Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] video games / computer games
Elizabeth Hill
>Quitting because you're finished gives a huge feeling ofHow many levels does a typical Nintendo game have? I worry that "finished"
>satisfaction which quitting because the bell rang or your mom said 'stop'
>doesn't.
can take a huge amount of time to achieve.
>Nintendo 64My 6 year old is asking for Nintendo, which he enjoys playing when he
>Super Nintendo
>NES (original/plain Nintendo which is where Dr. Mario, my favorite game,
>lives)
>Play Station
>game boys (3, not all surfaced these days)
>three computers, all with games, and the boys are discussing getting
>Realmz
>for the new iMac
>five TVs, three with VCRs
visits his cousins. What would be a cheap way to gratify his wishes? Can
I get an old model and buy mostly used games?
Betsy
[email protected]
-=-My son is currently obsessed with
SuperMarioWorld on his Super Nintendo, and would be
perfectly content playing it by himself allllllll day,
-of course I don't let him<g>--=-
Why not? Now many days do you think it would last?
(I have experience.)
-=-but I
think that him playing the video game is actually GOOD
for him, provided he isn't playing something I feel
would be destructive for him --he isn't allowed to
play violent games of any sort, or shooting games,
which only leaves ones that require him to use his
problem solving skills, logic, CONCENTRATION, and
persistance-=-
The shooting games have skill-solving, logic, concentration and persistance
too!
-=--=-but I
think that him playing the video game is actually GOOD
for him, provided... -=-
A lot of people here WILL agree with you, but at least one will question the
proviso <g>.
If a child is fascinated by and engrossed in something, what are legitimate
reasons to make him stop? I've heard a hundred spurious ones over the years.
My mom said several times to me, in the tone of voice you'd think would be
saved for people doing something really disgusting, "Get your nose out of
that book and go outside and play." Because she couldn't see the value in
what I was doing, and it didn't involve her, she wanted me to stop. It
didn't matter to her what was going on in the book when she swooped in and
changed my life, it only mattered that she felt for a moment that she was
being a good mother by directing my activities.
How would any of you like it if you were right in the middle of writing one
of the best things you ever wrote (no matter how long you had been at the
computer) and someone twice your size (or just your mother) blasted in
without even waiting politely to see if you were at a stopping place and
commanded you to turn it off or said "That's enough" or "your brain will rot"
or "isn't there something better you could be doing?" Probably there's
something better SHE could be doing.
And if nothing else in the house is more involving or alluring than that
video game, maybe your child knows what he's doing, sticking with the best
thing available to him, or maybe you need to look at his options and improve
the competition.
But limiting it will make it more valuable, and will affect our child's
opinon of your judgment for good or ill. Don't imagine that the kids are
unaware of the relative value (to them) of things including moms' opinions.
If you let him quit when he's done, he WILL quit, and he will have been
empowered to finish things when he's finished instead of living by the
clock--and that's one of the coolest things about unschooling, is going by
interest and self-motivation instead of daily and weekly and monthly
schedules. Quitting because you're finished gives a huge feeling of
satisfaction which quitting because the bell rang or your mom said 'stop'
doesn't.
Sandra
who lives in a house with three kids, usually two or three visiting kids
(only one stayed last night), and:
Nintendo 64
Super Nintendo
NES (original/plain Nintendo which is where Dr. Mario, my favorite game,
lives)
Play Station
game boys (3, not all surfaced these days)
three computers, all with games, and the boys are discussing getting Realmz
for the new iMac
five TVs, three with VCRs
and very often NONE of them are turned on, and the boys are playing games
involving cards or disks or paper and pencil, and Holly is out on her scooter
or playing with dolls or drawing and singing
Many of those games (electronic and otherwise) are bought by the kids with
their own money.
SuperMarioWorld on his Super Nintendo, and would be
perfectly content playing it by himself allllllll day,
-of course I don't let him<g>--=-
Why not? Now many days do you think it would last?
(I have experience.)
-=-but I
think that him playing the video game is actually GOOD
for him, provided he isn't playing something I feel
would be destructive for him --he isn't allowed to
play violent games of any sort, or shooting games,
which only leaves ones that require him to use his
problem solving skills, logic, CONCENTRATION, and
persistance-=-
The shooting games have skill-solving, logic, concentration and persistance
too!
-=--=-but I
think that him playing the video game is actually GOOD
for him, provided... -=-
A lot of people here WILL agree with you, but at least one will question the
proviso <g>.
If a child is fascinated by and engrossed in something, what are legitimate
reasons to make him stop? I've heard a hundred spurious ones over the years.
