Larry Thompson

💪 Self-Control Is a Muscle — And Schools Can Help Students Strengthen It

Every day, students face choices that test their self-control — from handling frustration to staying focused on tough assignments. Larry Thompson, creator of Responsibility-Centered Discipline™ (RCD™), says the key to better behavior isn’t more rules — it’s helping students build self-control like a muscle.

With the right guidance and “spotting” from educators, students can grow stronger through challenges instead of being rescued from them. Thompson emphasizes fostering mastery, autonomy and purpose — helping students learn from struggle, feel ownership over their choices, and see meaning in their efforts.

When schools coach rather than control, kids don’t just behave better — they become more confident, resilient and ready to take responsibility for their own success. 🌱Larry Thompson

Preliminary Session at Innovative Schools Summit in New York yesterday.

Cancelled flights so drove late into the night to provide training at JFK High School in Cedar Rapids.