dr. Makoto Shichida’s book says, “Children of this age may suddenly stutter sometimes.” However, I have started to worry about it because her stuttering has gotten so bad. She is ambidextrous. She holds chopsticks and pencils with her left hand but uses scissors and throws a ball with her right hand. Is this related to her stuttering?

【Ａ】 You are worried about her stammering, but children often stutter suddenly when their brain changes over from the right brain to the left. They can understand various things and want to convey their ideas to someone. However, they do not know how to speak because they still cannot switch between brains well. This is why she stutters. If we worry about children too much, their situation sometimes gets worse. The best way is to communicate naturally with them without worrying. Circuits of words will be firmly created.

On the other hand, try to help your child relax by hugging her, saying many words of praise or conveying your love to her. As you do that, she will not stutter. It is not good for you to communicate with her when you are anxious about her. Communicate with her as you imagine that she is speaking smoothly. It is also good to give her good suggestions using Five-Minute Suggestions such as, “You can speak smoothly and easily. You can relax and speak.” It is great that she is not only a right-hander, but also a left-hander. You do not have to worry about her because she seems to choose hands depending on the situation. Please let her use both hands.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 2 years 3 months old. When she is in a good mood, she shows us wonderful responses. I am often surprised at them. However, she seems to have a strong ego. Once she begins a tantrum, she throws the things around her, lies down and finally cries. Even if I apologize to her, she never listens to me. What should I do for her in these situations?

【Ａ】 At these times, try leaving her for a while, and praise her when she stops crying. If you try to make her be in a good mood or apologize to her, it will have a bad effect on her. She will learn that when she cries you will try to improve her mood or apologize to her. She will not able to develop her self-control skills and will be selfish. When she cries or throws something, let her be but watch to be sure she is not in danger.

Then, when she calms down, please praise her by giving her a tight hug, “You stopped crying. Great!” She will learn that you will not communicate with her when she cries or behaves violently. She will also learn about enduring difficult situations by discovering that you accept, praise, and hug her when she endures. When she calms down, it is a chance for discipline. Children will improve through hugs and praise.

【Ｑ】　My son began walking when he was 8 months old. He learned to walk around at 10 months wearing his shoes. I thought this was because he was a boy. However, he will not sit in a car seat if he is fastened in. Also, he climbs on the back of the sofa and tries to pull out all books around him at the library. I say to him, “Don’t do that.” However I do not know when I should scold or praise him.

【Ａ】 Since your son has started walking freely, he is very curious. This is the period when he wants to do or touch everything. In other words, it is the time for experimenting and learning. Most children his age will do something without seeing if it is good or bad because they cannot distinguish between the two. If you forbid his doing something by saying, “Don’t do that,” he will lose his independence and curiosity. If he does something slightly disobedient, try to ignore it. However, when he does something dangerous or troubles someone, scold him seriously. In these cases, show your concern and tell him repeatedly about what he must not do as well as considering what he likes. For example, “A child car seat is necessary to keep you from getting injured,” or “If I watch you to make sure you won’t fall off, it is ok to climb on the back of the sofa a bit.”

Then, make the standard for your discipline such as, “I will forgive him up to this point, but I will not forgive him if he goes past that point.” If you try to communicate your standards with him, gradually he will be able to understand the difference between good and bad behavior without becoming confused.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 2 years 4 months old. She is a good girl at home, but when she is away from the house, she throws the things around her and does not listen to what I say. I am troubled by this behavior. I can have her do activities without difficulty and some results have appeared. Even when I warn her, she looks in another direction. Although she knows it is bad, she seems to want to upset me.

【Ａ】 Outside of the home, there are many things that your daughter is interested in. She is in a period of experimenting and learning. Now, she wants to do everything. However, it is time to seriously tell her seriously what she cannot do because it is bad or dangerous. Also, you should communicate with her using a consistent attitude at home. Please be careful not to communicate with her irregularly.

Also, she tries to upset you because she wants you look at her. In order to change a child’s attitude, it is important to check the parents’ way of communicating with them. Do your best to create a relationship between you and your daughter that contains enough physical contact and the sharing of love. Treasure your conversations with her, and seriously listen to her ideas and feelings. Children greatly trust people who accept and look at them in a positive manner. If she opens her mind andyou’re your relationship is strengthened, the troubles you have will disappear. Skin stimulus is a basic way to convey our love. Communicate your love by hugging and having physical contact with your daughter.

【Ｑ】 After my daughter entered elementary school, she is often in a bad mood. I think she is in a rebellious stage. However, as parents, we seriously worry about what we should do for her.

【Ａ】 Probably, she feels stressed in her new environment. Let her be relaxed. The foundation should be seriously conveying your love to your daughter. In the morning, take time to have physical contact with her like hugging her and saying to her, “Good morning”, and petting her head. Also, say some positive words to her. Focus on her good points, accepting and praising her, “Your smile is great,” “You greet very well.”

She will calm down when she feel confident. Give her responsibility by asking for her help with tasks that she can do. For example, ask her to water flowers, clean up the entryway, or clean the bath. Say to her, “○○(her name), I left it to you, please do it.” Then when she does it, please praise her.

【Ｑ】 My son will be 1 year 10 months old soon. When something does not go his way, for example, his toys (cars or trains) do not work as he expects, he gets mad and throws his toys. When I say to him, “Don’t do that.” he throws it at me because I scolded him. Although I am angry with him, I am only trying to warn him rather than shout at him. However, his attitude does not improve. Finally, I end up scolding him sometimes. In these cases, what should I do?

【Ａ】 It seems that his ego is developing and that he wants to do or express his feelings. But he still cannot carry out actions that way he would. When things do not go his way, he often cries, throws something, bites, or hits. This is a step of his growth and a sign that he is growing smoothly. This is common behavior. When your son grows up a little more, he will be able to do something or convey his feelings as he hopes and his attitude will naturally improve.

When he gets mad because he cannot do something the way he expects, talk to him to show that you understand his feelings, “You could not ○○,” “You wanted to ○○.” Then, guide him so that he can use his toys well, saying to him, “Let’s play with it like this.” “Let’s do it like this.” You should repeatedly tell him not to throw things. It is also good to guide him to another type of play by changing his toy to a soft ball and saying to him, “You can throw this many times.” If he is still angry even after you do these things, you should leave him for a while. When you teach your son what is bad, it is necessary to be strict with him and never change your strict attitude. Develop his understanding of good behavior by giving him a tight hug and praising the fact that he calmed down and stopped crying.

【Ｑ】 My first daughter is 4 years old. She often contradicts what I say. Additionally, her words are negative. For example, “You finished drawing.” → “I didn’t finish.” Or in a song, “Daddy, come back home quickly.” → “Don’t come back home quickly.”. When I praise her younger sister, my oldest daughter says to her, “You are bad at this.” Does she say these words because she is rebellious?”

【Ａ】 Children at this age display contrary behaviors and show us their rebellious attitude. If parents see and accept what their child says seriously, he/she will not get over this stage, and the relationship between the child and his/her parents will worsen. It is also good to make use of her contrariness, and say the opposite words from what you think. If she shows you this type of attitude because she is not getting enough of your love, please convey your love seriously by doing “a tight hug for 8 seconds” or “5 Minute Suggestions”. Using these methods, her troubled attitude will be disappear.

【Ｑ】 My son is 1 year old. He throws things at others and bites people with his full strength. What should I do?

【Ａ】 Children at his age often throw tantrums and throw objects or bite when things do not go their way. It is a sign that your son’s ego is developing. When a child’s ego develops, he/she tries to convey what he/she wants to do. However, they cannot express their feelings well because their speaking skills are not fully developed yet. They try to express their feelings by throwing objects and biting. Also, your son does not understand the distinction between good and bad. When he throws something at someone, tell him patiently that what he did is bad. He is not at the age when he can understand what is said to him, but look into his eyes and talk to him pretending that you are sincerely sad. This will make it easier for him to understand.

Also, when your son behaves violently, it is necessary to check to see if you are forcing him to do something, disciplining him too strictly, or placing stress on him.

【Ｑ】 My daughter will be 2 years old soon. When she can do something well, I hug and praise her. On the other hand, when she cannot do something, she cannot control herself. For example, when she has trouble eating, she turns over plates and cups, and throws her chopsticks. Obviously, at these times she is irritated with herself. Does she do these things because I praised her too much? In this case, how should I scold her?

【Ａ】 Don’t view your daughter’s present condition as her completed personality but rather look at who she will become over a long period of time.

It is usual for 2-year-old children not to be able to do things well. They also throw temper tantrums immediately because they have not developed dexterous fingertips yet. After half a year passes, amazingly she will not throw tantrums as easily because she will become more agile. It is good not to scold her now, to sympathize with her frustrations, and to encourage her by saying, “It’s alright. You will be able to do that soon.” If she continues her tantrum for a long time, you should take her outside in order to change her mood.

【Ｑ】 Until recently I have been able to have my son do activities smoothly. However, one day, he suddenly started to say “I don’t know,” even about the things I think he does know He doesn’t even try to listen to me. What should I do?

【Ａ】 As children develop their ego, they want to do things as they wish, or they do not listen. As a step of their growth, all children display this attitude. Don’t be too sensitive, and patiently observe your son’s growth. When he wants to say the contrary words against everything, try to first say the words opposite to what you are thinking. Or don’t seriously accept what he says, and say to him, “Really? You don’t know. OK. Then I will do it instead.” If you get through this period easily, he will go back to being an obedient, good child. Please understand that rather than trying to have your child obey your instructions it is good to sympathize with your son’s feelings.

Also, if you do Five-Minute Suggestions, he will smoothly revert to being an obedient child.

【Ａ】 I tend to obey my daughter. She (3 years 5 months) wants to do everything by herself. That is OK, but when things do not go on her way, she immediately cries. She tries to get me to do what she wants by crying, being fretful and attracting my attention. I frequently give in to my daughter and follow what she wants.

【Ｑ】 Probably, she does not yet understand what it means “to endure”. Gradually, teach her about the concept of “enduring” something.

When she cries, or is fretful, ignore her and leave her alone for a while. If she stops crying after a short time, hug her immediately and praise her ability to stop crying. In this way, she will learn to understand what it means to “endure”.

When she is in a negative mood, you should quietly watch her. When she alters her mood to a positive one, you should praise her a lot. If this becomes a habit to her, she will be able to control herself. Your resolution and firmness are necessary so that your daughter can learn to control herself. Be careful not that she does not learn a habit that you will give in to her desires when she throws a tantrum.

【Ｑ】 My daughter will be 3 years old soon. Recently, she will ask us or other adults to say something like, “Say ○○ to me.” After she says, “Mommy, take it!”, she will say, “Say, ‘No.’,” or “Say, ‘Well,’” Sometimes, she will say, “Say, ‘I want to eat.’.” It is close to forcing others to minutely follow something. At first, I said what she asked me to say, but now I am hesitant if I should say anything because she asks incessantly. How should I communicate with her?

【Ａ】 She is in a period where she is growing up, beginning to have her own ideas, and taking action according to these ideas. She seems selfish because she is trying to actualize her desires. However, try to view the spreading of her ego in a positive way. She plays by thinking of something by herself, and ordering you to do it. Try to play this game with her as much as possible.

In order to develop children’s ability to think, know what they want to do and bring out their interests. It is probably difficult to play this game with her because she often wants to. However, unless a game makes your daughter’s mind bad, try to play it with her as much as possible. Develop her basic abilities as you enjoy playing with her. In this way, you can lead her to other games and change the situation. If you deal with her patiently, and satisfy her needs, she will move to the next step, and will make up new games to play.

【Ｑ】 My son is 1 year 11 months old. He has strong curiosity. I often say, “No” to him because I care about him. Although he learns various things, I have to pay attention to dangerous things such as fire. How should I scold him? I often say to him, “Please, don’t do that.” When I say this, he gets angry. What should I say to him?

【Ａ】 Children under 2 and a half years old cannot distinguish between what they can do and what they must not do. At this age, they cannot understand why things are dangerous. Change the way you scold your child depending on his/her age. At his age, when he does something dangerous, draw his attention to something that is safe, saying to him, “Look, here is a toy.” If you try to stop him with words like “No” or “Don’t do that”, he will only feel that you took away what he wanted to do. He will resist you by crying or getting angry.

In order to teach him that something is bad or dangerous, one of ways he can understand is by learning with his body. For example, if you want him to understand that something is hot and dangerous, he can understand by touching something that is a little hot. This discipline tells a child’s senses that something is bad, and it has been done for many years. Also, to keep him from doing something dangerous, it is important to take care of his environment, for example, not putting something dangerous within his reach.

【Ｑ】 My daughter seems to listen to others, but actually does not. I am worried about this. She goes to a music school, but she plays with her hands, and does not listen to others. She often enters her own world, and she tries to do what she wants to do, even when she is playing with her friends. Now, she has many friends, but I am afraid that they will come to hate her

【Ａ】 Children do not seem to listen to others, but they do. They do not seem to listen because their parents think they are not listening. Stop thinking your daughter is not listening and ask her about the contents of a story if you think she is listening to it. Probably, she will be able to answer more than you expect. At that time, praise her to show your pleasure, saying to her, “You can listen to someone as you play. ○○(her name), you are great. You are a genius!” If children are praised, they will react to the praise and try to listen to their parents seriously. If you notice that she listened to someone, tell other members of your family, and have them praise her, and she will grow up to be a better child. Also, entering her own world is a sign that she can concentrate and utilize her right brain. It is good to change your view and praise her. Praise and accept her favorite things without denying them. Then, say to her something like, “That looks fun. Let’s tell your friends about your favorite things and games.” Also, praise the fact that she has many friends, “○○, you are good at making friends. Words that praise children are the best way to change them.

【Ｑ】 Sometimes, I overhear children saying surprisingly things during conversations. When it gets too bad, I interrupt saying, “These words are bad, aren’t they?” However, sometimes, I hesitate to do that because I wonder if it is better just to observe them. For example, one child will say to another, “○○(the boy’s name), I hate you, so I am going to promise not to play with you.” My daughter (1^st grade) just listens to them and sighs. Should I not interrupt the other children’s conversations?

【Ａ】 When children do something wrong, parents or adults around them should tell them that it is wrong or correct them. This is our duty. In this case, advise them so that they understand that they have spoken badly about someone. For example, say to them, “If your friends say to you, ‘I hate you.’ will you be sad?” If adults hear a child speak poorly about someone, and warn the child, not only the child, but also the other children nearby can learn that speaking evil of someone is bad. However, if you pass by children who are speaking badly about someone but you do not know them, you should not warn them because you are not familiar to them. They will not accept your advice calmly because you are a stranger to them. When warning children, it is also necessary to consider the timing and occasion.

【Ｑ】 My son is 4 years 3 months old. He never listens to me until I get angry. I think that discipline is needed for him, and I get strict with him sometimes. However, his grandfather, who lives with us, is too indulgent with my son. When he is scolded, he runs to his grandfather’s room. Recently, what is even worse is that he says bad words to his grandfather who obeys anything he asks.

【Ａ】 In your daily life, try to place priority on your son’s grandfather.

Show your son that you appreciate and respect his grandfather. As your son grows up, his way of communicating with his grandfather will change by observing your attitude. Have him make a habit of giving his grandfather shoulder rubs or giving snack to his grandfather first.

