Wednesday, May 8, 2013

The Power of 3!



So, I am the first to admit, being a parent  is not easy. For those of you who disagree, you are   A.Lying,   B.Lying or   C. Lying. If you are a parent who does everything you can to promote learning, develop a well rounded off-spring  - then, pray, close your eyes and hope for the best. You are not alone! I was always told that a 2 year old was easier than a teen..whoever said that was right! They are a different being, a unknown character- hugs one minute and rejection the next. And, the best part – this is normal. They are as confused as we are. It was a big deal when I was a kid – but, today it is amplified. Conversations that I was hoping to wait until later, were expedited. I had no choice but to go with the flow and be ready for confrontations at any moment. Every parent has a different method for approaching the “tough” subjects. For me, there was no rehersal. Originally, I had a plan – it looked formal and precise. That idea was tossed out the window when a couple of years ago, Trent informed me that “John told me on the bus, that his sister would have never gotten pregnant if SHE would have used a condom.” EEEEEEK! GASP! Well, after I took a couple deep breaths (and splashed cold water on my face) – I dove right in!  This wasn’t a “dollar menu” convo. This was the Supersized Value Meal – Crap! We addressed a “few” subjects.  It was honest, quick and fact driven. I didn’t sweat, he giggled and we moved on. It opened the door to the matter-of-fact approach and the rule that “nothing is too embarrassed to be discussed”. Well, this is where I am today – almost age 13, ask me next year – when I am sure things will change.

Recently, I took along my preteen on a business trip – It was a great way to spend some one on one time with an underlining motive. The motive was to discuss current social topics – home, school and in our country. It was successful. We also took in awesome movies that produced great dialogue. Sometimes, as parents we just need an icebreaker (kind of like John on the bus) – this time, it was the movie.

The movie opens the door –then, it’s just a simple…Hey, How did you like the movie? Did anything like this ever happen in your world? What would you do different now? Do you have any questions for me?  Trust me; the conversation will just take off. One tip – typically, a movie with mom will get rolled eyes and “your movies are stupid”…I suggest popcorn and lots of candy – it softens the blow!


I have already done the leg work for you…these are fantastic movies for any age. Most importantly, they will promote a discussion between family members, peers and great internal dialogue.
Do not let “special needs” or “disability” changes your thoughts on watching the first 2 suggestions. This is the world that are children are growing up in. Raising children to be culturally aware, culturally educated and the ability to completely accept (regardless of capability and color) is the best gift we can give to them.
1. Including Samuel – less than 1hr
**Inclusion of Special Needs Children in their home and school – and the impact on community.
You can watch it online here –

2. Monica and David-less than 1 hr.
**What does marriage look like? Does a disability matter? Involvement of parents in adult relationships.
Netflix, Amazon

3. 42 – less than 2 hr.
**The story of Jackie Robinson, wonderful insight into black history, baseball. How far have we come? Acceptance? And, how much further our country needs to go towards equality.
In theatres now!

Don’t forget the extra butter J
Enjoy! I would love your feedback!
-Stacey

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