Weekend Photo - Imaginary Games

By AdventureDad on September 12th, 2008 Print This Post Email This Post

As a father I try to keep a nice balance between discipline and exploration. I give them freedom few other parents might but it's always well earned. I call my parenting style firm but flexible. My kids have good manners, behave well around adults and kids, and can eat at any restaurant. It's like we have some secret agreement. The kids can do crazy things at time but they know it's a perk and not "for real". Which is why I let my son "play airport" in the living room. Would you let your son dump all his toys on your new couch?

I talked about this with Foxy Wife and we agree it's a good idea. My son behaves like a dream wherever he is, he's also an amazing big brother to his 2-year old sister. Not exactly the easiest thing in the world. We like him to behave well but also to explore. We want him to test limits, that's how kids learn. Which is why I have trouble getting mad when he proudly tells me he's playing airport in the living room. That means dumping everything on the living room couch and then dividing stuff up into different bags. No exactly my idea of a nice and relaxing Friday evening.

But I love his imagination and know he's genuinely into his airport game. We need to let our kids explore and do some crazy things at times. Of course my son knows he must help to clean the mess up later but he's fine with that. We keep our place nice and clean but I see many parents not letting their kids do anything since the house might get messy. I guess what I'm saying is let the kids explore, have fun and do some crazy stuff as long as they have your confidence, behave well in general, and aren't assholes about it.

You might also like taking a loook at this, this , and this photo from previous experiences. You've been warned, it might lead to increased blood pressure, heavy sweating, and feelings of anxiety.