Tell him that people must not say bad words to others, and that when a person uses bad words his or her mind is dirtied and other people will be saddened. Do an experiment so that your son can understand this idea through observation. Prepare for 2 fruits, for example, 2 oranges or 2 tomatoes. Say good words (ex. thank you) to one fruit every day. On the other hand, say bad words (ex. you are an idiot) to the other fruit. The fruit that received the good words will stay fresh and the other fruit, which received the bad words, will go bad and turn black. These are scary results. While having your son learn through experience, also tell him that if you speak good words, your mind will be clean, but if you speak bad words, your mind will get dirty. If you say to your son, “○○(his name), I want you to grow up to be a person with a clean mind. So, let’s not use bad words,” he will be able to easily understand easily.

【Ｑ】 Recently, my oldest daughter (1^st grade) often tells lies. For example, when she loses something, she will say, “It is at my school.” Or when she does something, she says, “○○(her friend’s name) did it.” My second child is so cute, but I am too strict with my first daughter. However, since I have come to understand the Shichida Method, our relationship has improved because I often hug or praise her. Should I believe her obvious lies? Or should I tell her that telling a lie is bad?

【Ａ】 Sometimes, children tell a lie or do other troubling things. This is a sign that they want to attract their parents’ attention and to get their parents’ love. Probably, since you began hugging her she is now able to convey the feeling “I want to be loved” which she was enduring. If you receive her signs, and bring her up using the Shichida Method (conveying your love, accepting, praising, and developing your daughter), she will be satisfied and will stop telling a lie. If you scold her when she has told a lie, she will not be satisfied, and will grow up to be a liar. Ask for her help, and after she finishes the task, convey to her how much you rely on her and love her by giving her a tight hug and saying, “You are my treasure.” If you can adequately convey your love to your daughter, she will stop telling lies.

【Ｑ】 These days, I often talk with other mothers about “How should we deal with our children’s boasting?” My parents said to me, “It is good not to boast about what you can do.” I grew up believing this is true. I have said to my daughter, “Even if you are able to do something more quickly than other children, you should not boast about it.” However, some mothers say that it is childlike to boast to each other because they did their best. I worry about what I should say to my daughter when she boasts. Please give me good advice.

【Ａ】 Your question is about how you should deal with your daughter’s boasting, but why does she boast? Probably because she thinks, “I can do this!” “I’m so great!” Certainly, it is wonderful that she could say her multiplication tables since she was little. (You didn’t indicate how old she is.) It is one of her achievements. She is happy she is able to do that. She challenges the next step because she is glad. This positive cycle is very good.

However, boasting to someone can be thought of as “comparing yourself with someone”. We do not study “to be superior to others”. There are 3 reasons why we study:

• We are happy to grow up.
• We can achieve our goals.
• We can contribute to the world.

You should remember these reasons. Don’t compare your daughter with others or put priority on her academic achievements.

【Ｑ】 My son (2 years 4 months old) has been attending an infant school near our house for 3 months, but he is attached to his teacher and he cries when separated from her. We go to a child-rearing group and the park, but he cannot be separated from me. I think he is shy around people and places. On the other hand, he runs around in the department store or public places. It is dangerous sometimes. I take him to the school for his own benefit, but he cries and does not do activities. I wonder if I should keep taking him. Also, I worry that because his younger sister was born when he was 1 year 10 months old he has reverted back to his infancy.

【Ａ】 He seems to get shy in school or unfamiliar places, but this often happens during this stage of children’s growth because they are shy of strangers or unfamiliar places. Also, this is the age where your son wants to separate from you, but he cannot do it perfectly yet. Furthermore, he seems to go revert to baby behaviors. He probably needs more of your love. When he needs you, you should accept and satisfy him. It is still necessary for him to stay with you. The basis of society is the relationship between parents and children. Don’t worry too much, and remember that you will satisfy him by increasing the times you hug him. When he gets older, and develops his understanding, he will hardly cry, and will be able to do activities at school.

However, if you think negatively, for example “I took him to school, but he…”, he will feel your negativity, and it will make the activities boring. After going to school, the children’s group or the park, relieve him by giving him a tight hug and saying to him kindly, “○○(his name), my heart always stay with yours, so you don’t have to worry about anything.”

Also, if you have him imagine, through Five-Minute Suggestions, that he and his classmates enjoy learning so much at school, for example, “Your teacher and your friends love you. You love them, too,” these suggestions will come true. Additionally, he will like his school, and be willing to go. You can solve some of your troubles by doing Five-Minute Suggestions.

【Ｑ】 My son is 4 years old. He loves dinosaurs so much. But he is shy. When neighbors greet him, he says, “Gyaooooo.” When he is asked something, he says, “Wooooo.” Whenever he says those things, I say to him, “Let’s say ‘Hello.’”, but he says “I’m too shy!” I think he will be able to say it someday, but I worry about it with my arms crossed because my younger child (2 years old) imitates him.

【Ａ】 It seems difficult for your son to greet others. However, in such a case, if you force him to greet others, he will not want to, contrary to your expectations. First, show him a model by greeting someone with your smile.

On the other hand, guide him to be able to greet someone by saying kindly, “I think a good boy can greet others well.” Then, try to raise him through praise. If he can greet a little, sincerely and dramatically praise him. Through this praise he will gain confidence, become motivated, and be willing to greet others.

【Ｑ】 I always want my daughter to be able to use her time well, but it is difficult to convey my feelings to her. From the beginning, she has had a slow personality. Once she starts something, she wants to do it for a long time until she is satisfied. It is wonderful that she can stay focused, but it is beginning to have effects on her daily life, such as at school. The older she gets the harder it is for her to use her time effectively because the amount of restrictions increase. Please give me some good hints.

【Ａ】 It is really wonderful to have concentration and to be able to keep it. Also, if you develop her high-speed processing ability, it will be “a double advantage.” The right brain works at a very high speed. If you have her do rapid training, high-speed circuits in her right brain will work naturally, and she will do things quickly. Try adding rapid training into her activities. You can do the training in various ways. The easiest way is Reading Listening Speaking Training. Have her listen to CDs that are recorded at several times the normal speed. As she listens, have her “read” the text, listen to it, and say it out loud following along with the CDs.

【Ｑ】 My son is 5 years 8 months old. He goes to kindergarten, but it is difficult for him to prepare to go. He does not hate kindergarten, but he cannot easily do what he needs to because he forgets or starts to play. I made a chart of his schedule, and said to him, “Next what will you do?”, but it is only effective at that time. I say to him, “If you get ready for your next day at kindergarten by 9 o’clock each night, I will circle the day. If you get 20 circles, let’s go out to eat,” but he can only do it once or twice a week. I have him prepare for kindergarten by himself as much as I can, but is it too early? Please give me some advice.

【Ａ】 Try doing Five-Minute Suggestions with him. When he has just fallen asleep, give him good suggestions like “You are such an active boy. Your brain works very actively, and you can do anything quickly. You like ○○. The more you do something, the more quickly you will be able to do it. Now, you do something very quickly in your dream. Everyone is impressed by your quick actions.” Then, have him listen to Mozart. The work in his brain will change, and he will transform into a child who can concentrate and memorize.

【Ｑ】 My son is 3 years old. He is so timid. It probably started when he was afraid of a trick clock and the dolls on display at his grandmother’s house. Now, he is scared by pictures in picture books and calendars, and says as he cries, “Please hide it.” (Maybe, he dislikes the eyes.) He says many things like this. I am troubled by what I should do.

【Ａ】 All children experience a period when they are afraid of everything. If you force them to get used to it, or you scold them, they will be even more scared. As he experiences various things, he will become accustomed to exciting things. Remember that this phase is temporary, and don’t worry too much. If you just worry, he will feel your emotions and become more and more scared.

When he is scared, relieve him by hugging him and saying, “Don’t worry. I’ll be with you.” He will feel your warmth and develop his relief through your hugs. Even if what scares him is what you hate, relieve him by pretending not to care about it.

Also, have him experience success in many things so that he actively tries anything, and so that his strength to overcome difficulties is developed. Please develop your son’s confidence by giving him tasks that he can achieve when he makes only a little effort. Develop his interests and what he is good at. It will bring out his confidence and strengthen his mind.

【Ｑ】 My older son is 7 years old. He is earnest and a kind brother. He is also considerate of his younger brother. My younger son wants anything his older brother has. But my older son gives things to his younger brother immediately. It is ok, but when he is playing and someone cuts in line in front of him or his turn is skipped, he doesn’t seem to mind. I am afraid that he is always at a disadvantage. How should I teach him?

【Ａ】 Your son has grown up to be a very kind boy. This is because you have adequately conveyed your love to him. As he grows up, his desire to possess something will appear, but you do not need to compare your son with others or worry about him. Think positively that he will grow up to be a kind child who can lend his belongings to others.

He is patient and can share his belongings with others, because you have good communication with him. When a child is young, it is very important to adequately convey parents’ love, and to teach the child not to be selfish and considerate toward others. Keep accepting and praising your son’s good points and treasure your communication with him.

【Ｑ】 I need your advice about my daughter who is in the 1^st grade. She gets nervous about everything when someone is near her. When someone is near her, she seems unable to think freely. I think she is at an age when she can absorb various things like objects, voices and conversations around her as if she were a sponge. But she seems too nervous to think about anything. Sometimes, she cannot hear what I say. When she let her depend on me, and do things for her, she hears what I say. However, if I warn her a little, she seems to stop thinking. I want her to be free from the cycle of stress. What should I do?

【Ａ】　She seems to be nervous in front of others. In order to release her stress, do image training. Do it in the following order:  meditation, controlled breathing, and images. In meditation, have her close her eyes and relieve her. After about 20 seconds, do controlled breathing. Have her breathe more slowly and deeply than usual. This is abdominal breathing, also known as “controlled breathing” In order to help her easily understand the technique, it is good to say to her, “When you breathe in, puff out your tummy like a balloon. When you breathe out, your tummy will be flat.” Then, after repeating this three times, have her imagine. Have her imagine something good by saying, “○○(her name), you are going to show your performance to many people. You are relaxed as you cheerfully show them.” Only have her imagine what she wants to do. When she imagines, have her do so in a good state. Her brain waves will synchronize with yours, and it will be easier for her to sense your feelings. When she imagines, try to resonate with her (try to you synchronize your brain waves with hers). In order to do this, you should imagine while helping her to imagine.

Then, do Five-Minute Suggestions, as well. Say to her, “○○(her name), you can listen obediently. You can relax and speak in front of others without being ashamed.” When she is in front of someone, tell her to relax by closing her eyes and breathing deeply for a while. Try to have her begin with imagining that she in successful in small things which relate to her.

【Ｑ】 My son is 5 years old. He hates to lose. When he makes a mistake on a worksheet or cannot guess correctly in Right Brain Memorization, he cries and is mortified by his mistakes. I have never scolded him about his mistakes, and I say to him, “Even if you make some mistakes, it’s alright,” but his behavior does not change. What should I do? Am I saying something wrong to him?

【Ａ】　“It is too bad that you made a mistake, right? However, you are great because you were able to do it up to this point. You will be eventually be able to do the thing you made a mistake on. So, let’s try it.” In this way, accept his embarassment, praise what he was able to do, and encourage him more. He will find his weak points and grow up because he has made mistakes. The mistakes become chances. As he repeatedly makes mistakes, the amount of what he can do increases. He will gain confidence gradually, and will not care about making little mistakes.

In Shichida Education, we think it is important to praise what children are able to do. Even if they make a mistake, we should accept them, saying “Good job” or “Well done.” Children come to like activities because they are praised. They will continue doing activities because they are accepted.

【Ｑ】 My younger son is good at playing alone. However, my oldest daughter says to me all day, “What are we going to play next?” I am worried because she likes to play with me. But she is already 6 years old…Do you have any good ideas to solve this?

【Ａ】 It is necessary for 6-year-old children to develop their sociability in which they are independent of their parents and can play in harmony with other children. Take part in local events or events for children, and have her experience various things like communicating with other children. You should develop her confidence by letting her help you, and praising and accepting what she was able to do. It is helpful for developing her independence.

Bring out her intellectual curiosity by teaching her to read books or draw pictures. If she finds things she enjoys and becomes absorbed in them, she will be able to play alone. Also, share positive images with your daughter so that she can be relieved when she is separated from you, for example, “When you leave me, you will be all right! Our hearts are linked to each other, ” or “When you leave me, you can be relaxed and enjoy playing.”

【Ｑ】 My son is an elementary school student. When he does anything, he never tries and immediately depends on others, for example, “How do I do it? Do it for me!” When he plays with his friends, he relies on his friends, “△△(his friend’s name), do it for me, because I can’t do it!” I encourage him to do things by saying to him, “○○(his name), let’s try it so that you can do it,” but he says, “No, I won’t.” He has no motivation. Please tell me some words that will motivate him.

【Ａ】 Your son seems careful. Probably, he depends on others because he is afraid of making a mistake. It is most effective to use the “Model Image Method”, in which he tries to do something after he imaging that he can do it. In this way, he will be able to do the task. Do not deny him. Have him image before he does anything, and give him positive suggestions that he can do things just as he imagines them. Please say to him, “○○, your brain has a genius function that remembers everything and does things easily once it sees a model. So, you will definitely be able to do it.”

In order to motivate him, you should not negate your son and accept him just as he is. Then, it is good to guide him to use his right brain to bring out his expert brain functions and do things just as he imagines, developing his abilities in virtual rehearsals. If you have him experience easily doing tasks by himself, and sincerely praise what he can do, you will be able to motivate him more and more.

【Ｑ】 My son is 4 years old, and was born between January 1 and April 1 [a late birthday]. I care about his actions very much. I had him enter kindergarten this April, and he will attend the school for 2 years because I am concerned about “his late birthday” and his speech. He always sucks his thumb. He becomes easily attached to people, and will follow them to the bathroom or stick to others at his kindergarten. I am so troubled by it. When he sucks his thumb, even if I say to him, “You will be a ‘Gazigon’ (from ‘Can You Do It? Vol.1’), he says to me, “I’m not a pencil.” This troubles me.

【Ａ】 Children who are born between January 1 and April 1 are about 1 year younger than children who were born last April. It is a heavy pressure on the younger children. Encourage him to grow up mentally by asking him to help with something easy, and by treating him as a man. If you worry that he cannot do enough, your feelings will be conveyed to him negatively. If you change your view and the way you praise and communicate with him, he will also change. He will make an effort among children who were born earlier. Try supporting him.

If he started sucking his thumb when he entered kindergarten, it is probably a sign that he has anxiety in his heart. say to him, “○○(his name), I love you so much,” as you give him a tight hug, or imagine what he is good at by doing Five-Minute Suggestions with him. In your image, convey the harmony of friendly play with his friends or a picture of him not sucking his thumb.

【Ｑ】　My son is 2 years 10 months old. When slightly older children visit our house, and do something he does not like, he hits them. This worries me. I try, as much as I can, not to scold him because my parents say, “He will only be like this temporarily, so it’s alright.” However, if I do not scold him, the other children do not seem satisfied. How should I communicate with my son?

