Every horseman will tell you that the animal knows instinctively the character of the person managing him.

If a thrill of fear touches him who holds the reins, the horse responds to it as to an electric shock, and becomes almost beside himself with nervousness.

If a firm, steady, yet gentle grasp is on the lines, the creature obeys in spite of himself.

This same principle applies to children.

If you cannot control yourself the children know it, and you may as well give up all idea of curbing them.