A Word from A
WAHM
"Ask
My Children"
- ©
1999, by Cheryl Demas
-
Lately, there's a lot of attention being
given to a study that asked children how they felt about working
parents. The results (surprise!) should make parents feel good
about leaving their children. The children say they're getting
along just fine.
The flu has been making its way
through our house, and as a result, I haven't been able to be
as "active" in my children's lives. I wondered how
they felt about it, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity
to take my own informal survey, and ... "Ask my children."
Me: Tell me children, what has
having to be more responsible for your own needs taught you about
responsibility and self reliance?
Children: Frosted Flakes are good.
Me: But what are the implications
of having to fend for yourselves? I haven't been able to influence
your decisions and guide your choices, have you felt too much
pressure?
Children: I'm feeling pressure to get to level 7 in my video
game. Can we buy the player's guide?
Maybe I'm being too abstract
... I'll ask more practical questions.
Me: What would you like for dinner?
Your choices are a nutritious balanced meal, or Valentine candy
hearts.
Children: We choose valentine candy hearts and root beer.
Me: Would you like to stay in
your pajamas and play Nintendo all day?
Children: Yes!
Me: Am I the greatest mom in
the whole world?
Children: Yes!
Wow, all this time I thought
I had a pretty good idea of what was best for my children. I
guess I should have started asking for their opinions a lot sooner!
It sure makes my life easier! No more cooking and cleaning, teaching
and driving to activities. This is great!
Give it a try, moms. Question
your kids. I think you'll find out that you're a great parent
too! I know I am, just ask my children!
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