On the way to my Mom and Dad's house,
Timmy asked me: "Mom, why do we need to go to grandpa and grandma's house?
Me: "Because they are my parents and they are old now.
So we need to come and see them. They will be very happy when they see us.
Therefore, one day when Mom and Dad are old, you need to come and see us too yeah..."
Timmy: "No need Mom..... because I'm going to live with you and Papa."
Ah...Timmy....Timmy....
21 January 2012
13 January 2012
We Can Make a Choice
I came across a nice article from www.oureverydaythings.com
I would like to keep it here, before I forget about it, before it becomes too hard to find..
because this blog has become sort of my diary... to keep the memories....the colorful rainbow of my life...
Quote:
"In life there are things that we can and cannot choose.
We CAN’T choose when we’d want to be born.
We CAN’T choose our race.
We CAN’T choose our parents.
There are many things in our lives that are simply be ‘beyond’ our control. And we simply can’t make a choice.
However.
There are countless other things in our lives that we CAN choose.
We CAN choose to forgive and not hate.
We CAN choose to be more of a giver and not just a receiver.
We CAN choose to be more grateful and not complain.
We CAN choose to be more loving in our words and actions towards our family and everyone else.
We CAN choose to see life in a more positive light and not be pessimistic.
…
There will definitely be HEAPS of choices that we all need to make this year.
Choices that are personal.
Choices that will involve our loved ones too.
For our little family, I pray that the choices we’ll make this year are in sync with God’s master plans for us.
Through the years, we’ve witnessed how God had been so merciful and graceful to our family. And I really, truly, believe that HE will again show HIS faithfulness, mercy and grace this year.
Not just to us, but also to you and your loved ones.
May the year 2012 be another blessed journey for us all."
Unquote.
10 January 2012
Defiance: Why it happens and what to do about it
I am facing a difficult phase as a parent, where Timmy is rude, ignorant, etc.
It's really challenging being a parent.
Luckily there's online help and would like to share this article.
by Karen Miles
It's really challenging being a parent.
Luckily there's online help and would like to share this article.
Defiance: Why it happens and what to do about it
by Karen Miles
Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board
print
Why grade-schoolers defy their parents
Your grade-schooler is well past the temper tantrum stage, thank goodness. But he's not exactly obedient, either. In fact, he refuses to come in for dinner when you call him, ignores your requests to pick up his socks, and responds with a surly "what for?" when you ask him to take out the trash.
"So what's going on here?" you wonder. "Did I mess up somewhere along the way, or is my kid just out to get me?"
Believe it or not, you're probably doing fine. Frustrating as it is, it's normal for grade-schoolers to test adult guidelines and expectations. At this age, "defiance is about finding a way to assert yourself," says Susanne Ayers Denham, a professor of psychology at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.
As your grade-schooler matures and learns more about the world around him, he develops his own opinions about relationships and rules (or adopts his friends' opinions). So don't be surprised if he tries to assert himself by defying you and your "stupid" directives. Unlike a younger child, though, your rebel-in-the-making probably won't have a fit when you ask him to do something he dislikes. But he may pretend he didn't hear you, or respond very s-l-o-w-l-y to your request. ("You mean, you wanted those socks picked uptoday?")
"So what's going on here?" you wonder. "Did I mess up somewhere along the way, or is my kid just out to get me?"
Believe it or not, you're probably doing fine. Frustrating as it is, it's normal for grade-schoolers to test adult guidelines and expectations. At this age, "defiance is about finding a way to assert yourself," says Susanne Ayers Denham, a professor of psychology at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.
As your grade-schooler matures and learns more about the world around him, he develops his own opinions about relationships and rules (or adopts his friends' opinions). So don't be surprised if he tries to assert himself by defying you and your "stupid" directives. Unlike a younger child, though, your rebel-in-the-making probably won't have a fit when you ask him to do something he dislikes. But he may pretend he didn't hear you, or respond very s-l-o-w-l-y to your request. ("You mean, you wanted those socks picked uptoday?")
What you can do about defiance
Be understanding. When you ask your youngster to come in for lunch and he yells, "Not now!" and then fumes when you make him come in anyway, try to put yourself in his shoes. If he's skateboarding with his buddies, tell him you know it's tough to leave, but lunch is ready.
