I think 7 is the earliest it is recommended that kids start guitar or drums. Piano & violin earlier, and almost everything else you wait until they have most of their permanent teeth.

I swear I talk about competition ad nauseum around here. My approach thus far has been:

- talking - about being happy for others, not comparing ourselves to others

- celebrating - anytime one has something to celebrate, we have a "party" after dinner (which really just means cupcakes and a moment in the spotlight, but we don't do cupcakes other than that so they are a big treat) - anyone who is happy for the one being celebrated is welcome to attend the party - anyone who is jealous or has a bad attitude is welcome to head it on to bed while the rest of us eat our cupcakes

- we talk about attitudes & effort rather than results. ALL THE TIME. I am so tired of that conversation! "Do your very best, with a smile!" Gag.

- I call them out when they try to upstage each other. This has especially been applicable recently as they are all on the same soccer team. "Mommy, I ran real fast!" Another kid interrupts with "*I* scored a goal!" "J, I'm talking to your sister right now - don't interrupt her to brag. E, I'm so glad you did your very best!" Then I will later talk to J, "I'm glad you scored a goal, but more importantly, I'm proud of the fact that you did your very best the whole time! Next time, please don't interrupt your sister - she did her very best too!"

BGG born 4/25/05 at 31w1d




New baby girl born 9/19/06