【Ａ】 Your son hits someone when he does not like something because he cannot yet express his thoughts through words well. Just as people around you say, you do not have to scold him too strictly because his situation is temporary. However, you should tell him that hitting is something that he should not do.

When he hits his friends, apologize to the friends for him, “I’m sorry he slapped you.” Then, in front of the other child, tell your son that it is bad to hit someone and what he should say instead, “Stop hitting someone, because it is painful when someone hits you. In this situation, you can say ‘○○’ instead.” He will not be able to immediately understand just because you tell him about it. It is important to patiently continue to talk to him about it.

【Ｑ】 My daughter often plays outside. I always have to watch her. I know I shouldn’t, but I use words that forbid like, “○○(her name), don’t eat that.” or “○○, don’t touch that.” She is not even 1 year old yet. I feel like I am only going to end up saying no more and more and I hate myself. I want to help my daughter understand without negating her, but what kind of feeling should I have or what should I say?

【Ａ】 Now, your daughter has a strong curiosity in which she wants to try to do various things. She wants to do what she likes because she still cannot distinguish between what is good or what is bad. Mischievous actions in the process of growth are called “children’s work” Even if children are told, “No”, they will keep doing the action many times. Parents get angry with their child and sometimes scold him or her strictly, but this will only make the child worse and he or she will react stronger. It is difficult not to scold your daughter because you want her to be disciplined. However, think of her actions now as experiments in which she is learning, and communicate with her trying to get her to do things that you think are safe. It is good to make rules in your house, and to communicate them to her. On the other hand, keep teaching her with patience about what she should not do.

Also, before saying, “Don’t do that,” it is good to divert her attention to other things by saying to her, “Look, there is ○○ over there. Shall we go over there?” When she does things you don’t want her to do, sincerely tell her with a sad look or action that you do not want her to do that and it will be easier for her to understand.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 5 years old. Even when her teacher at kindergarten or someone she knows greets her with “Good morning” or “Goodbye”, she does not look at them or and greet them. I have warned her several times, but recently she does not greet them. I am worried about her. At least, I want her to cheerfully greet her teacher at kindergarten. When if I meet people, I cheerfully greet them, but why doesn’t my daughter? Is it impossible for a 5-year-old child to greet someone?

【Ａ】 Maybe, she is a little embarrassed of greetings. She may not to be able to greet someone because of her age. You should not force her to greet, but guide her, as you do now, by showing examples so that she can learn to greet people. In order for her to be able to spontaneously greet others, try greeting as much as possible at home. Parents or people around children should not have the children greet first, but show them examples by initiating the greeting, like, “Good morning.” “Goodbye.” “Let’s eat.” “It was very delicious. Thank you.”

If people around your child greet her often, she will learn to greet, and except for her family members, she will greet people soon. At first, you should keep initiating the greeting. In addition, it is important to have an abundance of physical contact, and to convey your love to your daughter. Try to say kind words to her and convey your love to her by giving her a tight hug for 8 seconds. After giving her suggestions of your love or oneness, it is also good to say to her, within Five-Minute Suggestions, “When I greet someone, you can greet the person along with me using your smile.” Please treasure raising your daughter as you accept and praise her. When she can greet slightly, please develop her motivation and eagerness by sincerely praising her.

【Ｑ】 My son is already in the 2^nd grade. However, if I do not check his belongings, he will forget to bring something to school. In order to help him prepare for school by himself, what should I say to him?

【Ａ】 It is good to help your son prepare for school by imagining what he will do at school. He should look at the school timetable, imagine the contents of the classes, and prepare for them. At first, if you ask him, “Third period is PE, right? What do you need?” he will be able to imagine more easily.

Also, it is also good to make a calendar together on which your son can write the things he needs to bring or place the clothes or belongings he needs to take in a basket. At first, prepare for school along with your child, gradually letting him prepare by himself. Words are important suggestions for him. Develop his eagerness by focusing on the things in which he makes small efforts. Say to him, “You remembered to bring it. You did it!” It is important to trust your son and not worry too much.

【Ｑ】 My son is the 5^th grade. I am troubled because he often forgets to bring things to school. He not only forgets to bring things but also to do his homework. I always tell him to finish his homework as soon as he gets home. He will say, “I’ve finished it,” but in fact he usually has not. I cannot check what his homework is because his teacher does not write it in the parent-teaching communication notebook. If he forgets to do his homework, his teacher warns him. However, he does not care, and forgets to do it. What should I do?

【Ａ】 It seems difficult for your son to make a habit of doing his homework. First, ask him why he is learning. Then, ask him what he wants to be in the future. If he says, “When I become a grown-up, I want to be ○○,” say to him, “So, in order to become a ○○, what do you think you need to do?” With your son, think about the importance of learning. He will understand the importance of doing his homework, and will be able to develop his motivation.

On the other hand, create an environment in which he can easily learn. Make a chart of his routine, and have him learn about when the easiest time for learning is. Help him make it his habit. Then, you should encourage him to do his homework as you guide him. However, if you say too much to him, sometimes he will lose his eagerness. Try “not to say too much” and “not to scold”, and while gauging your son’s condition, guide him so that he can gradually check on his own if he needs to do his homework.

【Ｑ】 My son is 3 years old. He has too many toys and picture books. I think he is growing up to be a person who does not treasure things. He throws his things and wants new ones. My parents and my husband buy new, various things for him. Also, he often gets used toys. Since he was 1 year old, I have made cleaning up a habit, but he cannot do it yet. What should I do so that my son treasures his belongings? And how can I raise him to be patient?

【Ａ】　It is not good to give children too many toys. Having too many toys takes away children’s concentration and makes them fickle and easily bored. If your son has many toys, you should put them in a place where he cannot pull all of them out. Decrease the number of toys around your son by putting out only needed toys, putting away a toy after using it, or giving him a new toy and having him play with it. You should decrease the number of toys he has. If you have him use only a few toys in various ways, you will develop his concentration. You should not just let him get toys. If you manage him well, and have him play with a few toys, he will grow up to be a clever child.

At first, help him clean up his toys. If you prepare a box or shelves for him to he put toys in, help him easily understand which toys should be put in which box by putting stickers on the box or make a toy box with him, his consciousness will be developed. Make cleaning up toys a habit by putting toys in away in the places they belong.

【Ｑ】 My son is 3 years old. He has no attachment to his belongings, and he says to me immediately, “Can I throw it away?” This may be because I give him too many intellectual books or toys. When I said to him, “The smock (which I made with my love) is too small for you, isn’t it,” he said, “So, I can throw it away, right?” When he cannot use his toy as he wants, he says, “I don’t need it.” How should I teach him about the importance of items or “wastefulness” Is it bad to give him too many things?

【Ａ】 It is not good to give children too many toys or objects. They will not understand the value of things. It is the best to give your son one or two toys. You should not buy toys for him all the time. When he does something good, buy toys for him as a reward. Put toys in a box and take out only the toys you need for activities.

When your son cannot do something as he hopes, help and guide him to be able to do it gradually. For example, when he does a puzzle, you should connect some pieces in advance. He will be able to experience achievement when he connects a few pieces. Have him experience many moments of success by having him do easy tasks. Then, if he wants to get rid of a toy, appeal to his feelings, saying to him, “Poor toy! The toy also wants to play with you, ○○(his name).”

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 1 year 8 months old. Her teeth are beginning to come in. Everyday, I have difficulties brushing her teeth. Since her teeth began coming in, I have tried to have her hold a toothbrush. However, she does not let me finish brushing her teeth. I always have to calm her down. If she lets me brush her teeth, I let her stamp a calendar. However, she does not easily open her mouth. Do you have any good advice?

【Ａ】 You should begin by getting your daughter accustomed to the feeling of a toothbrush. Have her get used to it gradually. The inside of our mouths is so sensitive. Many children have trouble getting used to the feeling of a toothbrush, and hate to have their teeth brushed. You should place priority on having her get accustomed to it, gradually touching her face or wiping the inside of her mouth. Remember that around 2 years old is the period for getting used to a toothbrush and the touching of the inside of the mouth. If you keep brushing her teeth, she will be gradually become accustomed to being touched inside her mouth. When you brush her teeth, try not to brush all her teeth at once. For example, today, brush her upper front teeth. Tomorrow, brush her lower front teeth. On the next day, brush her right back teeth. In this way, gradually brush her teeth and praise her if she lets you brush her teeth for a short time. If she is praised, it will be more fun for her to have her teeth brushed, right? It is important to draw out your daughter’s motivation to brush her teeth by herself.

Also, you should not try to have your daughter brush her teeth by herself, but you should brush together and show her an example of how to do it. If you show her a specific place to brush saying, “Can you brush here? Can you do it like this?” she will brush her teeth more easily, and she will enjoy it as if it were a game. Make brushing her teeth fun by reading a picture book about brushing teeth, brushing along with her favorite character, or brushing while singing a song.

【Ｑ】 My daughter will be in the 5^th grade soon. She does what she is interested in. She cannot move on to another task after she finishes what she is currently doing. She does not seem to try to keep promises. She lets the time pass by deceiving or pretending to forget her promises. Please tell me how to correct her behavior.

【Ａ】 You should not look at your daughter negatively. Also, do Five-Minute Suggestions. The secret to raising children well is to never look at them negatively, to accept and praise them, and to convey parents’ love to them. When she does something troubling, you should be sure to speak positive words to her. If your daughter can clean up after herself, even if your words are about keeping a promise, it is ok. It is good to praise her for things that you think are normal, for example, when she wakes up cheerfully in the morning, or she is able to greet others.

In addition, work on her subconscious. You will see results to your child’s troubling problems by using Five-Minute Suggestions. You can also do Five-Minute Suggestion when she is sleeping. When your daughter is sleeping soundly, her brain wave are δ(Delta) waves. Give her Key Suggestions by calling her name as you caress her body. Her brain waves will change to θ(theta) waves. At that time, give her subconscious positive suggestions like, “○○(her name), you can concentrate on doing one thing. When you clean up, it feels really great.” It is important to keep doing Five-Minute Suggestions. It takes at least 3 months for a brain circuit to be completely formed. You should not give up because you don’t immediately see results. Keep patiently doing suggestions. Also, the maximum number of suggestions you should give at one time is 3. You should not give your daughter too many suggestions at once. After some results appear, give her other suggestions.

【Ｑ】 My older daughter is 6 years old. Even if I ask for her help with something easy (ex. preparing plates for meals, pouring tea, etc.), she does not do it immediately. Instead, her grandmother does it. Should I force her to do it, or should I wait until she is willing to help? (Now, for her, it seems natural that her grandmother does it.)

【Ａ】 If you force her to help there will be no meaning in it. If she does not feel that it is fun to help you, it is not effective. First, reflect on whether you and your daughter are able to sincerely understand each other. If you raise her by accepting, praising, and loving her, and convey your love to her enough, she will be willing to do what you ask of her. If she does not do something, it is because her heart is not moved by it. Please accept and praise what she does, and adequately convey your love to her. She will begin immediately doing what you ask of her.

【Ｑ】 My son is 2 years 9 months old. I am very glad that he loves helping (imitating) me. If I do not ask him help me, he washes dishes, wipes them with a dishcloth, and puts them back in the cupboard. I don’t let him use dangerous objects such as kitchen knives, saying to him, “You might injure your hand. When you get older, you can help me.” But he never understands.

Then as he cries, he hits me, throws dishes, and gets angry. When he cannot do things from the beginning to the end, he never understands. I am a slightly worried about this.

【Ａ】 I know that you don’t want him to touch kitchen knives if possible because there is a risk of him injuring himself when he uses them. However, as he grows older, he will not be able to use them well. If you have him use objects from the time he is young, it will be possible for him to understand how to use them. Satisfy him first by teaching him the safe way to use it, and have him do what he can. When he wants to do something he clearly cannot do, ask him to complete another task, for example, “Only I can cut this, but I’d like to ask you to cut something else.” By having your son cut something himself or helping you cook, it is possible to satisfy your son and help him eat what he dislikes. When he helps you, please praise him sincerely.

【Ｑ】 My son is 5 years old. I don’t see my son desperately try hard in anything even when playing. I don’t think the reason is that he is an only child but I care about him. I am most concerned that when something is placed in front of him, he says, “I can’t do it.” For us as parents do you have any solutions?

【Ａ】 In order to develop his motivation, you should convey your love to him sincerely, and satisfy him by accepting and praising what he does. Children’s motivation develops from the relief they feel when their mothers love them. In your daily life, try to say many positive words to him, and convey your love to him by hugging him. By being accepted and praised, he will naturally change into a child who has confidence.

In addition, find out what he is good at, and develop it gradually. If he finds “something in which he can beat everyone”, it will increase his confidence, and he will try to do various things.

If you have him try something difficult from the beginning, he will lose his confidence because he will not be able to do it. If you force him to do something, saying, “You have to do this,” he will lose his confidence unnecessarily. Don’t force him to do something. Instead, develop his confidence by helping him slightly, or give him something he can easily do and have him experience the feeling of “I can do it.”. When he is able to do something slightly, please praise him sincerely. He will gain confidence by being praised; it will develop his motivation and lead to his eagerness to try various things.

When he says, “I can’t do it,” guide him to be able to do it gradually by saying kind words to him like, “It’s alright. ○○, you can do it. Let’s do it together.” Even if it takes a long time for him to be able to do something, it is ok. Please believe in your son, accept and praise the things he can do and watch over him kindly.

【Ｑ】 My son is the 2^nd grade. He often says that it is difficult to not be able to say “no” to his friends. I’ve said to him before, “When you dislike something, you can say, ‘No.’”. But, he started easily saying “no” to things that he should do (ex. going to school). How should I explain to him that sometimes there are things he should do even if he does not want to do them or about the importance of keeping a promise?

【Ａ】 Probably, he started easily saying “no” because he was relieved by your words, “When you dislike something, you can say ‘no.’” He may feel that he can now honestly say what he thinks. But he is the person who can know best what he should do.

First, accept his feelings as he tries hard to grow up. Say to him, “You are trying hard to endure aren’t you,” or “Think about how your friends feel.” Then, convey your gratitude that he is here now, “Thank you for being here.” His energy will change in a positive way. He will be able to have confidence and gain motivation again.

【Ｑ】 My son is 2 years 11 months old. He can do various activities and speak in various ways at home. However, he usually fools around in front of his teacher during his lessons (ex. when he is asked his name, he says nothing or the wrong name). How should I help him be more serious?

【Ａ】 When people focus their attention on children, they get nervous, anxious, or lose confidence. Some children try to remove these feelings by fooling around. He can do various things at home. Probably, he is a little nervous in his classroom. We recommend that you talk with the teacher about your son, and have the teacher remove his stress or anxiety by giving him a tight hug when he comes into the classroom. Have the teacher try saying to him, “Thank you for coming.”

In addition, it is important to have solid relationship between you and the teacher. If you trust the teacher, open your heart and communicate with him or her. Your son will also open his heart to the teacher. After his lesson, give him confidence by letting the teacher praise what activities he was able to do. Accept and praise your son.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 1 year 3 months old. She can walk well. I have tried to read as many picture books as possible to her since she was born. However, she doesn’t listen to me when she looks at books. To keep her from getting distracted by something else, I put away all toys, don’t play a CD, and begin reading in a quiet place with her sitting on my knees. However, she only stays for a minute. It is difficult for her to stay seated. Do you have any good suggestions?