The idea is to show him that instead of being part of the problem, you're actually on his side. Try not to get angry (even if the neighbors are checking out the show your grade-schooler is putting on). Be kind but firm about making him come in when he must.
Set limits. Grade-schoolers need — and even want — limits, so set them and make sure your child knows what they are. Spell it out: "You're not allowed to make phone calls without permission" or "You must come in when I call you the first time."
If your youngster has problems abiding by the rules (as every child does), work on solutions. Talk the situation out and try to get to the bottom of your child's defiance.
Maybe he balks at doing his homework because math is giving him trouble. In that case, perhaps a computer math game or a few math sessions with an older sibling will help. Or maybe he doesn't like to come in when you call him because he doesn't get enough free time outside. Once he knows that you're working with him to solve the problem, he's likely to tone down the defiance.
Reinforce good behavior. Though you may be sorely tempted to give your grade-schooler a verbal lashing when he defies you, hold your tongue. "When a child behaves badly, she already feels terrible," says Jane Nelsen, author of the Positive Discipline series of books. "Where did we ever get the idea that in order to make children do better, we first have to make them feel worse?" In fact, doing so may only produce more negative behavior.
Instead, try to catch your child acting appropriately and encourage him to continue. Remember, disciplining your grade-schooler doesn't mean controlling him — it means teaching him to control himself.
Punishment might incite him to behave, but only because he's afraid not to. It's best for your child to do the right thing because he wants to — because it makes the day more fun for him or makes him feel good.
Still, let your child know that when he breaks a rule, there will be consequences. Be specific and logical rather than punitive: "If you play with the soccer ball in the house, we'll have to keep it in the garage."
Use time-outs — positively. When your grade-schooler's about to blow his top because he isn't getting his way, help him cool off. Rather than a punitive time-out ("Go to your room!"), encourage him to retreat to a favorite corner of his bedroom or a comfy couch in the family room.
Maybe your child would even like to design a "calm-down place" for himself — with a big pillow, a soft blanket, and a few favorite books. If he refuses to go, offer to go with him to read or talk.
If he still refuses, go yourself — just to chill out. Not only will you set a good example, but you also might get a much-needed break. Once you both feel calmer, that's the time to talk about appropriate behavior.
Empower your grade-schooler. Try to provide opportunities for your youngster to strut some of his cherished independence. Let him choose his own clothes (as long as they're reasonably clean and free of holes and stains). Ask him to pick tonight's vegetable from a choice of three, or settle on a Batman or a dinosaur binder for his schoolwork. "This kind of involvement doesn't mean your grade-schooler is running the show," says Nelson, "it just shows that you respect him and his needs."
Another way to help your child feel more in control is to tell him what he can do instead of what he can't. Rather than saying, "No! Don't swing that bat in the house!" say, "Practice swinging in the yard, Jake." Your child is old enough to understand explanations now, too, so tell him why indoor batting practice is ill-advised.
Choose your battles. If your fashion-savvy grade-schooler wants to wear a camouflage T-shirt with striped shorts, what do you care? If he wants waffles for lunch and peanut butter and jelly for breakfast, what's the harm? Sometimes it's easier just to look the other way — when he fails to comb his hair, for example, or stores his clean laundry under the bed instead of putting it in the proper drawer.
Compromise. Avoid situations that might spark your child's defiant streak. If a particular friend seems to be pushing his buttons lately, invite a different playmate over for a while. If he hates to see people pawing his PokÈmon collection, put it away before his cousins visit.
If you happen to find yourself in a tricky situation, though, try to meet your grade-schooler in the middle: "You can't chase Aunt Sarah's cat around, but maybe you can fill his food bowl." It's not 100 percent foolproof, but it's worth a try.
Respect his age and stage. When you ask your grade-schooler to make his bed or clean the bathroom, make sure he knows how. Try to take time to teach him new tasks, and do them together until he really gets the hang of it. Sometimes what looks like defiance is simply an inability to follow through on a responsibility that's too difficult.
Finally, respect the unique world your grade-schooler lives in. Rather than expecting him to happily jump up from a game he's winning to come set the table, give him a few minutes' notice to help him switch gears. ("Zeke, we'll be eating in five minutes, so please finish up and set the table.")
He probably won't be overjoyed about having to leave the fun to fool around with forks — in fact, he's likely to grumble all the while. But as long as you're patient and consistent, your youngster will eventually learn that defiance isn't the way to get what he wants.
