In essence he configured the electrons, protons, and neutrons around him to do his bidding. When he stopped applying power or a link with the atoms they reverted back to what they were before. He was taught about the taboo of splitting or forcefully hitting the atoms against each other and was met with not the consequences of expulsion but of death from your own accord. It was a little bit morbid for the 12 to 13 year olds.
