Submitted by suzanne (not verified) on Wed, 08/12/2009 - 11:16.
My initial reaction to Maier's article in the Post was outrage. After I calmed down, I read her top 10 list and chuckled, because there is definitely some validity to her points. I also appreciate that she is trying to be provocative and a bit tongue in cheek in trying to sell her book!
Your list above is great. I will add another to the list (or expand on # 16): Children help you grow and acknowledge your own shortcomings by holding a special mirror in front of you. If you choose to look at that mirror, you realize that your kids are not only a reflection of you, but they make you examine who you are and what you say and do. My 7 year old son will often "call me" on things that I have said or done that he is absolutely right about! (eg: "yeah, you didn't yell at me, but you used angry words and that hurt my feelings" or "you weren't listening to me; I was trying to tell you, but you ignored me") Gulp, you think your job is to help your children grow, when in fact they help you grow as well!
children help you grow
My initial reaction to Maier's article in the Post was outrage. After I calmed down, I read her top 10 list and chuckled, because there is definitely some validity to her points. I also appreciate that she is trying to be provocative and a bit tongue in cheek in trying to sell her book!
Your list above is great. I will add another to the list (or expand on # 16): Children help you grow and acknowledge your own shortcomings by holding a special mirror in front of you. If you choose to look at that mirror, you realize that your kids are not only a reflection of you, but they make you examine who you are and what you say and do. My 7 year old son will often "call me" on things that I have said or done that he is absolutely right about! (eg: "yeah, you didn't yell at me, but you used angry words and that hurt my feelings" or "you weren't listening to me; I was trying to tell you, but you ignored me") Gulp, you think your job is to help your children grow, when in fact they help you grow as well!