The idea is to show him that instead of being part of the problem, you're actually on his side. Try not to get angry (even if the neighbors are checking out the show your grade-schooler is putting on). Be kind but firm about making him come in when he must.
Set limits. Grade-schoolers need — and even want — limits, so set them and make sure your child knows what they are. Spell it out: "You're not allowed to make phone calls without permission" or "You must come in when I call you the first time."
If your youngster has problems abiding by the rules (as every child does), work on solutions. Talk the situation out and try to get to the bottom of your child's defiance.
Maybe he balks at doing his homework because math is giving him trouble. In that case, perhaps a computer math game or a few math sessions with an older sibling will help. Or maybe he doesn't like to come in when you call him because he doesn't get enough free time outside. Once he knows that you're working with him to solve the problem, he's likely to tone down the defiance.
Reinforce good behavior. Though you may be sorely tempted to give your grade-schooler a verbal lashing when he defies you, hold your tongue. "When a child behaves badly, she already feels terrible," says Jane Nelsen, author of the Positive Discipline series of books. "Where did we ever get the idea that in order to make children do better, we first have to make them feel worse?" In fact, doing so may only produce more negative behavior.
Instead, try to catch your child acting appropriately and encourage him to continue. Remember, disciplining your grade-schooler doesn't mean controlling him — it means teaching him to control himself.
Punishment might incite him to behave, but only because he's afraid not to. It's best for your child to do the right thing because he wants to — because it makes the day more fun for him or makes him feel good.
Still, let your child know that when he breaks a rule, there will be consequences. Be specific and logical rather than punitive: "If you play with the soccer ball in the house, we'll have to keep it in the garage."
Use time-outs — positively. When your grade-schooler's about to blow his top because he isn't getting his way, help him cool off. Rather than a punitive time-out ("Go to your room!"), encourage him to retreat to a favorite corner of his bedroom or a comfy couch in the family room.
Maybe your child would even like to design a "calm-down place" for himself — with a big pillow, a soft blanket, and a few favorite books. If he refuses to go, offer to go with him to read or talk.
If he still refuses, go yourself — just to chill out. Not only will you set a good example, but you also might get a much-needed break. Once you both feel calmer, that's the time to talk about appropriate behavior.
Empower your grade-schooler. Try to provide opportunities for your youngster to strut some of his cherished independence. Let him choose his own clothes (as long as they're reasonably clean and free of holes and stains). Ask him to pick tonight's vegetable from a choice of three, or settle on a Batman or a dinosaur binder for his schoolwork. "This kind of involvement doesn't mean your grade-schooler is running the show," says Nelson, "it just shows that you respect him and his needs."
Another way to help your child feel more in control is to tell him what he can do instead of what he can't. Rather than saying, "No! Don't swing that bat in the house!" say, "Practice swinging in the yard, Jake." Your child is old enough to understand explanations now, too, so tell him why indoor batting practice is ill-advised.
Choose your battles. If your fashion-savvy grade-schooler wants to wear a camouflage T-shirt with striped shorts, what do you care? If he wants waffles for lunch and peanut butter and jelly for breakfast, what's the harm? Sometimes it's easier just to look the other way — when he fails to comb his hair, for example, or stores his clean laundry under the bed instead of putting it in the proper drawer.
Compromise. Avoid situations that might spark your child's defiant streak. If a particular friend seems to be pushing his buttons lately, invite a different playmate over for a while. If he hates to see people pawing his PokÈmon collection, put it away before his cousins visit.
If you happen to find yourself in a tricky situation, though, try to meet your grade-schooler in the middle: "You can't chase Aunt Sarah's cat around, but maybe you can fill his food bowl." It's not 100 percent foolproof, but it's worth a try.
Respect his age and stage. When you ask your grade-schooler to make his bed or clean the bathroom, make sure he knows how. Try to take time to teach him new tasks, and do them together until he really gets the hang of it. Sometimes what looks like defiance is simply an inability to follow through on a responsibility that's too difficult.
Finally, respect the unique world your grade-schooler lives in. Rather than expecting him to happily jump up from a game he's winning to come set the table, give him a few minutes' notice to help him switch gears. ("Zeke, we'll be eating in five minutes, so please finish up and set the table.")