My mom said several times to me, in the tone of voice you'd think would be
saved for people doing something really disgusting, "Get your nose out of
that book and go outside and play." Because she couldn't see the value in
what I was doing, and it didn't involve her, she wanted me to stop. It
didn't matter to her what was going on in the book when she swooped in and
changed my life, it only mattered that she felt for a moment that she was
being a good mother by directing my activities.
How would any of you like it if you were right in the middle of writing one
of the best things you ever wrote (no matter how long you had been at the
computer) and someone twice your size (or just your mother) blasted in
without even waiting politely to see if you were at a stopping place and
commanded you to turn it off or said "That's enough" or "your brain will rot"
or "isn't there something better you could be doing?" Probably there's
something better SHE could be doing.
And if nothing else in the house is more involving or alluring than that
video game, maybe your child knows what he's doing, sticking with the best
thing available to him, or maybe you need to look at his options and improve
the competition.
But limiting it will make it more valuable, and will affect our child's
opinon of your judgment for good or ill. Don't imagine that the kids are
unaware of the relative value (to them) of things including moms' opinions.
If you let him quit when he's done, he WILL quit, and he will have been
empowered to finish things when he's finished instead of living by the
clock--and that's one of the coolest things about unschooling, is going by
interest and self-motivation instead of daily and weekly and monthly
schedules. Quitting because you're finished gives a huge feeling of
satisfaction which quitting because the bell rang or your mom said 'stop'
doesn't.
Sandra
who lives in a house with three kids, usually two or three visiting kids
(only one stayed last night), and:
Nintendo 64
Super Nintendo
NES (original/plain Nintendo which is where Dr. Mario, my favorite game,
lives)
Play Station
game boys (3, not all surfaced these days)
three computers, all with games, and the boys are discussing getting Realmz
for the new iMac
five TVs, three with VCRs
and very often NONE of them are turned on, and the boys are playing games
involving cards or disks or paper and pencil, and Holly is out on her scooter
or playing with dolls or drawing and singing
Many of those games (electronic and otherwise) are bought by the kids with
their own money.
[email protected]
Hi, I must admit that around here the kids are not allowed to play video
games or watch tv as much or whenever they want. First off, we only have two
pcs (and one is older which I use for work and does not run games well), and
we have one playstation and one tv with vcr. If I let the kids use the pc or
tv as much as they wanted then there would be an endless fight over who's
turn it was and fights get really old, really fast. Recently my kids decided
to raise dogs and have bought breeding stock and have puppies that need
constant care. We also believe that dogs need exercise (no matter how many
you nave), so that is another chore that needs to be done daily. Although the
kids were gung-ho to do these chores in the beginning now it is not as much
fun. Some days it is cold, or they just got a new game that they are dying to
play. The kids tried the "lets play playstation or pc first before doing
morning chores" routine but I could not allow this, animals need care first.
And the dog thing was their idea not mine. I do help out but it is their
business. Yesterday the kids went (with own money) and bought two more pups,
more work and responsibility. The kids have more pens to build and just
finished repairing an old doghouse. It has turned into a lot of work. And now
the kids are reading dog books aloud, learning how to manage their new
business and housebreak pups. But still the video games and tv call to them
to come and play, they are so much fun. I make sure the kids at least get
half an hour to play these video type games and some days they may each play
an hour and they watch tv in the evenings with Dad, (while taking turns
taking pups out). If I did let them out of their chores to do as they wanted
then that means I would have to do their chores and mine and what would they
learn from that? That Mom or someone will be there to cover for them?
Many unschoolers like to read about the Colfax's or Holt's ideals but neither
had these types of distractions to deal with.
If I was totally involved in writing my best piece I would hate to have to
stop but in reality this happens all the time. If I am totally involved in
something and the kids, animals, chores, meals or whatever needs my attention
I stop and take care of it. Isn't that something that too needs to be learned?
I have a daughter that can read for hours. I have no problem with that at all
as long as she is handling her share of the chores. You can imagine how much
her siblings complain if they have to take her turn at doing a chores because
she is reading. It just doesn't work. I do require that the kids help out
with housework, garden, and yard work. I try to make it a minimum, I know
kids need free time and I am not picky or a perfectionist, making them work
all the time. But it is next to impossible for me do it all with four kids
and a husband that works 60 hrs a week. I need their help and if the kids and
I get after the work it does not take long to finish.
We have a new game for the pc, Age of Empires 2, really a cool game. So I try
to work it out so the kids can play a little more. I know it takes a long
time to get set up in it. This morning I got up early and did the dog chores
for them. That gives the kids some extra free time and so they are taking
turns with the pc. I like to do that sometimes but I do not have time to do
it all the time. I love the game Age of Empires 1 but I only let myself play
once a week. It is too time consuming.
