Love and Logic is a research-driven, whole-child philosophy founded in 1977 by Jim Fay and Foster W. Cline, M.D. It provides practical tools and techniques that help adults achieve respectful, healthy relationships with their children through a behavior management system grounded in a cycle of empathy, shared control, reasonable consequences, and shared thinking. The language framing used in this system activates students’ frontal cortex, which, over time, facilitates greater self-management and self-regulation. The skills covered in the Love and Logic approach creates a loving environment with empathy and predictability at the core - a core tenet of the Haven Way.

Love and Logic is a part of the larger repertoire of skills and techniques that make up the Haven toolbox, and is part of the Tier 1 Social Emotional Learning approach for all students at Haven.

Rules about Love and Logic

1. RULE #1 Adults set firm limits in loving ways without anger, lecture, or threats.

2. RULE #2 When a child causes a problem the adult hands it back in loving ways.

What this looks like in action…

1. In a loving way, the adult holds the child accountable for solving his/her problems in a way that does not make a problem for others.

2. Children are offered choices with limits.

3. Adults use enforceable statements.

4. Adults provide delayed/extended consequences.

5. The adult’s empathy is “locked in” before consequences are delivered.

Why Does it Work?

1. Uses humor, hope, and empathy to build up the adult/child relationship

2. Emphasizes respect and dignity for both children and adults

3. Provides real limits in a loving way

4. Teaches consequences and healthy decision-making