He probably won't be overjoyed about having to leave the fun to fool around with forks — in fact, he's likely to grumble all the while. But as long as you're patient and consistent, your youngster will eventually learn that defiance isn't the way to get what he wants.
How to tell if your child is happy at school
How to tell if your child is happy at school
by Maile Carpenter
It would great if your child could tell you whenever she was unhappy at school, but you can't count on that — especially during the first few years. School and the teacher can intimidate kids during the early elementary years, so your child might not feel comfortable sharing her feelings with you. Assuming your child isn't dishing the dirt on what's happening all day, here are some ways to find out if she's happy at school. (Don't worry too much if your child seems nervous during the first few weeks of school. Back-to-school days are always tough.)
How to find out how your child feels about school
Talk to your child frequently about school "The real key is communication," says Guy Strickland, author of Bad Teachers: The Essential Guide for Concerned Parents. Set up a regular time to discuss school events: before dinner, during dinner, during bath time, whenever. Your child might not want to share bad news about school, especially information about punishment. Encourage an open discussion with questions such as How does the teacher treat the class? How do the other kids like school? and What did the teacher tell everyone in class to do?
Ask detailed questions Don't just ask, "How was school today?" and settle for "Okay." "You can't necessarily trust a child's answer to this question," says Gwynn Mettetal, associate professor of education at Indiana University South Bend and mother of two. Instead she suggests you ask questions that will elicit more than one-word answers. Ask her which subjects are her favorites and which are the hardest. Find out what she likes best about the teacher. Other good questions include What's your favorite part of the day? and Which friends do you hang out with during lunch and recess?
Volunteer in class Spending just one hour in the classroom once a month will give you a read on your child's feelings about school. You'll also get a chance to see how the teacher runs the class. Mettetal discovered that her daughter was unhappy in school when another parent volunteer noticed Mettetal's daughter wasn't working very hard. Mettetal investigated and confirmed it. Her daughter felt the work was too easy and she was bored. The solution: They moved her to the next grade.
Keep in touch with the teacher The teacher spends five days a week with your child. If your child suddenly seems unhappy at school or has problems with a group of friends, the teacher might know more about the situation than you do. Get tips on communicating with your child's teacher.
Ask detailed questions Don't just ask, "How was school today?" and settle for "Okay." "You can't necessarily trust a child's answer to this question," says Gwynn Mettetal, associate professor of education at Indiana University South Bend and mother of two. Instead she suggests you ask questions that will elicit more than one-word answers. Ask her which subjects are her favorites and which are the hardest. Find out what she likes best about the teacher. Other good questions include What's your favorite part of the day? and Which friends do you hang out with during lunch and recess?
Volunteer in class Spending just one hour in the classroom once a month will give you a read on your child's feelings about school. You'll also get a chance to see how the teacher runs the class. Mettetal discovered that her daughter was unhappy in school when another parent volunteer noticed Mettetal's daughter wasn't working very hard. Mettetal investigated and confirmed it. Her daughter felt the work was too easy and she was bored. The solution: They moved her to the next grade.
Keep in touch with the teacher The teacher spends five days a week with your child. If your child suddenly seems unhappy at school or has problems with a group of friends, the teacher might know more about the situation than you do. Get tips on communicating with your child's teacher.
Warning signs that your child is unhappy
Stomachaches or diarrhea before school An occasional episode is common for most children, but if you notice a recurring problem, your child might be worried about something at school.
Nervousness Your child develops unusual ticks such as nail biting, thumb sucking, hair pulling, or bed-wetting.
Silence Your child stops talking about school or gets nervous when you bring up the teacher, homework, or anything school related.
Boredom Your child is disinterested in schoolwork and homework, or no longer brings work home from class. (This could be a sign that your child is finishing everything at school and needs more advanced work.) See tips on how to help a child who's bored in school.
Fear of returning to school in the fall Kids love summer vacation, but most are ready to return to school in August. If your child isn't, find out why. More tips on how to work with a child who isn't enjoying school.
Nervousness Your child develops unusual ticks such as nail biting, thumb sucking, hair pulling, or bed-wetting.
Silence Your child stops talking about school or gets nervous when you bring up the teacher, homework, or anything school related.
Boredom Your child is disinterested in schoolwork and homework, or no longer brings work home from class. (This could be a sign that your child is finishing everything at school and needs more advanced work.) See tips on how to help a child who's bored in school.
