When she couldn’t pick a snack

I was visiting a friend recently when her daughter stood frozen in front of the pantry. She wanted a snack, but every choice felt overwhelming. Tears welled up in her eyes as she whispered, “I don’t know what to pick. I can’t do it.”

My friend knelt down beside her and gently said, “Would you like pretzels or applesauce?” Almost instantly, the little girl’s shoulders relaxed and she replied softly, “Applesauce.”

This moment reminded me of something beautiful from TBRI: the power of offering choices. Not unlimited choices, but two simple options that help kids feel safe and capable.

When children are overwhelmed, even the smallest decisions can feel impossible. TBRI teaches us that offering two choices gives children agency while preventing the stress of too many options. It’s structure wrapped in love.

Next time you see a child stuck or melting down over a decision, try offering two simple choices. You might say something like “Do you want the blue cup or the green cup?” or “Would you like to brush your teeth now or in five minutes?” or “Do you want to wear your boots or your sneakers today?”

These small choices aren’t just about getting through the moment. They build trust, connection, and felt safety. They remind children that someone is there, guiding them through a world that often feels too big.

Try it this week and notice how this simple shift can bring calm to everyday moments.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​