【Ａ】 One-year-old children are interested in various things, and cannot concentrate on any one thing because they gradually start to walk and move about freely. Now, she is in this stage. Don’t read a book to her for a long time, but read it as if you were telling her a short story. Even if she listens to you seriously, only gradually show her the book or read it. It will become a habit, and she will gradually start concentrating on listening to you. You should choose a picture book that focuses on words, with a short story and colorful pictures that give some sort of intellectual stimulus. Don’t just read the book. Try paraphrasing it and tell your daughter the story in your words. If you keep up this habit everyday, her interest will develop and she will grow into a child who likes picture books.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 2 years old and our only child. She can only concentrate on one thing (playing) for five minutes. She does not seem to be in a bad mood, but when she can’t build with blocks or do her puzzle as she expects, she scatters the pieces as if she was irritated. In the future when she has to study, will she be able to sit on a chair properly?

【Ａ】 Five minutes is about the time that children can keep their concentration. In Shichida lessons, the activities are changed about every 5 minutes. Using this curriculum, children can concentrate on all activities, and do about 10 to 13 activities per lesson.

When you lead your daughter in activities at home, you should do something similar. When she is able to concentrate on one activity for about 5 minutes, you should praise her and move on to the next activity. It is important to do content rich activities using the proper pace.

【Ｑ】 My oldest son is 5 years 7 months old. He has too much pride. When he cannot ride his bicycle even after practicing, he says, “It’s the bicycle’s fault.” When things do not work as he expects, he takes it out on someone or the objects around him. This is his personality. He asks me to play cards everyday because I lose on purpose. How should I raise him to be a patient child?

【Ａ】 He has too much pride and hates to lose. This means that he has self-esteem and a desire to improve himself. In the future, you should guide him to feel not that he is “winning against someone” but that he is “beating himself”.

To children his age, a game is a place where they can learn or experience various things. Especially, in card games that they play with other people, they can learn that sometimes they win, and sometimes they lose. They can also learn how to control their feelings or the importance of following the rules and playing fair. In addition, they can improve their communication skill. If they can do these things, they will be able to enjoy games with patience, which will have positive effects on the other things. Please consider these things and adjust the strength you use to play game. When he wins, praise him. As he keeps enjoying playing, he will be able to evenly match you in card games. He will learn various things such as patience.

【Ｑ】 My youngest daughter is 2 years 9 months old. She cannot go to sleep easily, and she usually goes to bed after midnight, because she cannot form daily life rhythms. She has 2 brothers. One is a junior high school student, and the other is an elementary school student. Both my husband and I have jobs. Each of her family member’s daily schedule is different and I think that it has a bad effect on her…

【Ａ】 In order to make her body healthy and strong, it is important for her to go to bed and fall asleep early. First, try waking her up 5 minutes earlier in the morning. Build on this so she is able to get up at 6 o’clock instead of 7 o’clock. She will fall asleep at night if you wake her up early at the same time every morning. If you let her sleep too much in the afternoon, she will stay up later. Try adjusting the time of her naps. She will be able to fall asleep earlier and sleep soundly during the night. Also, if she cannot digest the food she ate before going to bed, it will stimulate her stomach, and sometimes she will not be able to sleep. Please be careful about her eating habit rhythms as well.

For the times that she is still unable to get to sleep, please try to make her bedtime regular and guide her so that she can fall asleep at the same time everyday. Have her stay in bed and help her fall asleep by telling her a story.

In addition, help her fall asleep naturally by having her soak in a lukewarm bath or drinking alkali ion water just before bed. Be careful not let her play anything exciting right before bed either.

Life rhythms have a big effect on the growth of children’s minds and bodies. Please place importance on these rhythms.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 1 year 1 month old. She often cries at night. Sometimes I lose sleep as well. I am still breastfeeding her a little. Do you have any suggestions of ways to stop her crying at night? My older son will be 4 years old soon and he does not cry at night.

【Ａ】 There are many reasons children cry at night. Some children have bad dreams because of the stimulation they received in the daytime, such as hot or cold, and cry in the night. Children your daughter’s age sometimes cry because they are gaining knowledge gradually and developing their feelings, coming to understand various things. If she wakes up crying, it will cause you to lose sleep. However, when she wakes up, you should not nurse her. Try to help her fall asleep as naturally as possible by patting or stroking her body gently.

Additionally, try the following things to help your daughter sleep soundly. Have her soak in a lukewarm bath before sleeping or take a drink of water (water gives our brain a break and helps us fall asleep). Also, adjust her clothes according to the environment, and be careful not to give her too much sugar or fruit. In addition, calm her down by having her spend a quiet hour before sleeping or help her digest what she ate by increasing the amount of her physical activity during the daytime. It is also good to give your daughter positive suggestions in Five-Minute Suggestions such as, “You can sleep soundly until morning, and you will wake up feeling great.” After the phase she is in now, she will not cry at night. Please don’t worry about it too much and wait for her to grow.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 2 years 2 months old. I am worried that her life rhythms are in disarray. It is difficult to correct them. Sometimes she gets up at 8 o’clock, and sometimes she gets up at noon. The earliest time she falls asleep is 10 o’clock at night, and the latest is 3 o’clock in the morning. After she wakes up, she naps. If she goes for a walk after her nap, she will fall asleep at about 8 o’clock at night because she is tired. However, after about 2 hours, she wakes up again. What should I do so that she starts going to bed and getting up early? If I force her to get up, it will be a worse pattern because she will nap twice. It is difficult to help her form habits.

【Ａ】 The cause of her life rhythm disorder is her napping. It is absolutely necessary for 2-year-old children to nap. However, it is natural for them to be unable to sleep at night if you let them sleep for a long time. Day and night will switch, and your daughter will sleep so much in the daytime that she will not sleep much at night. She will get into a life pattern opposite from normal. In order to create a rhythm for her of going to bed and getting up early, the key is to have her get into the habit of sleeping soundly at night. In order to have her sleep soundly at night, you should have her play outside as much as possible during the daytime and have her use up her energy. By doing this, she will be able to sleep soundly. She will not wake up immediately. Even if she goes to bed at 8 o’clock at night, she will be able to sleep soundly until morning. It is important to let her play outside until she is satisfied. You can change her life rhythms by helping her create play habits. Understand that the basis of creating rhythms is playing in the daytime, and trying to get her to use all her energy. Also, try to wake her up early in the morning. Wake her up slightly earlier each day so that she is able to wake up at the time you wish. Life style conditions are different depending on the house, but if your daughter continues getting up early, she will fall asleep earlier at night. Stop her habit of napping twice in the daytime, letting her nap only once. Have her nap for 1 or 2 hours between the hours of 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock. If you make efforts in this way, her life rhythms will change naturally.

【Ｑ】 My son is 2 years 7 months old. I think his ideal waking time is from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (He naps from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.), but actually, he gets up at about 8 a.m. and goes to bed at 10:30 p.m. I wonder if this is good for him. It may be because my husband comes home late (about 9 p.m.).

【Ａ】 Your son should go to bed a little earlier. In order to correct his life rhythm, gradually limit his naptime. The ideal time for napping is less than 2 hours between 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. If you change the air or give him good water such as alkali ion water, he will easily wake up. If his nap is long, he will go to bed later. You should have him nap earlier or make his naptime shorter. Because it is difficult to make his naptime short all at once, it is ok to slowly change his rhythm, making the time shorter while you watch his condition. Remember to change your son’s rhythm within a scope that is reasonable.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 5 years old. She does not easily wake up in the morning by herself.

I want her to go to bed by 8:30 p.m. and get up at 6 a.m., but even if I set an alarm clock for six, she stops it and keeps sleeping. If I let her sleep, she cannot do activities in the morning.

【Ａ】 If she naps too much, goes to bed late, or does not sleep deeply, she will not wake up easily. Have her soak in a warm bath for a while before going to bed, and give her good water (ex. alkali ion water) after she takes her bath so that she will sleep soundly. Then, if you stop her naps, she will go to bed earlier.

On the other hand, when it is time for her to get up, guide her so that she can do so comfortably by opening the curtains or playing CDs. It is also good to do Five-Minute Suggestions. After giving her clear suggestions of love and oneness, please give her suggestions like “You can sleep soundly until morning and wake up easily.” If you work with her gradually, and begin with what she can do, she will be able to get up early. Also, regarding her activities, make a rough daily schedule. If you correct her life rhythms, and do a good job of including her activities in her rhythms, she will be able to continue doing activities without difficulty.

【Ｑ】 My daughter will be 4 and a half years old soon. She has not needed a diaper in the daytime since she turned 2. But she still needs one at night. I worry about her because she will soon turn 5.

【Ａ】 Children do not stop urinating at night just because they are toilet trained. As their body functions start to work correctly alongside their growth, they will not urinate while they sleep. Don’t think about the fact that she is already 5 years old, but rather that she is still 5 years old. Before you put her to bed take her to the bathroom and avoid giving her liquids before she goes to bed. Also, give her suggestions before she goes to bed, “Then, ○○(her name), you are alright because you went to the bathroom. You can sleep soundly until morning without wetting the bed. If you have to use the bathroom, you will wake up and go to the bathroom.” If you think negatively, “She cannot stop using diapers yet. Why can’t she do it? She’s going to wet the bed again tonight…”, your negative feelings will be conveyed to her. This is not good. You should believe in your daughter and do Five-Minute Suggestions.

【Ｑ】 My son is 4 years old. These days, once he gets absorbed in something, he does not do what he needs to do. Apparently, he can hear my voice, but he ignores me. This troubles me. He goes to the bathroom only when he cannot stand it anymore and often slightly wets his underpants. I am worried because he cannot easily switch from playtime to mealtime or use the bathroom when he is absorbed in playing or reading a book.

【Ａ】　Your son is absorbed in his favorite things because he gains a lot of wisdom from them. Communicate with him kindly and trust him. At first, watch him seriously to see what he is absorbed by and in what sort of situation. He is doing what he loves and if you watch when he is absorbed in something, it is possible to see a different side of your son.

In order to help him listen to you, it is important to promise something in advance. Then, tell him about the importance of promises by saying to him, “Let’s keep a promise. When you pretend not to hear my voice even when I speak to you, I feel very sad. Let’s do ○○ because you promised to do it.” If he does not listen to you in spite of these promises, say the opposite words to what you mean, such as “You don’t have to do it. I will clean everything up.”

Also, talk to your son, bringing up his feelings, for example, “○○, your underpants aren’t wet are they?”, “What time is it now? It’s about time to go to the bathroom,” or “I have to go to the bathroom, too. Let’s go together.”

【Ｑ】 I am thinking of starting my son’s toilet training because he turned 1 year old. I have him sit on a child’s potty or the toilet seat, but he hates to sit on them. However, before he gets in the bath, he pees. I wonder if I should praise or scold him. What should I do?

【Ａ】 If your son can urinate in a child’s potty or on the toilet well from the beginning, it is just a coincidence. Even if you force him to do this when he has never tried it before, it is natural for him not to be able to do it. Have him make a habit of urinating before taking a bath.

Even when your son urinates in places other than the potty or toilet, teach him about what he is doing, for example, “You peed.” Will you scold him because of the place he urinated in? Or will you view it as a chance to teach him about his bodily functions? This will have a large effect on his toilet training later. Watch him in the beginning, and when he seems like he has to urinate, lead him to do so on a child’s potty or toilet seat. In this way, he will be able to do it. When he is able to, please praise him sincerely.

【Ｑ】 My son is 3 years 3 months old. He still wears a diaper. On his 2^nd birthday, since he promised to urinate in the bathroom, he has done so. Since that time, he has stopped using diapers, prepared his potty and peed by himself. However, since I started to have him try the same with bowel movements, he has hated going to the bathroom. While I am waiting for him to want to do it by himself, one year has passed. What should I do?

【Ａ】 Motivate his toilet training by focusing on the times when he is able to use the bathroom. Toilet training is related to your son’s self-awareness as well as his body’s growth and ability to resist urination. He seems to be able to understand urination or having a bowel movement because he was able to do them before. So he is in the process of development. Focus on the times he can do use the bathroom, and motivate him to do it by being pleased and praising him sincerely when he tells you that he peed, for example, say to him, “That came out well didn’t it?” or “You were able to urinate well.” Then, have him make a habit of using the bathroom. For example, have him go to the bathroom after meals or before leaving home. Continue making requests to him when he is in a good mood.

Also, do Five-Minute Suggestions. First, you should give him key suggestions like, “○○, you are sleeping now, but someplace is awake in your brain. So, you can understand what I say.” Then, give him sincere relief by conveying your love to him, “○○, I love you so much.” After conveying your love sincerely, you should give him positive suggestions. For example, you should say, “○○, you can tell me that you have to use the bathroom before your urinate,” or “You can urinate and have a bowel movement in the bathroom.” You should talk to him as you usually do. Give him these suggestions in a way that is easy for him to understand, and say them to him in an assertive tone, “○○, you can do it,” “You are doing it,” or “You did it.” Do these activities while believing that your son is capable of becoming toilet trained.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 4 years old. When we take a bath, I always tell her about how to wash or rinse off her body, but she always plays, and she cannot do it effectively. When I told her, “I’m not going to say anything about washing your body because I have told you many times,” she cried. What should I do?

【Ａ】 Considering that your daughter is 4 years old, probably she thinks bath time is fun because she takes it with you and because she is happy when you wash her. For a while, please remember that she is in a growth process in which she can gradually do things for herself. Probably, it is difficult for her to learn how to wash and rinse off her body all at once. At first, have her wash different parts of her body one by one. If she can do it well, praise her sincerely. If it is hard for her to wash her whole body, it is ok for her to begin washing a part that she can wash easily like her hands or her feet. It is also good to make a chart to record what she is able to wash. For example, “I can wash my hands.” “I can wash my feet.” “I can rinse my body completely.” When she can do it, put a sticker on the chart. If you guide her to be able to do things gradually, while praising what she can do well, she will say to you, “I can already do it by myself!”

【Ｑ】 My son is 7 months old. Recently, when we drive, he seems bored when he sits in his car seat, and he begins crying immediately. I wonder how I should deal with it.

【Ａ】 Your son is in a phase where he really wants to move about freely so he probably feels restricted by his car seat. However, you must discipline him seriously, and even if he cries, you must make him endure the experience. Just hearing their mother’s voice can relieve children. Try to do this or some of the following things. You can sing children’s songs using CDs. You can read a picture book, record it, and then play it in the car for him. You can attach his favorite stuffed animal to his car seat. You can put some toys that make sounds near him.

【Ｑ】 My daughter will be 2 years old soon. She cannot be apart from me and play like at the park. Even at home, she asks me to hold her. I did Five-Minute Suggestions, but I cannot see any clear results. Maybe I am doing something wrong. What should I do so that she can play apart from me?

【Ａ】 Children at her age cannot immediately leave their mothers and play yet. The age when children are able to play with their friends is from around 4 years old. There are also differences among individuals. At first, begin by playing with her at the park. Then, gradually start playing with her near other children. Children’s play follows these steps:

• A child does not play with other children, and plays what he/she likes by himself/herself.
• A child can watch other children playing while they are near a person they feel safe with.
• A child can play in a group, with each child playing something different.
• A child can play in a group while following rules and cooperating with other children.