Fear of returning to school in the fall Kids love summer vacation, but most are ready to return to school in August. If your child isn't, find out why. More tips on how to work with a child who isn't enjoying school.
Guide to Video and Computer Games
I would like to share an article that I found from Baby Center.
Recently, Timmy has been playing computer games non-stop and it has been my concern.
Luckily I found this article and would like to share it with you.
Do you have an issue with computer games?
Does you child like to play computer games?
Recently, Timmy has been playing computer games non-stop and it has been my concern.
Luckily I found this article and would like to share it with you.
Do you have an issue with computer games?
Does you child like to play computer games?
A parent's guide to video and computer games
by Kevin Simpson
Electronic games dazzle us with cutting-edge graphics, excite us with seemingly boundless possibilities, and probably frighten us with the power they have over our kids. In our house, my 7-year-old son Zach has searched for dinosaurs, paddled the Amazon, explored the human body, learned Bible stories, and played 18 holes at Pebble Beach. And while he's no hard-core gamer — he'll still sometimes choose a box of 64 crayons over 64-bit graphics — I'm aware of the huge influence these games can have over him, for better or for worse.
As the market and influence of electronic games continues to grow, parents need to understand a few basics, such as why our kids are attracted to these addictive games, what they can learn from them, and how to avoid some inherent pitfalls.
As the market and influence of electronic games continues to grow, parents need to understand a few basics, such as why our kids are attracted to these addictive games, what they can learn from them, and how to avoid some inherent pitfalls.
Why kids LOVE electronic games
Lightning-fast processing speed, thundering audio, tantalizing graphics — certainly they're part of the allure, but they're really just window-dressing around the most elemental attraction: control. "Many kids, on a minute-to-minute basis, are told what to do, what to wear, what activities they can or can't do," says Warren Buckleitner, editor of Children's Software Revue. When they get their hands on a mouse or a game controller, they can dothings that they may not be able to do in the real word, he notes — such as race cars, explore haunted houses, play sports with the pros — heady stuff for a 5-year-old.
Choosing good games
Of course, this empowerment cuts both ways, depending on whether the software channels it toward constructive or destructive behavior. Luckily, it's fairly easy to spot a good game — simply apply what you know about play in general to the video game market. "Good software is based on principles of play that have existed forever," Buckleitner says. Just like the kind of play your child enjoys in his own backyard, quality games offer intriguing searches, unexpected surprises, healthy sports competition — elements as old and entertaining as hide-and-go-seek.
Another way to ensure good choices? "Start with your child's interests," says Buckleitner. "You can also use that rule backward, too: What would I like my child to be exposed to more?" A former teacher, Buckleitner often watched students in the early grades struggle over their math and spelling abilities. But computer software can introduce formal academics in a playful, stress-free setting. Serious subjects tend to lose their intimidating edge when children encounter them in the comfortable context of entertainment.
But games don't have to be obviously educational to be teaching something. Even seemingly frivolous games can be packed with unexpected lessons. The hockey game I play with my son generates discussions about geography and international politics ("Dad, show me on the map where the Vancouver Canucks play," and "Why did the Russian team change its name from the Soviet Union?").
Another way to ensure good choices? "Start with your child's interests," says Buckleitner. "You can also use that rule backward, too: What would I like my child to be exposed to more?" A former teacher, Buckleitner often watched students in the early grades struggle over their math and spelling abilities. But computer software can introduce formal academics in a playful, stress-free setting. Serious subjects tend to lose their intimidating edge when children encounter them in the comfortable context of entertainment.
But games don't have to be obviously educational to be teaching something. Even seemingly frivolous games can be packed with unexpected lessons. The hockey game I play with my son generates discussions about geography and international politics ("Dad, show me on the map where the Vancouver Canucks play," and "Why did the Russian team change its name from the Soviet Union?").
Handling violence in video games
This same hockey game also contains occasional fighting, and although nobody gets hurt, there's no graphic gore, and every scuffle ends with the play-by-play announcer admonishing the combatants as they skate off to the penalty box, the inevitable question arises: Do violent games create violent kids?
