“Everybody wants to save the earth. Nobody wants to help mom do the dishes” P.J. O’Rourke I believe most parents dream of their children doing great things. It is such a delight to see the miracle of development unfold before our eyes throughout childhood. They often surprise us with clear insight that is more mature than [read more] …
character
Living in the Real World
An interesting college interview question presented itself to my son when Harvard wanted to know how old he was when he made his first adult-level contribution to an activity or work experience. It is an important question to think about, not because Harvard asked it, but because kids who live in the real world doing [read more] …
Finding a Balance
As students reach upper high school, parents suddenly find themselves in a quandary. What should be required of this almost-adult family member who seemingly has too much to do and not enough time to do it? We don’t want to jeopardize their future academically, yet we don’t want to raise self-centered snobs, either. When time [read more] …
The Critical Importance of a Mother’s Self-Confidence
I had a robust self-esteem from early childhood. Surrounded by family, grandparents and great grandparents, I knew I was treasured. I was a good student in my less than rigorous high school. I was a standout in my extracurricular activities as a big fish in a very small pond. I left that cozy environment, yet [read more] …
The Art of Being Interested
It is a thing that must be trained, this art of being interested in others. It’s amazing what a person can learn about the world by merely asking heartfelt questions of those around them. Our children will normally follow our example and learn how to shift the focus from SELF to a true appreciation and [read more] …