Dear Amy: I had a 42-year career as a speech-language pathologist, working with young children.I made sure to provide my own children with play-based preschool opportunities. As they grew and showed interest in certain activities, we provided those opportunities for them in art, music, and sports.Our son and his wife are the parents of two children, ages three and one.
Her parents haven’t enrolled her in a regular preschool yet, but they apparently are fine with this environment.I have not responded to the most recent “cheer” photos and am not sure how to approach my son and his wife about my concerns. When you do – you should prepare yourself for the likelihood that these parents will react badly, cut you off, and continue exercising their judgment without regard for your views.I happen to share your opinion, as well as your concerns, regarding toddler “cheer” squads, “beauty” pageants, and the like. But these parents have the right to be flawed – or terrible – parents. They may continue making unenlightened choices throughout.
I think you should continue to be extremely judicious in your reactions, and also force yourself to attend one of these competitions.Dear Amy: I recently moved to a new home in a small town. My house is in close proximity to my neighbors’ on either side .A good friend of mine has strongly suggested that I should make brownies and take them to my neighbors, as I introduce myself to them.