Over the last 20 years, studies have come down on all sides of the issue but produced no bottom-line clinical evidence that life imitates virtual reality. Even so, highly publicized incidents of school violence, some involving kids who dabbled in the games, have kept controversy roiling. "We're saying it's worth being concerned about," says Douglas Gentile, director of research for the National Institute on Media and the Family in Minneapolis. "But we're not out there waving a red flag."
What can concerned parents do? For starters, keep your antennae up. One survey by the institute revealed that 80 percent of high school kids were familiar with the popular shoot-'em-up title "Duke Nukem." Only 5 percent of parents had even heard of it. It's never too soon to tune in to your child's interests.
It also pays to read the reviews and pay attention to the ratings of kids' software. For quick guidance, the Entertainment Software Rating Board rates more than 6,500 titles from "early childhood" to "adults only." If the ESRB system has a weak link, it's enforcement by retailers. A good rule for parents: Know what your children buy, or be there when they buy it. Better yet, play it.
Over the last 20 years, studies have come down on all sides of the issue but produced no bottom-line clinical evidence that life imitates virtual reality. Even so, highly publicized incidents of school violence, some involving kids who dabbled in the games, have kept controversy roiling. "We're saying it's worth being concerned about," says Douglas Gentile, director of research for the National Institute on Media and the Family in Minneapolis. "But we're not out there waving a red flag."
What can concerned parents do? For starters, keep your antennae up. One survey by the institute revealed that 80 percent of high school kids were familiar with the popular shoot-'em-up title "Duke Nukem." Only 5 percent of parents had even heard of it. It's never too soon to tune in to your child's interests.
It also pays to read the reviews and pay attention to the ratings of kids' software. For quick guidance, the Entertainment Software Rating Board rates more than 6,500 titles from "early childhood" to "adults only." If the ESRB system has a weak link, it's enforcement by retailers. A good rule for parents: Know what your children buy, or be there when they buy it. Better yet, play it.
How much is too much?
Even the best computer games — especially the best — can be addictive. And too much time spent in front of a computer screen has negative consequences. "Heavy users of electronic media tend to have fewer activities, fewer hobbies, play less well with peers, and not do as well in school," says Gentile. "Light users tend to get the benefit of the media."
In 1998, Neilsen Media Research reported that the average American child or adolescent spends more than 21 hours a week watching TV. And that doesn't count time spent surfing the Web or playing video games. So when you're calculating reasonable parameters for your child, think overall "screen time." Gentile recommends between one and two hours of screen time per day, but notes that there are no magic numbers. More important is to encourage a variety of activities and emphasize balance.
Other ways to ensure that time spent at the computer emphasizes quality over quantity include:
In 1998, Neilsen Media Research reported that the average American child or adolescent spends more than 21 hours a week watching TV. And that doesn't count time spent surfing the Web or playing video games. So when you're calculating reasonable parameters for your child, think overall "screen time." Gentile recommends between one and two hours of screen time per day, but notes that there are no magic numbers. More important is to encourage a variety of activities and emphasize balance.
Other ways to ensure that time spent at the computer emphasizes quality over quantity include:
- Be clear that computer games are a privilege, to be used only with parental permission.
- Make computer games a social, rather than solitary, activity. Experts emphasize the importance of keeping the hardware — whether it's TV game consoles or desktop systems — in a family area. Not only does this reduce the possibility that your child will isolate himself, but it gives you a chance to keep an eye on the screen. The American Academy of Pediatrics goes so far as to advise parents to keep their kids' room "electronic media-free."
- Place a piano bench — rather than a chair — in front of the family computer to invite multiple players, Buckleitner suggests.
Getting up to speed
One of the best and easiest ways to police your child's playing is to play the games with her. For young kids, simply seat them on your lap. That's what Buckleitner does with his kindergarten-age daughter when they compete in virtual auto racing against her big sister.
And if you're a technophobe, don't let intimidating technology or jargon stop you from playing with your child. While it's true that some genres of video games practically have their own language, kids under 8 won't be talking over your head.
That said, be prepared for some humiliation. When I reluctantly showed my son how to play my "fairly complex" computer hockey software, the student quickly became the tutor. While I futilely forced sports logic on the game, Zach easily adapted to the software's idiosyncrasies. "Here, Dad," he said just a little impatiently. "Let me show you how to score a goal." I try not to take the losing too hard (I take these opportunities to teach him how to be a gracious winner). Remember, kids cut their teeth on this stuff. They should be better. Plus, kids talk, picking up tips from friends (beware the teen babysitter).