I think that it is great that many kids have lots of free time to spend with
their friends, projects, games, etc. I think it is important that every
family decide what is best for their family. Or do you disagree and think I
should still allow my kids to do what they wish whenever they wish?
Candy
Who wants to play Age of Empire but instead has to go cut wood because
husband had to work and we are out. :(
games or watch tv as much or whenever they want. First off, we only have two
pcs (and one is older which I use for work and does not run games well), and
we have one playstation and one tv with vcr. If I let the kids use the pc or
tv as much as they wanted then there would be an endless fight over who's
turn it was and fights get really old, really fast. Recently my kids decided
to raise dogs and have bought breeding stock and have puppies that need
constant care. We also believe that dogs need exercise (no matter how many
you nave), so that is another chore that needs to be done daily. Although the
kids were gung-ho to do these chores in the beginning now it is not as much
fun. Some days it is cold, or they just got a new game that they are dying to
play. The kids tried the "lets play playstation or pc first before doing
morning chores" routine but I could not allow this, animals need care first.
And the dog thing was their idea not mine. I do help out but it is their
business. Yesterday the kids went (with own money) and bought two more pups,
more work and responsibility. The kids have more pens to build and just
finished repairing an old doghouse. It has turned into a lot of work. And now
the kids are reading dog books aloud, learning how to manage their new
business and housebreak pups. But still the video games and tv call to them
to come and play, they are so much fun. I make sure the kids at least get
half an hour to play these video type games and some days they may each play
an hour and they watch tv in the evenings with Dad, (while taking turns
taking pups out). If I did let them out of their chores to do as they wanted
then that means I would have to do their chores and mine and what would they
learn from that? That Mom or someone will be there to cover for them?
Many unschoolers like to read about the Colfax's or Holt's ideals but neither
had these types of distractions to deal with.
If I was totally involved in writing my best piece I would hate to have to
stop but in reality this happens all the time. If I am totally involved in
something and the kids, animals, chores, meals or whatever needs my attention
I stop and take care of it. Isn't that something that too needs to be learned?
I have a daughter that can read for hours. I have no problem with that at all
as long as she is handling her share of the chores. You can imagine how much
her siblings complain if they have to take her turn at doing a chores because
she is reading. It just doesn't work. I do require that the kids help out
with housework, garden, and yard work. I try to make it a minimum, I know
kids need free time and I am not picky or a perfectionist, making them work
all the time. But it is next to impossible for me do it all with four kids
and a husband that works 60 hrs a week. I need their help and if the kids and
I get after the work it does not take long to finish.
We have a new game for the pc, Age of Empires 2, really a cool game. So I try
to work it out so the kids can play a little more. I know it takes a long
time to get set up in it. This morning I got up early and did the dog chores
for them. That gives the kids some extra free time and so they are taking
turns with the pc. I like to do that sometimes but I do not have time to do
it all the time. I love the game Age of Empires 1 but I only let myself play
once a week. It is too time consuming.
I think that it is great that many kids have lots of free time to spend with
their friends, projects, games, etc. I think it is important that every
family decide what is best for their family. Or do you disagree and think I
should still allow my kids to do what they wish whenever they wish?
Candy
Who wants to play Age of Empire but instead has to go cut wood because
husband had to work and we are out. :(
[email protected]
Hi, I must admit that around here the kids are not allowed to play video
games or watch tv as much or whenever they want. First off, we only have two
pcs (and one is older which I use for work and does not run games well), and
we have one playstation and one tv with vcr. If I let the kids use the pc or
tv as much as they wanted then there would be an endless fight over who's
turn it was and fights get really old, really fast. Recently my kids decided
to raise dogs and have bought breeding stock and have puppies that need
constant care. We also believe that dogs need exercise (no matter how many
you nave), so that is another chore that needs to be done daily. Although the
kids were gung-ho to do these chores in the beginning now it is not as much
fun. Some days it is cold, or they just got a new game that they are dying to
play. The kids tried the "lets play playstation or pc first before doing
morning chores" routine but I could not allow this, animals need care first.
And the dog thing was their idea not mine. I do help out but it is their
business. Yesterday the kids went (with own money) and bought two more pups,
more work and responsibility. The kids have more pens to build and just
finished repairing an old doghouse. It has turned into a lot of work. And now
the kids are reading dog books aloud, learning how to manage their new
business and housebreak pups. But still the video games and tv call to them
to come and play, they are so much fun. I make sure the kids at least get
half an hour to play these video type games and some days they may each play
an hour and they watch tv in the evenings with Dad, (while taking turns
taking pups out). If I did let them out of their chores to do as they wanted
then that means I would have to do their chores and mine and what would they
learn from that? That Mom or someone will be there to cover for them?
