CETconnect.org

I, too, read the My Turn article and I just hoped that this woman does NOT take her turn. Yes, I do agree that the tummy rubbing lady is kinda creepy, but parents have been robbed—robbed of personal space by their own children and maybe this woman just forgot the social rules for a brief moment.

More importantly, ranting like Dennis Miller about bad parents, improper parenting, or even those untamed children is not really going to solve any problems. Albeit, getting hit in the face is not a fun experience and has merit for an extended rant; however, things could look very different from a child’s point of view.

What would you do if the Wicked Witch of the West stooped down to “greet” you? You may be frightened enough to lash out just to protect your ruby slippers and what personal space you have left. Just keep in mind that those aggressive or ill-behaved children have feelings too.

The best thing this woman can do is not kill herself taking college child development courses. Since she expects results right away, she should learn some practical strategies for interacting with children.

Family Communications, the producers of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood list some excellent advice in their Resources for Parenting including sections on Fears and Rules. They also post a monthly newsletter on helping children deal with angry feelings.

You can also take some of the many FREE CET Ready To Learn classes being offered this summer.  Each class gives practical ways to interact with children in meaningful ways while focusing on fun topics like Science or Art. Remember even those “model parents” who have all the resources and training imaginable will be surprised by something their child will do or say in public. They come with no owners manuals or guarantees. Children are the best little teachers in the world. And the test is not a whiney rant in Newsweek.It’s how you handle it. So, get over yourself, get a helmet, and go play with the kids!

–Barbara, Ready To Learn Coordinator, parent of a feisty 3-year-old boy, helmet wearer