The best way to get kids to do something is to let them do it their way. Too often, parents not only tell a child what to do, but also how to do it. Friends or peers can add even more pressure to do things a certain way.

The Kolbe Y™ Index identifies how a young person (4th grade reading level to 17 years old) will take action when free to be him or herself. The Kolbe IF™ for Kids Index, completed by parent or adult observer of children 2-8 years old, describes these same underlying patterns of behavior. Knowing your child's natural method of operation will help you direct their instinctive energy and provide an environment that nurtures creative behavior. The earlier a parent can target and reinforce these creative instincts, the greater the likelihood for success in school, in play and in communicating with others.