A Converstion With Josh

Josh: "Look what I made, Mom."

I see 3 pieces of paper individually folded in half then taped shut with a small toy in each one.

Me: "Wow, Bud, what are they?"

Josh: "Guess."

(Oh boy, I better guess right so I don't hurt his feelings.)

Me: "Tacos?"

Josh: "No."

Me: "Um, I don't know."

Josh: "They're tortillas!"

(At least I was in the same ethnic category.)

Me: "Good job, Bud. What kind are they?"

Josh: "This one's cheese."

There is a yellow airplane inside.

I decided to use this opportunity for a life lesson since he has been having some frustrations with his paper cutting and taping.

Me: "So when you made these did you try your very best?"

Josh: "Yes."

Me: (Thinking that I am gonna really get him with this lesson, it's gonna hit home! I am so proud of myself.) "So, when you are making something is it more important to try your best or to do it perfectly?"

Josh: "Well, I always try my best so that I can do it perfectly."

Me: "You little turkey..."

Joshua has been working very hard at his art work and designs, but he gets frustrated and VERY discouraged so easily. It is nearly impossible to convince him that he is doing a good job especially if his design doesn't come out perfectly. And by the time he is in full frustration mode, I can't convince him of anything. Then, guess what happens? I get frustrated and make him put all the scissors, paper, tape and pens away all the while telling him that the best way to get really good at something is to practice. Poor kid must be so confused. Let's see, he needs to practice, but Mom is too frustrated with his frustration to let him...PRACTICE! You never know how hard it is going to be as a parent until you are in the throws of it. So I will continue to try MY best to encourage him so that he can practice his art work as much as he needs to without losing my mind.