Meaning: The quote by Kent McCord, "Frequently parents forget that children are people. I don't try to treat Kristen as an adult, but I do try to treat her as a person, with a child's sensibilities," highlights an important aspect of parenting and the way adults interact with children. It emphasizes the need for parents and adults to recognize and respect the individuality of children, acknowledging their feelings, thoughts, and perspectives as valid and important.

Parenting is often a challenging and complex role, and it is easy for adults to fall into the trap of disregarding the personhood of children. This can manifest in various ways, such as dismissing children's emotions, imposing adult expectations and standards on them, or failing to consider their unique needs and experiences. McCord's statement serves as a reminder that children are not simply extensions of their parents or lesser beings; they are individuals in their own right, deserving of understanding and empathy.

The first part of the quote, "Frequently parents forget that children are people," speaks to the tendency of adults to overlook the humanity of children. This oversight can lead to a lack of empathy and sensitivity in adult-child interactions. When parents or caregivers fail to recognize the personhood of children, it can result in misunderstandings, conflicts, and a sense of alienation for the child. By acknowledging this oversight, McCord highlights the importance of reevaluating the way adults perceive and interact with children.

In the second part of the quote, McCord articulates his approach to treating his daughter, Kristen, as a person with a child's sensibilities. This distinction is crucial as it demonstrates an awareness of the developmental stage and unique needs of children. While McCord does not advocate for treating his daughter as an adult, he emphasizes the importance of respecting her as an individual with her own thoughts, feelings, and sensitivities. This approach fosters a supportive and understanding relationship between parent and child, where the child feels valued and validated.

McCord's perspective aligns with the principles of positive parenting, which emphasize the importance of building strong, respectful, and empathetic relationships with children. By acknowledging children as people with their own perspectives and emotions, parents and adults can create an environment where children feel safe to express themselves, seek guidance, and develop a sense of self-worth.

In practical terms, recognizing children as people involves active listening, validating their emotions, and involving them in decision-making processes that are appropriate for their age and understanding. It also requires adults to be mindful of their language and behavior, avoiding condescension or dismissiveness. By treating children as people, adults can nurture their self-esteem, resilience, and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, Kent McCord's quote underscores the significance of acknowledging and respecting the personhood of children. By doing so, parents and adults can cultivate meaningful and supportive relationships with children, creating an environment where children feel valued, understood, and empowered to navigate the world around them. This perspective encourages a more compassionate and empathetic approach to parenting and adult-child interactions, ultimately benefiting the holistic development of children.