In order to smoothly move into group play, communicate with your daughter as much as possible. When she asks you hold her, please do so as much as you can. If you accept her and she is relieved, she will not come to ask you to do it. In Five-Minute Suggestions, after giving her key and love suggestions, speak to her patiently and as clearly as possible, “You can play with ○○(her friend’s name) in the park.”

【Ｑ】 I worry that my son always plays alone for long periods of time. How long should he play alone in a day?

【Ａ】 Bringing up a child to be able to play alone for 20 minutes to 30 minutes a day is a goal in child-rearing. When he concentrates on playing alone, watch him kindly without interrupting him. If he plays for too long, speak to him sometimes and join in his games. The relationship between parents and children is the basis of communication and sociability. It is important to say many words to your son.

【Ｑ】 My second child (my first daughter) was just born. We longed for her. Since my first child was born, about 6 years passed. My son (my first child) had all our love to himself because he was our only child. However, since my daughter was born, apparently my husband’s interest has moved from him to her, and my husband has been strict with him. (My husband often slaps him…) I give my son priority, convey my love to him, and tell him that my husband values him. However, I worry about my son because I see that my husband is strict with him and he cries. I put the book “Bringing up Children’s Dreams” near my husband and he reads it. However, he cannot easily change. He seems be frustrated at his job.

【Ａ】 Six years have passed since your first child was born and now you have a daughter so your husband must treasure her. His job seems to be hard and she is probably the person who removes his stress. At first, please understand, love, and respect your husband. If you have negative feelings about your husband, he can feel them. If you change your view, your husband will change. If your husband changes, I am sure that his way of communicating with your son will change.

Also, you already tell your husband about the importance of raising your children. When you do this, try imaging. If you imagine that your husband is kind and friendly toward your son, he will feel the waves of the image and try to change, as real as you imagined.

【Ｑ】 I have 2 daughters: one is 6 years old, the other is 10 months old. Until my second daughter was born, I thought that my first daughter was so cute and I wanted to develop her good points. When I scolded her, I never did so loudly. However, since my second daughter was born, I have started to care about my first daughter’s faults, don’t think that she is “cute”, and hate to be touched by her. Now, my feelings are improving a little. However, I hug her as if it were my duty. What should I do so that I can hug her again with my love?

【Ａ】 The daughter “you felt was cute” and the daughter “you can’t feel is cute” are the same person. She never changed. Please realize that the cause of the problem is within you. Even if you feel as if hugging her is your duty, it is ok. Please hug her. Please say to her several times a day, “○○(her name), I love you so much. Thank you for being born to me!” When she wakes up, hug her and say with a smile, “You woke up cheerfully. ○○, you are so cute.” No matter how you feel about her faults, never look at them. Please praise and accept her good points. Then, tell her about her good points as you hug her. In this way, your feelings will change, and your daughter’s smile will appear.

【Ｑ】 My older daughter (4 years 11 months old) was independent early on. I had no difficulty in bringing her up because she was able to do most things from the time she was 2 years old. However, since I became pregnant with my younger child (she was 3 years 10 months old), she has done nothing. When she comes back from the bathroom, she says to me, “Put my underpants on.” When she eats, she says to me, “Feed me.” She asks me to do everything. Now that a year has passed, I want her to do a few things. What should I do? She still wears a diaper at night.

【Ａ】 I am sure that your older daughter is a person who tries harder and has more independent ability than some others because she was able to do various things from the age of 2. However, she has probably reverted back to infant behaviors because of your second child. She thinks subconsciously that she can take back your love and that you will focus on her if she behaves like a baby.

If you satisfy her with your love, her body and mind (soul) will be able to develop. Satisfy her with your love by feeling what she feels; say to her, “I’m sorry that I make you feel lonely. I love you so much,” and give her a tight hug for 8 seconds. If you give her your love again by doing this many times a day, she will be able to do what she used to by herself. Also, she will be able to grow up steadily.

【Ｑ】 I have 2 children: one in the 3^rd grade (girl), and the other is in kindergarten (boy). I understand that it is bad to feel that my son is cuter than my daughter. However, I feel this way. My daughter sometimes seems to see through my feelings and tells me. I have no memory of my mother cherishing me as her cutest child (I have 3 sisters). I don’t want my daughter to feel the same things I did…

【Ａ】 Parents often get angry with and scold their older child more than their younger child, because they rely on the older child or they think that the older child should understand more than the younger. It is ok that you can communicate with your children according to their respective ages because there is a gap between them. It is important to hug and convey your love to each of your children. By doing this, your daughter’s anxiety will disappear. You should have plenty of physical contact with your son and accept his demands because he is still in kindergarten. You should rely on your daughter, ask her to help you, and praise what she is able to do. Never forget to praise and accept her, “I appreciate that you always help me. I trust you.” Create a trusting relationship between you and your daughter.

It is difficult to communicate with each child in the same way or with the same timing during the same phase. Treasure the time you have with each child and think about just that child. If you communicate with each of them according to their growth stage, you will be able to create a good relationship with your daughter.

【Ｑ】 I have 2 daughters: one is 4 years old, and the other is 1 year old. I feel that my younger daughter is cuter than my older one. My older daughter has had a terrible temper since she was born. I often hate to communicate with her because she cries often. I have difficulties communicating with her. However, I have no difficulties in bringing up my younger daughter because I learned about the Shichida Method, and did prenatal education with her. She can find things she enjoys by herself. I feel sincerely relieved by her.

【Ａ】 Many parents were not prepared to being up their oldest child and did so without any flexibility in their hearts. However, they bring up their younger child with plenty of patience and cherish that child. However, children are more sensitive to their parents’ feelings than parents expect. If you deny your older daughter’s desire to be loved, it is natural for her to react or cry. Now remember to give your older daughter priority as you raise her, even if you don’t think she is cuter than your younger child. If you change, she will go revert back to a natural, obedient girl. You will be able to smoothly accept her.

Please understand that you are irreplaceable to your daughter. This is the key to the solution of how to change your attitude and feelings. You should never believe that your daughter does not change. You should try to change yourself.

【Ｑ】 I have 2 children: one is a 6-year-old girl and the other is a 3-year-old boy. I buy only one set of toys because I want them to remember to share and get along. However, they always fight over the toys. Should I buy 2 sets of a toy? Also, my daughter often says to my son, “Unless you do ○○, I will not share this with you.” What she makes him do is never bad, only things like “finish eating” or “brush your teeth”. However, I mind it.

【Ａ】 Even if there are 2 sets of a toy, it will only increase the number of toys. If your children are bored of it, it will only occupy space. You should develop your children’s ability to share through their games. Buy toys suitable for their ages. When either of them wants to borrow a toy, the child needs to get the other’s permission. Teach them this rule. To get them to play together and share, you should give them a toy that they can play with in various ways like creating or building something, for example, interlocking plastic blocks or wooden building blocks. When they want to make something big, they will have to share with each other so that they can complete it because each child’s blocks will not be enough. At this time, they will learn to use something together in a friendly way.

Your daughter gives your son some conditions for his behavior. If you usually say to your children, “Unless you do ○○, I will not ×× ”, she may be imitating you. It is true that she is not saying something bad to him, but it is important to check how you communicate with your children and show them a good example.

【Ｑ】 These days, I am troubled by my 4-year-old daughter’s actions. When I try to give a piggyback to my younger son (1 year 3 months) in order to help him nap, my daughter finds the baby sling before I do. When I say to her, “Please let me borrow it,” she says to me, “No. Now, Pooh says that he wants to sleep.” Then she uses the sling to give her stuffed animal a piggyback. In addition, when I prepare the futon for my son to sleep on, she lies down on it before of him. She prevents me from doing things for him. I try to get him to sleep so that I can play with her while he is sleeping but she doesn’t understand. What should I say to her?

【Ａ】 Your daughter prevents you from doing things for your son because she is jealous of him. She wants you to communicate with her more. You think that you will communicate with her after you calm your son down. However, if you always do this, she will wonder strongly “Why does she do things for him before doing them for me?” At first, say to her, “I always give you my priority.” Then, say to her, “○○(his name) looks sleepy. After he falls asleep, I can play with you. So, can I have the sling to get him to fall asleep?” When you do anything, if you speak to your daughter first, and hug her a little, she will be satisfied. She will not prevent you from doing things for your son. Please convey your love to your daughter sincerely.

【Ｑ】 My first son (7 years old) learned to read letters because of the Shichida Method Education he had when he was 3 years old. My first daughter was born when he was 4 years old and I have not been able to read books to him. He has to read by himself. Also, when I try to read books to older daughter, my second daughter brings a book that she wants to read and continues crying until I read it to her, just as my first daughter used to do. Should I leave them and read books to my son?

【Ａ】 Use your time effectively or think about ways in which all of your children can enjoy reading. If your son goes to bed later than your daughters, why don’t you read books to him at night? Or if he gets up earlier than them, you can read to him first thing in the morning.

It is difficult to communicate with each of your children when you read books. When you have no time to read, even if you only have 5 minutes per child or you read one book per child, it is ok. Decide on the order of whom you will read to and read the books. We recommend using “picture story boards” because you can show all three children the book at once. Also, it is ok to just tell your children a story without using a book. It is also good for your son to read books to your daughters unless they dislike it.

【Ｑ】　My second child will be born soon. My first son is 5 years old. They will never go to the same elementary school because of the gap between them. When I keep having my children do activities in the future, what should I be careful of or what is a good way to do activities with them?

【Ａ】 Have your son speak to or read a picture book to your second child. If you have him speak to your second child as an older brother, they will understand each other in their hearts. In addition, he will look forward your second child’s birth. While you are pregnant, do activities that he can do together with the second child. When you read a book to him, please read it as if you were trying to read to your second child. You should spend the time feeling that he and your second child are doing the activities together.

After your second child’s birth, have them do activities together that they can, and when they cannot, have them take turns or work separately. You should make rules for doing activities. You can flash cards, read books, and play CDs of music or language for them at the same time. The contents of the cards or books should be what each child wants to do or is interested in. When you do activities that need to be changed depending on the child’s age, like worksheets, do them while one of the children is sleeping or when another family member can take care of the other child. You will need to think of ways to arrange their activities.

【Ｑ】 I have 2 sons: one is older, and the other is younger, in kindergarten. Basically, they get along. However, when I watch them do worksheets or phonics drills, both of them try to attract my attention. I often feel that I should have my children do worksheets one-on-one. When I watch my older son, having my younger son wait his turn, my older son will complete the worksheet slowly on purpose, and my younger son cannot wait for his turn and gets angry…I feel so stressed because I have them do the worksheets in the limited time we have before they go to kindergarten. Should I divide the time into 2 parts, for example, one in the morning and the other at night?

【Ａ】 It must be difficult sometimes to have your sons do activities at once because there are 2 of them, but keep having them learn in the morning. Because they get along well, they care about what the other is doing or try to draw your attention away from the other. The ideal style of doing activities is one-on-one, but if it is difficult to do so, you should decide on an amount of time for each son before beginning the worksheets. Your oldest son should go first. Have your son ask any questions immediately if he has them, and deal with each son seriously. They will be conscious of the time, and will learn patience because they will know the allotted time. However, if you do this and still have difficulties, you can divide up the time you do activities as you mentioned.

【Ｑ】 I have 2 sons: one is 4 years old, and the other is 3 years old. My younger son is very clever but my older is not good at expressing himself. Additionally, my older son hates when his younger brother outdoes him. I am worried about how to do activities with my older son. I want to do their activities separately, but my home environment does not make this possible. Now, I do activities with them at the same time. Do you have any suggestions for how to do activities focused on my older son without upsetting my younger son?

【Ａ】 Even if you were an expert at child rearing, you would have difficulties doing simultaneous activities with your children. Try to create an environment in which you can, even for a short time, watch each son. For example, while your husband takes care of your younger son, you can do activities with your older son. Or perhaps one of your neighbors could look after your children separately for 30 minutes each. Please think of various ways that you can arrange your sons’ activities.

In addition, it is good to make each activity a habit and part of your sons’ daily rhythms. For example, you can guide them in activities by saying to them, “It’s your older brother’s turn.” “It’s ○○(your son’s name) turn now.” After finishing your older son’s activities, you should satisfy him by praising him sincerely. Next, do activities with your younger son. He will understand that you communicate with him after you finish your older son’s activities; when they are relaxed, both of them will be able to do activities. You may be having difficulties with the activities because you say, “my home environment does not make ____ possible.” However, you do not have to bring up your children by yourself. Ask other family members or your friends for their help and positively imagine activities as you carry them out with your sons.

【Ｑ】　My younger daughter is 4 months old. When I have my older son do Shichida Method activities, if my younger child cries, I have to stop what we are doing. My older child is 3 years old and says, “Oh, she is crying. Please nurse her. I will wait for you.” However, even when we restart the activities, they do not go well because my son has lost his concentration. In this case, what should I do?

【Ａ】 Your older child is very kind. Treasure his kindness and the fact that he waits until you finish taking care of your daughter. When you finish with your daughter, praise your son for waiting for you and his kindness by saying to him, “You said to me, ‘GO take care of her,’ so she is much happier now. Thank you very much.” You will be able to satisfy your son and create a relationship with him. If he trusts you and improves his relationship with you, he will be to smoothly receive what you are working on and he will understand quickly. This will lead to good results.

【Ｑ】 I have 3 children: a 3-year-old boy, a 2-year-old boy, and a 1-year-old girl. I want to make my first son’s activities much more solid, but I can do this well. I am strict with him sometimes because I want him to be a good older brother. This is why he often rebels against me. For example, when things do not go as he expects, he often slaps his siblings or cries terribly. How should I communicate with him?

【Ａ】 When raising siblings, you should give priority to your first son and make his activities fulfilling. He is often forced to endure things “because he is the older brother”, however, this leads to jealousy of his siblings, his rebelling against you and his lack of ability to listen to you. Some parents tend to feel sorry for their other children because they force them to endure and do not cherish them. However, younger siblings will learn from their older brother. They will also learn naturally to respect their elders by allowing their older brother to take priority.

Ask your eldest son to help you with something easy. After he finishes it, praise him sincerely. When you ask him to help, you will be able to naturally create ways to praise him. In addition, please convey your love to your son by giving him tight hugs for 8 seconds. He will be satisfied. When you give him priority on the things you are working on and sincerely convey your love to him, your problems will be solved. Then, he will be able to obediently listen to you and show kindness toward his siblings. Please realize that there the sources of the problems are things in his mind that are not yet satisfied. If your son grows kinder, everything will be all right. It is important to give him your priority.

【Ｑ】 My younger child’s (a 3-year-old boy) development is delayed. Our doctor says that he has mental disability. I have not told my daughter (5 years old) about it but she seems to realize that he is a little different. Is it ok to not tell her? (I imagine that my son will be able to catch up to other children in the future.)

