Throwing a safety net under a kid is tantamount to slinging a noose around his neck. Everyone wants kids to succeed. All adults want children to become responsible, independent learners who grow to make wise decisions. So why do adults get in the way of kids success? Its done every dayadults rescuing kids from certain failure.
See if this scenario is familiar. Alan, 9, has known since October 1 that his book report is due by the end of the month. Mom sees at the end of the second week, Alan hasnt even started. Alan, youre going to read the next 20 pages for your book report. I mapped out how many pages you have to read every day to still have time to write the report, but youll only make it if you keep to my schedule. Now get started. He trudges upstairs and begins to read, but puts the book aside to play a video game. He repeats this pattern for the next week and a half. On October 30, he suddenly realizes his report is due!
Mom, he cries in panic, Im not done with my book report! Ive read most of it, but I havent gotten to the ending, and I still have to write the report! Its due tomorrow! What am I going to do? Hes crying remorsefully and he sincerely feels...