I just wanted to clarify a few things based on a strong response I received from one of my more machmir (strict) list members about "special time". At first I was upset by the implications of her response. But one of my friends told me that she was only being critical of the concept --and not me personally. And she did have some good points.

By "let them be the boss" during special time, I simply meant to let them guide the Torah oriented puzzle or learning experience. Chas v'shalom that I would suggest to let any of their observances lapse for that 20 minutes. In addition, I certainly didn't mean that the parent should not moderate, correct, or narrate when needed. And I certainly didn't mean that parents should not still be parents for 20 minutes.

The point was that the special time should be child-lead for 20 minutes. This allows you to gauge how well the child applies his/ her education by themselves. And it also allows for an incredible bonding experience. The suggestion that R. Krohn (or any other Rav) would discourage independent thinking AT THIS LEVEL is a stretch -- in my opinion.  In addition, this shows the child that you are actually interested in what they are doing -mamash. Further, it encourages honesty and allows you to evaluate your children. By the way, the danger of independent thinking that some worry about is a non-issue here because the children are thinking out loud. The whole activity allows you --as the parent to narrate -- with corrections. If anything this teaches leadership.