What lesson is learned from the way Macdonald meets children?

One should connect with children affectionately

The governing concept is affectionate and respectful communication with children. Macdonald’s friendly manner shows that children respond positively when an adult speaks to them warmly rather than appearing threatening or distant. Option B is correct because affectionate connection builds comfort, trust, and openness. Staying away from children or refusing to speak prevents a relationship from developing. Frightening them produces fear, not genuine understanding. This contrast also helps Kezia evaluate her own father: Macdonald expresses warmth openly, while her father is more reserved and stern. The lesson is not that every parent must behave identically, but that children need approachable care and emotional connection.

This is a Class 9 English question. Chapter: The Little Girl. Topic: Parent-child relationships.