How whack is it, that when I want to really punish my oldest son, I have to take away reading????? I know it sounds absurd, but ever since about 6th grade, he has been an avid reader. Good right?? I love that about him. We even love the same kind of books. We both love mythological stuff, and history, and biblical fiction. He is so interesting to talk to, it is like having our own exclusive book club. My younger son Michael is developing this love of reading too, which is awesome!! So what is wrong with this picture? When reading becomes as much of a diversion from doing what you are supposed to be doing (studying, homework, annotating, copying notes), when wanting to get to your book makes you rush through a test, it becomes as bad as an iphone, or a video game or TV. Messed up. It feels completely counter intuitive to take it away, but we have to. We took away his kindle, he went to the library. Even though our new agreement CLEARLY states, NO PLEASURE READING DURING THE SCHOOL WEEK.... I look at him reading that book (in complete defiance of our agreement), and I can't bring myself to take it away. I am soooooo wrapped.
Summer is a wonderful time if you have the luxury to stay home with your kids and enjoy the slower pace. Lazy days, pool time, reading, outings, and spending time at the beach is good for the soul. If you are a parent who keeps your kids home with you vs. sending them to camp--- there is also a dark side to the lazy days of Summer. I know many Moms who say loud and proud, "I can't wait till Summer!! Oh yeah! Only 3 more weeks!!, Oh no! It's over already! We need a few more weeks!!" Are you one of those? Do you say it with a straight face? Ok, maybe you are sincere. Bully for you, you win the Mom medal. Those are NOT my people. I love my kids, don't get me wrong, I really do. I love reading time, and lego time, and swimming, and picnics at the beach-- as much as any other Mom. Let's get real for a minute though. We can't play down the other side of life with kids. The constant fighting The whining The meltdowns (yes one of our guys st...
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