5 and counting!

Natalie had a breakthrough this week. When she turned four she was able to do simple additions like 7 + 9, but in a mechanical way. She'd draw seven lines, then nine, count the number of lines, and write down the resulting number.

This week, however, she was able to figure out 6 + 1, and then 6 + 2, and 8 + 3, without using any tools but her brain, truly understanding addition.

It feels like I have been trying to create a fire for two years with a mirror and sunlight, and now I see some smoke. When I blow I see it glowing. Soon there will be a blaze. Exciting!

Who taught her that?

Dad> Natalie, what number comes after 39?

Natalie> Papa, I don't want to have a conversation about that right now.

Character Sandpapering

Child> Can you get me a drink, papa?
I> (Whispering) You forgot the magic word.
Child> Can You get me a drink, papa?
I> I did not hear the magic word.
Child> (Shouting) I WANT MY DRINK!
I> That does not work.
Child> ...
Child> Can you get me a drink, please?
I> Sure!

As you sow, so shall you reap

Months ago I tried to teach Natalie's little brother "The grass is green, the sky is blue, and I love you." It seemed too hard for him, so I let it go. Last night at bed time I said: "I love you." His reply: "The grass is green, ky blue, and I love you."

She wears them at night

Natalie is one of those girls who just loves ballet. At times she must wear a tutu. And we can do her no greater favor than letting her take a ballet class.

Today was the first day of her new class. She was thrilled to wear her new apparel. The whole day she kept her ballet shoes on. She is asleep now, probably dreaming of piques, positions, and pirouettes. She is certainly wearing the right shoes for them ...

Proud

Today Natalie surprised me (again). I asked her what she had learned at school today. She said she had worked with a pentagon. Yes, you read that right: a pentagon. Never mind she is three years old (well, almost four). She knows about pentagons. That's my daughter.

I am so glad I can have her attend the Montessori school. So glad.

Back to school

Now that Natalie attends pre-school, the whole family is being educated. When daddy (after a long and tiring day!) lets his elbows rest on the table during dinner, she is quick to remark:

No elbows on the table, papa!

And she is right. Proper posture yields superior results. Can't wait to find out what else I will learn again...