Many unschoolers like to read about the Colfax's or Holt's ideals but neither
had these types of distractions to deal with.
If I was totally involved in writing my best piece I would hate to have to
stop but in reality this happens all the time. If I am totally involved in
something and the kids, animals, chores, meals or whatever needs my attention
I stop and take care of it. Isn't that something that too needs to be learned?
I have a daughter that can read for hours. I have no problem with that at all
as long as she is handling her share of the chores. You can imagine how much
her siblings complain if they have to take her turn at doing a chores because
she is reading. It just doesn't work. I do require that the kids help out
with housework, garden, and yard work. I try to make it a minimum, I know
kids need free time and I am not picky or a perfectionist, making them work
all the time. But it is next to impossible for me do it all with four kids
and a husband that works 60 hrs a week. I need their help and if the kids and
I get after the work it does not take long to finish.
We have a new game for the pc, Age of Empires 2, really a cool game. So I try
to work it out so the kids can play a little more. I know it takes a long
time to get set up in it. This morning I got up early and did the dog chores
for them. That gives the kids some extra free time and so they are taking
turns with the pc. I like to do that sometimes but I do not have time to do
it all the time. I love the game Age of Empires 1 but I only let myself play
once a week. It is too time consuming.
I think that it is great that many kids have lots of free time to spend with
their friends, projects, games, tv, etc. I think it what is important is that
every family decides what is best for their family and then go for it. Or do
you disagree and think I should still allow my kids to do what they wish
whenever they wish?
Candy
Who wants to play Age of Empire but instead has to go cut wood because
husband had to work and we are out. :(
games or watch tv as much or whenever they want. First off, we only have two
pcs (and one is older which I use for work and does not run games well), and
we have one playstation and one tv with vcr. If I let the kids use the pc or
tv as much as they wanted then there would be an endless fight over who's
turn it was and fights get really old, really fast. Recently my kids decided
to raise dogs and have bought breeding stock and have puppies that need
constant care. We also believe that dogs need exercise (no matter how many
you nave), so that is another chore that needs to be done daily. Although the
kids were gung-ho to do these chores in the beginning now it is not as much
fun. Some days it is cold, or they just got a new game that they are dying to
play. The kids tried the "lets play playstation or pc first before doing
morning chores" routine but I could not allow this, animals need care first.
And the dog thing was their idea not mine. I do help out but it is their
business. Yesterday the kids went (with own money) and bought two more pups,
more work and responsibility. The kids have more pens to build and just
finished repairing an old doghouse. It has turned into a lot of work. And now
the kids are reading dog books aloud, learning how to manage their new
business and housebreak pups. But still the video games and tv call to them
to come and play, they are so much fun. I make sure the kids at least get
half an hour to play these video type games and some days they may each play
an hour and they watch tv in the evenings with Dad, (while taking turns
taking pups out). If I did let them out of their chores to do as they wanted
then that means I would have to do their chores and mine and what would they
learn from that? That Mom or someone will be there to cover for them?
Many unschoolers like to read about the Colfax's or Holt's ideals but neither
had these types of distractions to deal with.
If I was totally involved in writing my best piece I would hate to have to
stop but in reality this happens all the time. If I am totally involved in
something and the kids, animals, chores, meals or whatever needs my attention
I stop and take care of it. Isn't that something that too needs to be learned?
I have a daughter that can read for hours. I have no problem with that at all
as long as she is handling her share of the chores. You can imagine how much
her siblings complain if they have to take her turn at doing a chores because
she is reading. It just doesn't work. I do require that the kids help out
with housework, garden, and yard work. I try to make it a minimum, I know
kids need free time and I am not picky or a perfectionist, making them work
all the time. But it is next to impossible for me do it all with four kids
and a husband that works 60 hrs a week. I need their help and if the kids and
I get after the work it does not take long to finish.
We have a new game for the pc, Age of Empires 2, really a cool game. So I try
to work it out so the kids can play a little more. I know it takes a long
time to get set up in it. This morning I got up early and did the dog chores
for them. That gives the kids some extra free time and so they are taking
turns with the pc. I like to do that sometimes but I do not have time to do
it all the time. I love the game Age of Empires 1 but I only let myself play
once a week. It is too time consuming.
