Comments on: Griddlesode #S2-010: Helpful or Harmful?

By: Barbara

Barbara — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 22:52:08 +0000

As the mother of a 9 year-old boy (my youngest of three), this really struck my heart because not only do I have to be careful about not measuring his work with my own yardstick, but also those of his 13 and 15 year old siblings. Sometimes I am the cause of those slumped shoulders–I’d rather have a sharp stick in the eye!
On the other hand, we all dread science fairs and stay far away from them if at all possible! We all actually enjoy science and learning–just hate the whole project scene.

By: Jeff

Jeff — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 16:35:57 +0000

My friend Scott and I listened to this and immediately thought, “Crud!” You are so right! Maybe as fathers of boys it is easier to squash their enthusiasm for something by offering to “help” than we realized. Thanks for pointing out the problem! I hope all the food in your pantry turns into NECCO wafers (or conversation hearts, as it’s that tiime of year!)

By: Ron (The Griddlemaster)

Ron (The Griddlemaster) — Sun, 28 Jan 2007 12:38:46 +0000

Thank you so much for the comment and the compliments, Linda. It’s funny, but when I started Griddlecakes Radio, I had no idea that it’s listener base would include children. I just tell the stories. But in the almost year and a half of producing the show, I find that the most rewarding thing to me is that parents and children listen to the show together.
I didn’t plan it, but I’m glad that it worked out that way.

By: Linda

Linda — Sun, 28 Jan 2007 10:58:36 +0000

Your closing comments are phrased beautifully. Parents are teachers, but just as we wouldn’t want our 4th grade teacher to expect work on a level of a college student, we need to avoid the temptation to bring our child’s work up to a level we would find personally acceptable. Parents who are involved at an earlier stage with the project need to resist the temptation to take it over, which can be even more devastating to the child since they see it as a sign that the parent doesn’t trust the child’s abilities. You have a gift for telling stories that are entertaining and thought-provoking on many levels, for children and adults alike. Our family have become devoted “griddleheads” and love playing griddlesodes for our children’s friends!

By: Ron

Ron — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 05:40:19 +0000

Kevin,
A Science Fair coach…that’s great. I think the last Science Fair that I attended was the one I won! Um, I think I saw a Science Fair in the movie October Sky!
Thanks for listening and dropping me a line.
Ron

By: Ron

Ron — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 05:38:10 +0000

Thanks for the invite, Kimmy. If Tara and I are ever in the Richmond area, we’ll take you up on your offer!

By: ShortCummingsAudio

ShortCummingsAudio — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 02:12:00 +0000

Ron–
As a Dad and verteran Science Fair coach I really enjoyed this episode. It took me right back to all of the years we’ve spent helping our sons prepare for competitions.
I always enjoy your show and look forward to listening to each new episode.
Regards,
Kevin

By: Shimmer.Glimpse

Shimmer.Glimpse — Tue, 23 Jan 2007 19:50:51 +0000

One more family who’s in love with Griddlecakes Radio. Thanks for producing such a fantastic show, telling meaningful and entertaining stories and making it fun for the whole family!
If you’re ever in Richmond , Virginia, you and yours are invited to dinner ! Seriously!!
Kimmy (34), Cruxien (7), and Anwen (nearly 3)