The important thing to remember is that there's no substitute for parental involvement, even in electronic games. So after your little gamer thrashes you in "Backyard Football," take him out in the front yard and teach him Kick the Can. You rule.
And if you're a technophobe, don't let intimidating technology or jargon stop you from playing with your child. While it's true that some genres of video games practically have their own language, kids under 8 won't be talking over your head.
That said, be prepared for some humiliation. When I reluctantly showed my son how to play my "fairly complex" computer hockey software, the student quickly became the tutor. While I futilely forced sports logic on the game, Zach easily adapted to the software's idiosyncrasies. "Here, Dad," he said just a little impatiently. "Let me show you how to score a goal." I try not to take the losing too hard (I take these opportunities to teach him how to be a gracious winner). Remember, kids cut their teeth on this stuff. They should be better. Plus, kids talk, picking up tips from friends (beware the teen babysitter).
The important thing to remember is that there's no substitute for parental involvement, even in electronic games. So after your little gamer thrashes you in "Backyard Football," take him out in the front yard and teach him Kick the Can. You rule.
Angry Birds
Timmy has been playing Angry Birds with his Dad.
Angry Birds fever is here now, and we can get all sorts of Angry Birds things around;
stationary, note-books, t-shirt, bottles, pencil case, bags, etc.
Timmy's first exposure to Angry Birds was on 16th August 2011.
We were at a computer shop and we saw Acer's touch-screen pad, which had Angry Birds game in it.
I started playing with it, (which I don't really know how. hehehe) and Timmy joined in.
Not long after, another boy (who was really good at this game) came and he started to teach Timmy how to play this game. That's how it all get started in the first place.
Looking at both of them playing together behind the screen,
to me, it reminded me of my university days when I was doing projects and assignments with friends.
But this time round, it seemed like looking at my son doing "Angry Birds" project with a friend. Hahaha...
Here are the pictures of them "doing projects" (a.k.a. playing) together. hehehe...
Papa then downloaded the game into our computer and the "father and son" started playing together.
I found Angry Birds T-shirt at the market and bought 2 T-shirts. One is red, the other one is black, thinking that one is for me and the one is for Timmy. He liked it instantly and has been asking to wear it.
He wore it to his friend's, Steve, 6th birthday party...
and Timmy found another boy who was wearing a red Angry Bird T-shirt too. They played the slide, going up and down together. :)
For Timmy's 6th birthday, both Timmy and I made a simple hand-made birthday card together,
with all the "Angry Birds". Here are the photos...
Dear Timmy,
We wish you a happy birthday, filled with lots of fun and happiness.
May you grow into a wise man one day.
6 years ago, you just came out from my tummy...
and now, you are a BIG boy, who can do lots of things on your own.
May you have a kind heart, filled with joy and peace.
Love,
Papa and Mama
08 January 2012
2012
May this new year brings many opportunities our way, to explore every joy of our life, and may our resolutions of the days ahead stay firm,
turning all our dreams into reality, and all our efforts into great achievement.
On the new years eve, we saw lots of wonderful fireworks right beside our house, just around the neighbourhood... Would like to share it with you...
Woof! Woof!
My youngest brother birthday falls on 1st of January each year.
I was thinking of making something for him...
Since he was born in the year of dog,
I made this cute little doggie with the toilet tube...
Here's how we made it:
1. Cut out 1/4 of the toilet paper for the ear.
2. We paint the outside and the inside brown.
3. Draw the eyes, nose and mouth.
4. Paint dark brown spots around the toilet roll, to make pattern of the body.
5. Paint the ear black.
6. Draw the red tongue.
7. Voila! With the same steps, I made the doggie junior. hehehe...
Woof! Woof!
I was thinking of making something for him...
Since he was born in the year of dog,
I made this cute little doggie with the toilet tube...
Here's how we made it:
1. Cut out 1/4 of the toilet paper for the ear.
2. We paint the outside and the inside brown.
3. Draw the eyes, nose and mouth.
4. Paint dark brown spots around the toilet roll, to make pattern of the body.
5. Paint the ear black.
6. Draw the red tongue.
7. Voila! With the same steps, I made the doggie junior. hehehe...
Woof! Woof!
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