【Ａ】　It is so hard to accept that your son has a mental disability, but when you accept your son, your older daughter will also be able to will communicate with him naturally. In order to help her be able to do so, it is important to look at your son’s good points, and to tell your daughter about them, for example, “○○(his name) is developing a little slowly but he is very kind.” All children are perfect. In addition, if parents encourage their children’s growth by doing activities with them, they will improve to 2 or 3 times their current abilities. The possibilities are infinite. In some cases, children who are handicapped grow up to be healthy through continued practice with the Shichida Method. Now those children rank first or second in their classrooms. These cases are not rare within the Shichida Method.

【Ｑ】 My 4^th grade son is mildly autistic (he can say some words but he cannot communicate with others) and my 5^th grade daughter has an impediment which makes it difficult for her to communicate with people. (The doctor has said that she has high-functioning autism.) I have great difficulty raising them. If I take care of either child, the other will be left alone. I continually face the dilemma in which I cannot communicate with them as I hope to. Even if they are minimal, I want to do effective activities with them. But what should I do so that the activities are effective for them at the same time?

【Ａ】 Focus on cards and picture-story boards. Think of activities that are suitable for each situation. Flash cards or picture-story cards are easy to do with your children at the same time. There are many easy activities that you can do with them together such as drawing or coloring activities or using intellectual educational toys. Search for activities that to some extent either of your children can do independently, while you help your other child smoothly do something.

Also, everyday you have to make space within your limited time for activities. Therefore you should not feel that you have to do the same activities for each child everyday. It is ok if you only have one-on-one time with each child every other day. In this case, let the child you are not working with do what he/she likes and take as much time as possible to do activities with your other child. While either of your children is sleeping, do activities with the other child. In this way, depending on the situation, make time for each of your children.

【Ｑ】 I use various Shichida teaching materials with my daughter. She is 4 years 3 months old. However, I do not feel that I can bring out her right brain abilities. I do not know what to do with her in the future. Please give me some advice.

【Ａ】 You should focus on 2 things during activities. One is having her imagine and the other is developing her right brain memorization. Regarding imaging, it is important to have your daughter meditate, do controlled breathing, image and reproduce what she saw in her image. In order to help her do these things, you should have her talk about what she has imagined or express it in a picture or written sentences.

In order to develop her memorization ability, do memorization games that use her imagination. After showing her 3 cards, turn them over. Guide her to say them correctly. Increase the number of cards to 5, 10, 15…have her then produce these things from her memory.

Because you did enough input, you will see how much she progresses when she does output activities. We recommend that you concentrate on playing cards during activities to develop her memorization. In this way, you will find that as she plays, she uses her right brain memorization and enjoys right brain activities.

【Ｑ】 My son is 5 years old. Since just before he turned 3 years old, he started attending a Shichida school and has done activities at home. I have done left-brain activities with him without the pre-lesson or image training for about 2 years. I feel that I have not yet been able to bring out his right brain abilities. Do I have enough time to bring out these abilities? What should I place priority on?

【Ａ】 Develop your son’s right brain aptitude by using a pre-lesson or memorization training. Right brain activities have no relationship with age. No matter how old he is you just have to have your son learn with his right brain in the same way. Learning with the right brain means using images. In order to have him use his images, activate his right brain by doing a pre-lesson (meditation, controlled breathing, positive suggestions, imaging) and creating a feeling of oneness between you and your son. Activities are different according to your child’s age; however, activities have no right or left brain distinction. There is a difference though between which brain children use when they do an activity. For example, if they are learning English, music, or exercise and priority is given to their right brain, these activities are for the right brain. If they learn these activities giving priority to the left brain, then these activities are for the left brain. Before you have your son learn something, you should begin by having him meditate, do controlled breathing and imaging. Then, have him start the activity.

In addition, you should have him do memorization training. If you have him remember the content of a book by having him read it many times (recite it), he will obtain “perfect memorization” in which he can remember the contents perfectly. After he remembers it to some extent, you should have him recite it rapidly. When he recites it rapidly, he will improve the quality of his brain and his ability to remember something perfectly. Rather than increasing the amount of what he should memorize, it is important to have him say what he memorized as rapidly as possible. In order to develop his right brain memorization, you should not place priority on providing your son with knowledge. It is more important to improve the quality of his brain. Repetition and rapid learning change the quality of memorization. Your son will be able to learn spontaneously. Please treasure activities that, through memorization training and the development of his imagination, increase your son’s right brain aptitude.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is the 1^st grade. She first encountered Shichida Method when she was almost 5 years old. She has no creativity because she did not receive a Shichida Method education from a young age. I worry about this. Even if I start the Shichida Method late, can I bring out her abilities? What should I be careful of and what kind of things should I do?

【Ａ】 It is never too late for a person to grow. How can we activate the right brain that everyone possesses? Even adults can activate their right brains so it will depend on your efforts. Activate your daughter’s right brain as you enjoy activities and continue them with patience. At first, activate her right brain by having her image and do ESP games (right brain’s 5 senses). Tie in photographic memory, speed-reading and dot activities. In this way, she will be able to easily obtain calculation skill and perfect pitch. Usually, we use our left brain. But when we think of or create something, we enter the consciousness of our right brains, and through relaxation, are able to see images. Then just as in the image, it is possible to improve our ability to create something. Our creativity also develops.

At first, you should focus on doing the pre-lesson well. This includes oneness, meditation, controlled breathing and positive suggestions. After these things, you should do image training. Then, move on to ESP or memorization games. The main principle in drawing out right brain abilities is enjoying activities. So begin with activities that she enjoys and patiently continue them.

【Ｑ】　I have a 4-year-old daughter. Since she was 3 and a half, she started saying that she plays with her 2 imaginary friends. She says that her friends live far away and that she will never allow us to meet them. I adapt myself to her story by saying “I see.” Sometimes I ask her questions about them. Is it okay to let her freely imagine?

【Ａ】 Your daughter’s friends are evidence that she can bring out her right brain abilities. Listen to her without denying her story. It doesn’t matter that she has imaginary friends. It is well known that when some geniuses were infants they saw invisible people. Your daughter is displaying the same behavior as some geniuses did when they were infants.

When children can bring out their right brain abilities and imagine, have them actually use their images everyday. For example, before a swimming competition, have your daughter practice swimming only after having her imagine. Say to her, “You can become a dolphin and swim smoothly. You can get your best time.” When she cannot complete a puzzle well, you should have her image, saying to her, “It’s alright. Next time you will complete it.” If she imagines herself doing something well, and then actually does it, she will be able to achieve the results she imagined. The right brain is called the image brain. Accept her imagination and use it effectively. Get interested in her stories and listen to them without denying them. Tell her that her imaginary friends’ will help her when she is sick or troubled.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is 3 years 3 months old. Two weeks ago, she made an imaginary friend, “Eriko-chan”. She talks to her imaginary friend sometimes. I am quiet while she is taking with her imaginary friend because she scolds me if I interrupt her, “Now, I’m talking to Eriko-chan!” Is it okay to let her imagine?

【Ａ】 Your daughter seems to have a highly developed imagination. She is using her imagination and entering her imaginary world. It is wonderful to develop your daughter’s abundant imagination and her ability to imagine well. Never think about this negatively. If you hold a negative image of your daughter, she will feel this image and it will have bad effects on her. You should never have a negative image of your daughter but instead, enrich her image sometimes by joining in her story.

However, make a promise with her. The promise is that she should talk with her imaginary friend only at home. As time goes by, she will understand and be able to distinguish between the places where she can talk with her imaginary friend. You should think about her in a positive way such as, “She is growing up to be a child with an abundant imagination.”

【Ｑ】 My oldest son (5 years old, final year in kindergarten, born in January) loves to pretend. However, recently, his teacher said to me, “He should come back to the real world sometimes.” During this summer holiday, there was a camp for children. However, I heard that he was always missing when the children had to gather together. When I asked him about it, he said, “I wanted to get a drink of water. I went to see ○○.” I also heard that he talked with his doll when it was bedtime. His friends often warn him. However, I am worried about him because he will enter elementary school next year.

【Ａ】 Teach your son about the importance of promises using both images and theory. Use pretending games effectively. For example, pretend you are at a camp and that, for example, “We promised to gather when the bell rang, but ○○(his name) went to look at a cicada. Everyone is worried about you because you didn’t come. It will be time to leave soon.” Say to him clearly, “Even if only one child is late, everyone will be troubled because they will all be late. Everyone will worry about you and will look for you.”

Have him imagine positively that everyone praises him. Help your son understand, using theory and images, the importance of keeping promises and cooperating with people.

【Ｑ】 I started image training with my daughter (3 years 10 months) but when I ask her, “What do you think is in the box?”, she immediately says, “I don’t know.” I try to help her imagine by saying, “Anything is ok. Let’s imagine,” but she says she can’t. Even when she is able to imagine an apple, her image is normal, for example a red apple is “sweet” and a green apple is “sour”. I think I should accept her as she is but I wonder if it is possible for her to imagine something more childlike or amazing. Can’t I develop her ability to imagine something interesting?

【Ａ】 Try going back to the basics and do a clear pre-lesson with her. In order to help lead her to be able to imagine, begin by transforming her brain waves into alpha waves. After conveying your love to her and a sense of oneness with her through the pre-lesson (meditation and controlled breathing), and once she is relaxed enough, help her enjoy imagining by telling her a story. For example, “You can see a butterfly. The butterfly is flitting about. The butterfly is flying away.”

Also, after showing her a picture book or photo, if you guide her in imagining, you can tell her a detailed story. Write down the contents of what you want her to reproduce after imagining and while she is imagining, tell them to her.

【Ｑ】 My 3-year-old son has talked about his imaginary cat for a few months. However, he seems to truly see it because he says reasonable things whenever I ask him about it. He says it always stays with him and protects him. I am troubled by how to relate to him.

【Ａ】 Children often say these types of things when they are at a right brain age. The things children see in their images, like your son’s cat, are “counselors in the head.” Within his image, the cat truly exists.

Among children who have imaginary friends, some say that their friends tell them the answers they don’t know on kanji [Chinese character] tests or give them advice. You do not have to worry about your son because his imaginary friend’s mind is pure. Contrary to your worries, his cat is evidence that he can use his right brain naturally. Believe completely in your son’s right brain abilities. Have him use his imagination in various situations. Tell your son that if he asks the cat to cure him when he has a cold, it will cure him quickly.

【Ｑ】 I lead my son during image training to imagine that he is a baby, back in my womb. But he has started to hate doing so. Does he hate imagining this situation? Or is there another reason?

【Ａ】 Basically, for children, the memory of their mother’s womb should be a very good and comfortable one. However, the reason why your son hates to imagine this may be that he does not clearly feel your love. More than anything, you need to treasure your son sincerely and as you give him tight hugs, convey positive images into his subconscious. Tell him that you think he is your treasure by doing Five-Minute-Suggestions. If you can convey your love to him, and the bonds between you get stronger, your son will be able to enjoy imagining that he is an unborn baby again.

【Ｑ】 I have 3-year-old twins: one is a boy and the other is a girl. I have never done serious image training with them. I think that it is about time to start but it is difficult to do it with them at the same time…I cannot easily do it for each child. What should I do?

【Ａ】 It is not as easy as you might imagine to do activities with siblings. If you don’t have time for each child separately, think of ways in which they can enjoy doing activities together. There are various ways to do image training and you should begin with activities that your children can enjoy doing together. First, start with imitation or imagination games. Children love games in which they can decide on various settings or can be various characters. These games are good right brain training.

For example, have your children move their bodies freely to music or lead them to imitate a butterfly by saying, “Look, a butterfly is flying. Let’s imitate it.” Your children will join in the game. When you show them that you are pleased with them, their interests will develop. At first, you should just enjoy imagination games. Then, if they are able to follow these, you should talk with them further, “Look! Over there is a beautiful flowerbed. The flowers smell very good.” Play games without having your children think too seriously. In addition to having them move their bodies, image training can also be having your children freely draw pictures. It is also good to have them freely create something using the objects around them.

【Ｑ】 I cannot tell stories to my daughter well. I am not good at imagining. But she seems to love imagining so much. She often enters her imaginary world and plays alone. I join her games sometimes when she invites me to play. At these times, she always takes the lead. Is this ok?

【Ａ】 It is ok to proceed with image training keeping your daughter as the focus. If you are not good at imagining, alter your technique by using picture books and having her join the story or use small items, play music CDs or childrens’ songs, or use perfume. She will be able to enter imaginary worlds more easily.

Image play is a type of pretending game. Even if you cannot see or hear, you only have to pretend to see or hear. In order to make it more real, add many types of stimuli into the images such as color, shape, or things the five senses utilize (sight, hearing, feeling, taste, smell). In order for your daughter to be able to easily imagine things, you should give her suggestions like, “You can see ○○. You can hear ○○. It tastes like ○○. It smells like ○○.” You can bring out the imagination that she has had since birth by having her use her five senses. Develop her image by asking her various questions about it like, “What can you see? Then, what happened? Where is it?” If she can write or draw, have her draw a picture of her image or write a story about it. She will enjoy drawing her image and the story will create a wonderful image composition.

Also, you should not have her continue imagining only when you are playing, but also lead her to be able to use images in her real life. When she does anything, you should have her first imagine that she has achieved it. For example, if she is playing the piano, have her imagine that she is playing well.

【Ｑ】 Only 3 months have passed since I started using the Shichida Method at home. Now, as a part of my children’s routine we do English, flash dot and picture cards and POP Kids. They enjoy these things as part of their daily games. I do not do image training with my children because my older child is 3 years old and my younger child is 1. Please tell me how to do image training with children these ages.

【Ａ】　You should try to do image training with your children everyday. It may be difficult for them to do image training together because one child is 3 years old and the other is 1 year.

There are 3 basic types of image training:

①Image exercises in which children move their body to music and imagine that they are some type of animal

②Making up a story or changing the main character of a famous story to one of your children and telling a fictional story

③After image training using, for example, an orange card.

You only have to do one of these types of training. Try beginning with what your children are able to do, depending on their condition that day. Controlled breathing is a secret to image training. Three-year-old children can do controlled breathing. Before having your older child imagine, have him or her practice controlled breathing (Balloon Breathing) so he or she can exhale as long as possible and breathe in as well. With your younger child, focus on image exercises.

Also, a sense of oneness between parents and children is very important to image training. Before doing activities, communicate with your children through your heart by holding them in your arms and making physical contact with them.

【Ｑ】 I do after image training with my elementary school aged daughter, but we cannot easily get to the step in which we can see the correct color of the afterimage. She seems to dislike the training a little because she cannot sense her progress. What should I do?

【Ａ】 Since she cannot easily see an afterimage in the correct color and is repeating the same thing, your daughter has become bored. It is important to guide her to be able to see the correct color afterimage, but it is also important for her to be able to keep the image for a long time. At first, help her keep the afterimage she sees. It is also good to time how long this is. Then, have her image that the circle changes into another color or shape. Even if she still sees an afterimage in the complementary color, it is ok. In this way, even if the color of her afterimage is a complementary color, you can develop her imagination.

Then, you should make a fun story. Any story is ok. For example, if she can see an orange afterimage, you can make a story like, “The number of orange dots increases and they become tangerines. Ears, eyes, noses, mouths, arms and feet grow out of the tangerines. Then they go on a trip to various towns…” She can join in making the story if you ask her some questions, “What kind of place is it? What do you see around you,” etc. and she will enjoy the activity. In image training, you do not have to use the orange card all the time. Mix it in with other activities as well.

