Brain Basics
Connection First
Discipline vs. Punishment
Parenting Tools
Real-Life Scenarios
100

What are the two parts of the brain referred to in the book?

Upstairs brain and downstairs brain

100

What does “connect before you redirect” mean?

Offer empathy before correction to calm the brain

100

What does “discipline” mean according to the book?

To teach

100

What is a “time-in”?

A moment to connect and help the child regulate emotions, instead of isolation

100

Your child throws a toy in frustration. What’s your first step using No-Drama Discipline?

Connect with empathy before redirecting

200

Which part of the brain controls logic and decision-making?

Upstairs brain

200

Why is connection important before discipline?

It helps the child feel safe and ready to listen

200

What is a key difference between discipline and punishment?

Discipline teaches, punishment causes pain or fear

200

What is the “name it to tame it” strategy?

Helping a child label their feelings to calm down

200

A child screams at bedtime. How might you respond with connection first?

Validate their feelings, then calmly set a limit

300

Why do children “flip their lid”? (What part of the brain takes control?)

Their downstairs brain takes over when overwhelmed

300

Give one phrase a parent might say to connect in a tough moment.

“I can see you’re really upset. I’m here.”

300

Why is punishment less effective long-term?

It doesn’t teach new behavior or build connection

300

Why should parents be aware of their own emotional state?

Because calm parents help children regulate

300

A toddler hits their sibling. How do you use discipline to teach, not punish?

Help them calm down, then talk about kind hands

400

True or False: Discipline helps build the brain over time.

True.

400

What does connection do to the child’s emotional state?

Calms their nervous system

400

Give an example of punishment and an alternative discipline strategy.

Any answer is correct!

400

Name one tool that helps children reflect on their behavior.

Asking questions like “What was going on?”

400

What do you say to a child who says, “You never listen to me!”?

Reflect and validate their feeling. Invite a respectful conversation where the child feels heard. 

500

What’s the goal of integrating the brain during discipline?

To connect emotion with reason so the child can learn and grow

500

What is the long-term benefit of using connection first?

Builds trust and teaches emotional regulation

500

How does the book suggest we correct misbehavior?

With empathy, connection, and teaching

500

What’s the purpose of creating a “teachable moment”?

Help the child learn what to do differently next time

500

You’re losing patience. What should you do before disciplining?

Take a breath and calm yourself first

M
e
n
u