Stage Parents

You see him in the soccer field - arguing loudly with the coach
that his son should play forward.

You see her in the classroom, during parent-teacher-orientation,
arguing with the teacher regarding her daughter's grade.

You see him at basketball games or practice-
forcibly making his son do that crucial shot.

You see her huddled in front of the computer
editing her son's essay. (ouch!)

You see them everywhere: Stage Parents

Why?- Because parents today are going to extremes - determined to do anything to make a better life for their children - a perfect childhood for their children. Afraid that their children will make mistakes, most parents today simply refuse to let their children develop at their own paces. They push too hard in terms of academics, sports and the arts.

Oh, my two-and-half-year old son can read phonetically.

Ah!, my three-year old daughter can do double digits addition.

I enrolled my 5 year old daughter in ballet and jazz. I just hope it does not conflict with her piano lessons.

Too much too soon . Your kids might be burned out even before even reaching middle school. I have a few tested-suggestions.

Take a real interest in your kids' lives- do not let them be extensions of yourselves. Let them develop at their own pace. Guide them but do not strangle them. Listen to what they have to say. Be firm, not hard, in handling your kids.Teach them good values and morals for their moral compass. Let them climb the ladder of life - but make sure you're right behind them ready to catch them less they fall.