【Ｑ】 After image training, I ask my son what he has seen in his image, but he is unable to explain it well.

【Ａ】 Even if children can imagine various things, if they have a small vocabulary or they haven’t developed their self-expression, sometimes they cannot explain their images well. Parents then think that children can only see ordinary images. You should not do only image training with your son but also read various books to him. He will gain vocabulary and expressive ability and will be able to explain his images well.

Also, he can draw a picture of the image that you and he imagine together. Drawing a picture makes images visible. You can check to see what he imagines.

【Ｑ】 I recently became a new mother. I heard that we should do image training with children from the time they are 0 or 1 year old. How should I do this?

【Ａ】 At first, hold your baby in your arms. It is necessary for babies to feel a sense of oneness with their mother.

Babies can understand their mother’s feelings easily. As you hold your baby, you should do a pre-lesson (meditation, controlled breathing, suggestions) before doing image training. Your brain waves will synchronize with your baby’s and their ability to resonant will develop. You can convey your image to your baby by then doing image training.

【Ｑ】 Recently, even if I say to my 5-year-old daughter, “Let’s imagine that you become a tiny person and jump into a book,” she says, “That’s impossible, isn’t it?” She is negative about imagining. What should I do?

【Ａ】　Try to do what she is interested in like playing guessing or imagination games. Probably, her left brain is developing smoothly. Change the contents of the image training according to your daughter’s growth and interests. Guessing games are suitable for children about five years old. Put something in a box and have her guess what it is. At the time, lead her to easily imagine by saying to her, “Let’s put on glasses that let you see anything and look through the box.” She may also enjoy imagining becoming her favorite character or hero. Finally, she will enjoy playing games in which you pretend to be at school or a restaurant and imagine that she is a teacher, student or chef.

Say to her, “Let’s do our ritual before imagining,” and do the pre-lesson including meditation, controlled breathing and suggestions. During the activity it is important to tell her that she can be anything through imagining and that it is easy to imagine.

【Ｑ】 I do image training with my son because I want him to be able to image and bring out his right brain abilities. However, whenever he imagines that he becomes a tiny person, the tiny person changes into Ultra Man, a character he loves. Image training ends up being an imaginary game of Ultra Man. Is this ok?

【Ａ】 Having children pretend to become or play something they like is the most natural type of image work to lead children in. Use what your son likes and have him imagine freely. You should develop his image by adding some words to his images. Don’t have his game end up just being a pretending game, but greatly develop his imagination and help it lead to great right brain abilities. Have him close his eyes and say to him that he can see any image he wants to see.

For example, if he loves running, have him imagine that he becomes Ultra Man and can run faster than a monster. If he loves music, have him imagine that Ultra Man sings a song and everyone claps for him. Actually, you only have to use his image. It is also good to have him imagine that he becomes a tiny Ultra Man and enters someone’s body. Have him imagine that he explores or cures someplace bad in that person’s body.

We can use images for everything in our life such as drawing pictures or playing sports. Originally, children have this ability to image. If they feel they are clearly loved, they can create a strong, reliable relationship with their parents and they will be relaxed, allowing the ability to develop. Please treasure this trusting relationship between you and your son more than any other thing and together with your son, enjoy using his images.

【Ｑ】 My son will be 4 years old soon. I do image training with him but I cannot lead him to image well because I think he might not understand what imaging is. Even when he shows a reaction, in order to please me, he half-heartedly says a few words and is finished. He likes to play pretend or imitation games using some items but he does not seem to understand that he should be creating a clear image in his head.

【Ａ】 Playing pretend and imitation games are good types of image training. You just have to lead your son to imagine your words by saying, for example, “I will be a rabbit, so please be a squirrel. Then, let’s go to the forest. Oh, an animal appeared by the tree. What is it?” In this way, please develop the story together. He will be able to play in his imaginary world.

Children naturally like to imagine. Don’t wonder if your son can truly imagine but rather enjoy playing pretend together.

【Ｑ】 My daughter is very active and energetic, but she is also restless. She cannot do meditation or controlled breathing before image training. I am worried because she is also restless during the pre-lesson.

【Ａ】 First, calm her down by holding her in your arms or stroking her head. You should do activities after calming her down. If she doesn’t let you do these things because she is embarrassed, you don’t have to do them. It is most important to relax her. In order to advance right brain activities well, it is best to create a trusting relationship between you and your daughter and help her enjoy the activities.

If you cannot do these things in the daytime, lie down before she goes to sleep at night and read a picture book to her when she is relaxed. After that, close the book and you have her imagine what will happen next. Think about when you are both relaxed and do activities at that time.

【Ｑ】 I know that it is good to do mediation, controlled breathing, and suggestions before activities, but I cannot do them well. Also, do I need to do them before every activity?

【Ａ】 The biggest reason for doing meditation, controlled breathing and suggestions (pre-lesson) is to relax and make our brain waves into alpha waves. We recommend that you do the pre-lesson because, when a person is relaxed, his or her right brain can be activated and the brain waves transformed to alpha waves. When your child feels it is a burden to do the pre-lesson, you do not have to do it. If your child continues to feel stress, his or her right brain functions will also decrease. Even if you do not do the pre-lesson correctly, as you hold your child in your arms and pat his or her head, please say to him or her, “I love ○○(your child’s name) so much. Let’s have fun playing together.” In this way, your child will be relieved and relaxed. Your child’s right brain will work. You do not have to do the pre-lesson before every activity, but if you have time, please try to do it.

【Ｑ】 My son is 3 years old. He often pretends to eat invisible snacks in his images. I also enjoy doing this with him when I drive but his friend’s mother doesn’t seem to understand this.

【Ａ】 It is great that you and your son enjoy imagining. All children play with images when they are little in games like pretend or imitation play. However, some adults cannot understand the power of images. You should tell your son to imagine when no one is around him or to use the power of images when he needs them. If you absolutely believe in his right brain capabilities without paying attention to what other parents think, his ability will develop. Please communicate with him positively by saying to him, “It is wonderful that you can see images.”

【Ｑ】 I do telepathy games with my children using Shichida Method materials. My younger child (3 years old) can guess about most of the things but my older child (5 years old) cannot. I know it is not important for them to guess correctly or not but I wonder why my older child cannot do it even though I do the same thing with both of them. My older child gets disappointed because he is the only one who cannot guess. What should I say to him and what should I think?

【Ａ】 Younger children can guess more easily in ESP games. After 3 years old, the older a child is, the more difficulty he or she will have guessing because the function of the brain changes from the right brain to the left brain. In order to transfer the function of the brain from the left to the right, it is necessary to do meditation, controlled breathing and imaging. For your older child, who is over 5 years, you should have him close his eyes and take 3 slow, deep breaths. Then, have him imagine that he goes back to when he was a baby. Do a rehearsal in his image, where he can increasingly guess correctly in ESP games. If your son plays ESP games after this, he will be able to guess easier.

After doing meditation and controlled breathing, have your child imagine that he goes back to before he was born by saying, “Now, ○○, you are in my womb and you are a little, unborn baby.” If you do ESP games with your son after conveying your love and having him feel a sense of oneness with you, your son will be able to guess well. Say to him, “I love ○○(your child’s name) so much. You always stay with me.”

【Ｑ】 My 4-year-old son can often guess correctly in ESP games during his lesson, but recently, he can never guess correctly. He feels frustrated by it and cries terribly. Whenever he does ESP games in his lesson, I think, “I hope he can guess today.” If he does some training, will he be able to guess correctly? Although he practices guessing at home, I sometimes tell him the answer. If he cannot immediately guess, he quickly gets upset.

【Ａ】 Children can guess correctly in ESP games when their waves synchronize with the object’s waves. It is important to convey your love to your son, giving him a tight hug and making your heart synchronize with his. When he does ESP games, relax him by giving him a tight hug and conveying your love to him. Then, say to him, “You can see it because you have a third eye.” If you remember this method, and he practices, he will be able to guess perfectly.

Children’s brains, up to 3 years old, work by giving priority to the right brain. But children cannot guess without doing anything since at around 4 years old the brain’s functions move to the left brain. If you have your son close his eyes and calm down, work can move from his left to his right brain. Say to him, “You can see it with your third eye,” and he will be able to guess well. Please try this.

【Ｑ】 Some students lose motivation when they cannot guess correctly in ESP games. I tell the student that the purpose is not to be able to guess correctly. Do you have any other ways to support them?

【Ａ】 You should say some words to support children who were unable to guess correctly. For example, if a child chooses a triangle on a card when he should have chosen a circle, find a way to support him so that he will not hate ESP games. Say to him, “I know ○○ like triangles. So, you chose this card? Next, let’s choose the circle card.” It is also good to give the child suggestions like, “Next, you will choose the circle card.”

【Ｑ】 Do you know any effective ways to improve the percentage of my child’s correct ESP answers?

【Ａ】 In order to improve the percentage of children’s correct answers in ESP, oneness between parents and children, pre-lesson, and image training are important. The following techniques are also effective:

①Using items related to daily life

（ex：Toys, cards or snacks）

②Using things children are interested in

（ex：Popular characters or their favorite cars）

③Something which children can strongly compare

If you have your child do ESP using food cards, prepare cards: one is your child’s favorite food card and the others are food cards your child hates (or vice versa). If you prepare the cards, your child can clearly compare things like sweet or bitter, cold or hot, etc. and the percentage of his or her correct answers will go up.

【Ｑ】 I always do ESP for children using cards but they seem to be getting bored of it. Do you have any ways to deal with this?

【Ａ】 You can prevent the children from getting bored of ESP by changing the kind of cards. Then, in ESP games, you should use not only cards, but also real items (ex. make a toy of their favorite snack and a small box. Then, have the child guess what kind of snack is in the box.)

【Ｑ】 I enjoy doing Dots together with my son who is 1 year 6 months old but we stop them sometimes. Recently, when I say to him, “Let’s do Dots,” he brings the Dots Set box saying, “Dochu, Dochu.” I showed him blue dot cards but he never looked at the cards. Then, I changed the cards into picture dot cards. When he looks at the apples on the dot cards, he pretends to eat an apple, saying “apple”. When he looks at the ducks on the dot cards, he says, “Quack, quack.” Is it ok to keep doing this?

【Ａ】 When you show him picture dot cards, he says the name of the object. Move on to the next card by saying to him, “OK. What is next? Let’s look at it.” Even if children see dots a few times, their circuits will be activated. It is thought that if a child understands the dot cards from 1 to 10 he can understand the numbers up to 100. But it is most important for you and your son to enjoy dots. When we feel something is fun, our right brain begins working. Arrange the way you show the dot cards and proceed in a fun way because the most effective way to show your son dot cards is when he is willing to look at the cards.

【Ｑ】 I have done the Shichida Dot Set, handmade dot cards and dot videos from the time my daughter was 1 year old until she was 3. However, the percentage of her correct answers in the “Which Game” remains low and she says she does not know the answer. Please give me some advice about what kind of activities I should do with her in the future.

【Ａ】 Continue patiently matching dots with numbers. You should also flash dot cards. On the other hand, you should do image training or ESP games so that she can imagine colors and shapes. If she enjoys image training, do image dots with her. Image dots are for children to calculate the dots they see in their image, without using cards. In order to have her be able to do this, it is important to guide your daughter to see images freely. In image dots, you should convey the image dots from 1 to 10 to her saying, “I will send you 3 dots in my image. If you can see them please let me know.” Then, have her do addition or subtraction problems, with answers up to 5. Say to her, “One dot is added and then there are 4 dots.” Finally, have her change the dots into numbers by saying to her, “Eight dots appear. They all come together and change quickly into the number 8.” Using these methods, enjoy image dots. Her answers will emerge following these steps: question à dots à number à answer.

Then, her right brain will connect with her left brain and, by continuing writing training and flashing dot cards, she will be able to do the calculations using her right brain. You should also have her practice writing numbers. Children who are over 3 years old transfer priority from their right brains to their left. In order to guide your daughter’s brain to function at the right brain level, be sure to do the pre-lesson before beginning activities.

【Ｑ】 I stopped Dots part of the way through the curriculum. Should I start again from the beginning?

【Ａ】 If you stopped doing Dots within the last 2 months, you can start again from the place you left off. However, if you stopped over 3 months ago, you should quickly review from the beginning of the curriculum and then continue from the place you left off.

【Ｑ】 My child will be 6 years old soon. Even if I start Dots with my son now, can he obtain Dots ability?

【Ａ】 After children are over 6 years old, the priority of their brain function gradually shifts from the right brain to the left. When older children do Dot training, please do the pre-lesson (meditation, controlled breathing, suggestions) and image training (achievement images where they can see the answers) first before beginning your activity. Do the activity after transferring priority over to the right brain. If your son does the pre-lesson and image training steadily, he can catch up with other children.

【Ｑ】 I do Dot activities with my daughter. She completed the curriculum and now does the worksheets. Even when she makes mistakes on the worksheets, I do not tell her the correct answers and just leave the worksheet uncorrected. Is this ok?

【Ａ】 Input the correct answers with her and do image dots. In order to make Dots a useful ability, it is necessary to input the correct questions and answers have her establish them in her mind. When she makes mistakes, you should not just set aside the worksheet and hide the answers. If she makes mistakes, show her the correct answers, saying to her, “This is the answer.”

The basis for obtaining Dot ability is seeing the answers in an image. At first, have your daughter close her eyes and imagine the dots. If you say to her, “Close your eyes and you will see 3 dots. Can you see the dots?” and she answers, “Yes, I can,” then say to her, “Next, those 3 dots will change into the number 3. Can you see the number?” If she answers, “Yes, I can,” say to her, “2 more dots are added to the 3, and now you will see 5 dots.” In this way, have her do image dots. Include image dot activities so that your daughter can make Dots a useful ability and so that she is able to have fun with the worksheets.

【Ｑ】 My son (5 years old) hates making mistakes. One month has passed since I started Dot Cards, but when I do the “Which Game”, he cannot easily choose the correct answer. I say to him, “You can make a mistake.” But when he chooses the wrong cards, he gets angry or cries. He doesn’t want to stop playing until he can choose the correct answer.

Also, I started English activities around the same period as Dots. I have played the CD and he can recite 4 pages (80 words) of a book. I am really moved by it and I try to praise him often. I want him to have more confidence and even if he makes a mistake, I want him to be able to act as he hopes to (because even when he makes a mistake, next time he can try his best again). What should I do?

【Ａ】 Checking to see if he can understand Dots by playing the “Which Game” is a test to him. Please don’t play the game yet because it is difficult for children who have been doing Dots for just one month. He can enjoy and easily remember English because he is relaxed when he does it. You should do the Dot program three times, but if he still makes mistakes often, please don’t play the “Which Game”, just continue with the program.

Show him his favorite cards or think of some rewards, like a hug after Dots, so that he will say, “I like looking at Dots.”

【Ｑ】 Is it better to flash Dot cards or other cards with my daughter or have her watch the videos? When I have her watch the videos, she begins doing something else immediately…

【Ａ】 Videos tend to repeat the same things. Watching a video can be a simple activity. If parents keep having children watch the same things, they will get bored immediately. Depending on your daughter’s condition, she may be a little bored of the videos. If you use the videos well, they can be a very good teaching material. You can use them. However, you should mainly flash cards with her and have her watch the videos within your normal card activities. Please arrange your activities so that you don’t repeat the same things. Use the videos as effective teaching materials to alter your card activities.

【Ｑ】 My son likes Dot activities. Also, I strongly hope that he can obtain Dot Computer ability. So I use more time to do Dot activities than other right brain activities. Is this ok?

【Ａ】 You do not have to worry too much because other right brain abilities will emerge when your son develops Dot Computer ability.

The right brain has 6 abilities:

(1. ESP  2. Eidetic Imagery  3. Computer ability  4. Perfect Pitch  5. Language Acquisition ability  6. Healing ability)

These 6 abilities are not independent. They are related to each other. If you can draw out one of these abilities, the other abilities will appear. It is just like when you pick up the center of a handkerchief, drawing the other parts up as well.

However, in order to bring out Computer ability in right brain, it is important to give your son other good right brain stimuli. He cannot bring out his Dot ability by only doing Dots. He will bring out the ability through other stimuli as well. In other words, in order to succeed in Dots, continue other right brain activities like flashing picture cards and memorization training. Other right brain activities also have good effects on Dot ability.

【Ｑ】 How many times should I do the model Dot program?

【Ａ】 Repeat it at least 3 times. Arrange the ways you show the cards in the same cycle. For example, make the speed faster or change the questions or sequences. It is important to repeat the program but please try to think of various ways to show the cards. Remember to use many fun ways to show the cards to your child, not just the ones included in the program.

【Ｑ】 I repeated the model Dot program 3 times. What should I do in the future?

【Ａ】 Begin by moving what your child input in his or her right brain into the left brain by completing “Which” worksheets. Then, guide your child to be able to see answers in his or her images by doing image dots. In addition, show and input many calculation cards with your child so that he or she can answer difficult questions immediately. It is important for your child to read or write numbers using his or her left brain.

For your child to be able to show right brain Dot ability, he or she should connect what is in his or her right brain with the left brain.

【Ｑ】 I discovered that I showed my daughter the wrong Dot cards. I showed her my handmade Dot cards and said “20”, but I counted the number of the dots and realized there were only 19. In this case, what should I do?

【Ａ】 Show her the card with the correct answer again. When you flash Dot Cards, be careful to make the number of dots equal to the number you say aloud. Also, even if the number of dots matches the number you say, if you cover up some dots with your hand, the wrong information will be input. Be careful of this. Prepare for and check your Dot activities.

【Ｑ】 My son and I were able to do Dots because he seemed to like them. However, recently he dislikes doing them. This may be because we do it everyday. Do you have any suggestions?

【Ａ】 If you continue doing only Dot activities, he will be bored of them. It is ok to stop the activities for a while. Also, there are ways to make the activities more fun. Put his favorite character as the top Dot card. He will be interested if you say to him, “○○(the character’s name) is calling your name. He/She says that he/she wants to do Dots with you. He/She is going to tell you about Dots.” You can also arrange the cards in various ways such as making unique cards.

【Ｑ】 When my daughter repeatedly chooses the wrong cards in the Dots “Which Game”, she loses her motivation.

【Ａ】 Mix in easy cards (with a few dots) so that she will be able to answer correctly during the “Which Game”. If she can choose the right card, praise her sincerely. In this way, as you give her the joy of answering correctly, you can develop her motivation.

【Ｑ】 I have done Dot activities many times, but my son cannot acquire rapid calculation ability. I think I have done Dot activities according to the manual. Have I failed in Dots?

【Ａ】 We never fail in Dots. Most Dot abilities appear suddenly. Believe in your son’s ability and continue the activities.

If you, or his teacher, do the activities anxiously, your son will feel the anxiety through waves and it will be more difficult to draw out his Dot ability. It is important to believe in his ability.

Also, most parents feel as if they failed in Dots because, after they input Dots with their children, they cannot see their children’s ability to produce output. In order to tie what was input into the right brain to the output of the left brain, continue Dot activities, placing importance on making time for image dots and number input.

【Ｑ】 I try to input a lot of information into my son rapidly and I flash cards with him rapidly. But he wants to look at the cards slowly. Is it ok to show him the cards slowly?

【Ａ】 It is important to flash one card per second because at this speed the right brain begins working. If you talk about the cards or explain them slowly, only your son’s left brain will work. If he still wants to look at the cards slowly, create another time to show him the cards. Also, if possible, it is better to prepare a separate set of cards to show him slowly.

【Ｑ】 When I flash cards, my daughter simultaneously says some of the picture card words or the dot numbers along with me. Will there be any results from this method?

【Ａ】 If she repeats the words when you flash cards, your speed will get slower. Repetition is important depending on your child’s age. Parents can show children picture cards as they say the words, and then, they can have the children say the words. They can also have children say the words first. Arrange the ways you show cards so that your daughter can concentrate on looking at the cards. For example, make a promise with her before you flash cards, “Please look at the cards quietly.” Or mix in her favorite card and say to her, “Tell me if you see your favorite card.” Also, to keep your child from becoming bored, it is necessary to alter the way you show cards by increasingly mixing in new cards.

If you do right brain activities when you feel irritated or anxious, you will not achieve any results. Try to do activities so that both you and your daughter will enjoy them.

【Ｑ】 I am busy everyday bringing up my 2 children (2 years old and 0 years). I read the cards for a long time but for the past few months I have stopped and depended on the DVDs. Is it better to read the cards in my voice? Also, should I read the same cards every day? Or should I read various kinds of cards?

【Ａ】 When you are busy, use the DVDs and read a book to your children. It is bad to depend on the DVDs completely, but not to use them occasionally. If you cannot make the time to flash cards because you are busy, you should use mainly the DVDs and read one or two picture books to your children. When you have time, like on a Saturday or Sunday, you should flash the cards. Do activities using your own voice as much as possible.

You should not increasingly show new cards, but instead show your children the same cards in the same sequence until they become fixed in your children’s memories. For example, if you show 100 cards in the same sequence once or twice a week, you will develop your children’s’ ability to memorize what card is next. In addition, if you assign a number to each card, you will develop children’s wonderful ability to “memorize cards by connecting pictures and numbers”.

【Ｑ】 I have shown my son flash cards since before he was a year old. Now, he is 5 years old. I think this is the age when priority shifts to left brain function. Will I obtain any results if I keep flashing cards?

【Ａ】 From the viewpoint of activating the right brain or developing instant memorization, flash cards are effective for everyone. If you show your son many cards rapidly, no matter how old he is or even if he were an adult, you would still be giving stimuli to his right brain. It is thought that if 1,000 cards are shown at one time, brain function will change. If your son is willing to look at the cards, continue steadily showing them without thinking about his age. It is important to continue the activity even just a little. If you show cards when your son enjoys looking at them, and provide his right brain with a stimulus, the work you have done up to this point will not be erased, and it will lead to results in the future.

On the other hand, inputting words is another purpose of flash cards. You should not keep showing him the cards he already remembers. Instead change them to new cards so that you increase the amount of new vocabulary or knowledge he receives. Depending on your child’s interests add in special cards and continue inputting words in an enjoyable way.

【Ｑ】 My son is 1 year old. I bought most of the “Flash Cards” last year. My son looked at the cards until he started to crawl. But now that he can move around, he takes out or throws the cards. I cannot show him cards. I may give up Shichida Method. I used to think I was glad that I started early, but now I am ready to quit.

【Ａ】 Maybe your son wants to imitate you. Make some cards for him and let him touch them freely. If he can touch them and understand what the cards are, he will be satisfied.

When you flash cards, arrange the situation so he cannot reach the cards、for example, show him the cards from across the table or flash cards from a higher position such as sitting on a chair. If you continue flashing cards everyday, your son will get into the habit of looking at the cards.

It is effective to flash cards just after your son wakes up or before he goes to bed because these are times when left brain function is restrained. If you prepare the cards in advance, you can flash them quickly. After he looks at the cards, praise him and hug him, saying, “Thank you for looking at the cards.” He will love flash cards because he is happy to be praised.

【Ｑ】 I showed 1600 picture cards to my 7-month-old daughter. How should I show them to her a 2^nd time? I show her 10 cards per category for 5 days and then change 2 cards on the 6^th day.

【Ａ】 Flashing picture cards activates the right brain. It is basic training for the right brain to create circuits so that children can immediately learn what they see. At the same time, it is also an effective way in which children can connect images with words, acquire the vocabulary and activate left brain function.

The important factors in flashing cards are the “rapid speed” in which one card is flashed in less than one second, stopping at the point where the child still wants to look at more cards and the “large quantity” of cards. If your daughter looks at the cards, increase the number of cards you show by 100 or 200 cards. However, if you show her the same cards everyday, she will be bored and not look at them. Change 10% of the cards to new cards. This is called the slide method.

Ten percent is just an example. If your daughter gets bored immediately, increase the number of cards that you “slide”. Two or three weeks later, use the cards again that you changed in the “slide”.

Children can remember things quickly but also forget quickly. After a while, recycle the cards that she already knows to affix them in her memory. Additionally, it is good to mix in cards that she is interested in.

【Ｑ】 When I flash cards, my son loses concentration. Do you have any suggestions on how to keep his concentration focused?

【Ａ】 At first, you should have him promise to concentrate on looking at the cards, because it is important to flash many cards rapidly.

Then, give him suggestions, “You can concentrate on the cards very well.”

There is also a method of asking your child questions about the cards every 10 cards or so, for example, “What’s this?”

You can change your son’s feeling, keep his concentration focused, and check his understanding by having him say the flash cards. However, if you have him say the words too often, you will not be able to rapidly input as much information. Please be careful of this.

【Ｑ】 I have shown my son flash cards since he was 4 months old, but recently he pays attention to other things and never looks at the cards. I thought at that point that we should take a break and I stopped doing cards for a month and a half. Although we started again, he acts the same. What should I do?

【Ａ】 Maybe, your son is bored of the flash cards or it is difficult for him to concentrate on one thing because he is at an age where his curiosity is developing.

With flash cards, arrangement and rhythm are important. When you show him cards, arrange the way you do it so that he can concentrate on it, thinking, “This is unusual.” You can think of various ways to show the cards like mixing in photo cards of you, his father, or him, or some character cards with the other cards. Or you can imitate animal cries when you show animal cards. If you clean up the room before flashing cards you will create an environment in which your son can concentrate. Or keep the activity lively by changing the tone of your voice when you say to him, “Let’s do flash cards,” or “That’s all.”

If you convey your love to your son, hugging him before the activity, he will be relaxed and will look at the cards. When he really dislikes the activity, please do not force him to do it everyday. Continue by taking occasional breaks.

【Ｑ】 I am too busy to do mnemonic activities. Do you have any suggestions?

【Ａ】 You can do memorization training within your daily life:

・Memorizing phone numbers

・Memorizing train station names

・Memorizing people’s names

・Looking at a car’s license plate and trying to change it according to 100 peg words

In addition to the ideas above, there are many things you can memorize in your daily life. Please continue doing memory activities.

【Ｑ】　My second daughter works on the 100 Peg Memory using worksheets for elementary school students. However, she does not advance quickly because she does them slowly. My first daughter said to her, “Well, I’ll make a story,” and changed some peg words, for example, 03 changes to ousama [king in English]. She started telling her own original stories to my second daughter. My second daughter says, “Her stories are easier to remember.” They proceed in this way. Is it ok?

【Ａ】 In Peg Memory, children should begin by memorizing the Peg Words. Then, they memorize various things such as numbers along with the words. They will develop their right brain memory ability, with which they can remember what they saw through images. Also, through repetition of the activity, they will be able to remember many things with images. It is ok to change key peg words into something easier to remember. By repeating this activity, whenever they want to recall something, children will be able to do so smoothly, recalling what they memorized through images in their right brain. Use fun stories to remember the peg word sequence.

【Ｑ】　I do activities for Peg Method and Linking Method using cards but my son cannot easily increase the number of cards he remembers. Then, he often gets bored with the memorization methods or loses his concentration. Do you have any effective methods you can suggest?

【Ａ】 If you force your son to remember or understand something in right brain activities, he will feel stress and it will be difficult to achieve results. Remember to continue activities in an enjoyable way. In addition, try making the contents of what he needs to memorize more interesting. Whether you are using the Linking Method or Peg Method, the more impressive or fun something is to memorize, the longer we can remember it. Some specific methods are:

１．Substitution Method （Substituting the item with something easier to remember）

It is easier to remember items if they are personified and leave lasting impressions.

1. The cactus is walking.

２．Disproportion Method （Destroying the sense of size）

By removing an object’s sense of size, you can make the item more impressive even though it could not exist in real life.

1. A raindrop sized elephant; An enormous ant

３．Hyperbole （Exaggerating the numbers）

1. A hundred oranges in my mouth

４．Dynamic State Technique （Using motion in the story）

When there is movement, similar to animation, the images become humorous.

1. A fish jumped out of his nostril.

Using these slightly exaggerated details will draw out your son’s interest and make it easier for him to remember. Also, by memorizing interesting images, it is possible to do activities without boring your child.

【Ｑ】　My daughter cannot easily use her right brain memory to remember and recreate something she sees only once. What should I do?

【Ａ】 Begin with the Peg Method or the Linking Method, both of which are easy to do. Using either method, she will improve the quality of her memory and through repetition, will draw out her right brain memory. In addition, please give her suggestions before using the method, “You have a camera in your head. You can remember things as if you took a picture.”

【Ｑ】　When should we start speed-reading training?

【Ａ】　Children should start speed-reading training once they can read a book smoothly. Then, you can do the training by rapidly flashing “word” cards.

【Ｑ】 I want my son to do speed-reading training. What should I begin with? Are there any methods for younger children?

【Ａ】 At first, you should do the pre-lesson (meditation, controlled breathing, suggestions) to activate his right brain. Then, do image training before you begin speed-reading training. You should have him imagine that he can read a book smoothly, understand the entire contents, and enjoy it very much.

In addition, please do eye muscle training. Attach his favorite character to the tip of a stick and say to him, “Please, follow the tip.” Because it is difficult for younger children to move just their eyes, move the stick up and down, left and right, and make circles with it.

【Ｑ】 I believe that speed-reading activates the right brain but I cannot understand it because I feel that children cannot appreciate books when they speed read. Don’t you think that if they read a book carefully it will affect them more emotionally? I also think though that in order to study for school entrance exams, it is good for children to be able to read quickly…

【Ａ】 In Shichida Method speed-reading children do not obtain information from reading words, but rather by changing the information in the book to light and images and receiving them with the right brain. They can enjoy reading with right brain images much more than actual, careful reading because the images are so vivid and have real appearances, sound, and senses. The children will feel as if they were inside the book.

Also, children will improve their right brain memorization by activating their right brains. They will be able to remember pages at that moment and freely recreate them at anytime, just as they desire. Certainly, children can understand and enjoy the contents of the books more than with normal reading because they can understand and recall what they speed-read.

Children will not read books slowly when they can read them rapidly. If they want to read normally, they can also do this. When they want to or should read rapidly, they can also do so. In other words, children can adjust their reading speed. By practicing speed-reading, they will be able to control themselves according to the time or occasion. It is important to realize that speed-reading is very different from normal reading and to use both techniques properly.