I think that it is great that many kids have lots of free time to spend with
their friends, projects, games, tv, etc. I think it what is important is that
every family decides what is best for their family and then go for it. Or do
you disagree and think I should still allow my kids to do what they wish
whenever they wish?
Candy
Who wants to play Age of Empire but instead has to go cut wood because
husband had to work and we are out. :(
Elizabeth Hill
>My guess is that you could pick up some old video games on eBay for veryOh, yeah. I should have thought of that myself. I have used Ebay for
>little money. I've found eBay to be a great source for stuff that's
>a)expensive when new, b) easily outgrown, and c) pretty durable -- it's
>where I got all our Duplos and plastic/rubber animals.
edutainment software.
Betsy
[email protected]
In a message dated 1/27/01 8:33:23 AM Pacific Standard Time,
ecsamhill@... writes:
<< Can
I get an old model and buy mostly used games? >>
We've always rented the games from the video store. They're very expensive to
buy. That way also there's a built in time limit and if the game is really
great you can take it back out. When my son was younger he had a Sega that he
bought with his own money. Now he has a PlayStation that he and a friend
bought from another friend that came with a lot of sports games. Mostly these
days he plays games on the computer but now that he has a job he has less
time to play. He got a football game for Christmas from us and his older
sister.
My kids say that first of all if your son's cousins have a Nintendo 64, he
will probably not be satisfied with a SuperNintendo. If they have a
SuperNintendo then that would probably suffice. Nintendo 64 is somewhat older
than the newest models from other companies but still popular. One issue with
old models is finding games. You could find second hand games but not rentals
for a Super Nintendo. My kids have always had to buy these things for
themselves. My now 15yo son saved Christmas and Birthday money for a year to
buy his Sega when he was 7 or 8 yo. He says you should not torture your son
in this way and should buy the Nintendo for him (LOL) ;.)
-Amalia, mother to Jenny 20, Michael, 15 and
Ariana 11
ecsamhill@... writes:
<< Can
I get an old model and buy mostly used games? >>
We've always rented the games from the video store. They're very expensive to
buy. That way also there's a built in time limit and if the game is really
great you can take it back out. When my son was younger he had a Sega that he
bought with his own money. Now he has a PlayStation that he and a friend
bought from another friend that came with a lot of sports games. Mostly these
days he plays games on the computer but now that he has a job he has less
time to play. He got a football game for Christmas from us and his older
sister.
My kids say that first of all if your son's cousins have a Nintendo 64, he
will probably not be satisfied with a SuperNintendo. If they have a
SuperNintendo then that would probably suffice. Nintendo 64 is somewhat older
than the newest models from other companies but still popular. One issue with
old models is finding games. You could find second hand games but not rentals
for a Super Nintendo. My kids have always had to buy these things for
themselves. My now 15yo son saved Christmas and Birthday money for a year to
buy his Sega when he was 7 or 8 yo. He says you should not torture your son
in this way and should buy the Nintendo for him (LOL) ;.)
-Amalia, mother to Jenny 20, Michael, 15 and
Ariana 11
Ashley
My guess is that you could pick up some old video games on eBay for very
little money. I've found eBay to be a great source for stuff that's
a)expensive when new, b) easily outgrown, and c) pretty durable -- it's
where I got all our Duplos and plastic/rubber animals.
(BTW I've really been enjoying the discussion about video games. I have very
mixed feelings about video games, computers for small kids, and TV, and have
a whole bunch of questions I'll try to put together into a post to you guys
at some point. In the meantime, I'm learning a lot reading your various
ideas.)
Best to all, Ashley, mom to Willis, 5, and Frances 2, both playing with new
sticker books while I snag an extra cup of coffee and a little e-mail.
little money. I've found eBay to be a great source for stuff that's
a)expensive when new, b) easily outgrown, and c) pretty durable -- it's
where I got all our Duplos and plastic/rubber animals.
(BTW I've really been enjoying the discussion about video games. I have very
mixed feelings about video games, computers for small kids, and TV, and have
a whole bunch of questions I'll try to put together into a post to you guys
at some point. In the meantime, I'm learning a lot reading your various
ideas.)
Best to all, Ashley, mom to Willis, 5, and Frances 2, both playing with new
sticker books while I snag an extra cup of coffee and a little e-mail.
> -----Original Message-----
>
> In a message dated 1/27/01 8:33:23 AM Pacific Standard Time,
> ecsamhill@... writes:
>
> << Can
> I get an old model and buy mostly used games? >>
>
>
Kerry Kibort
You could also check the bulletin board at the grocery
store or put an ad up yourself. Many people have the
older (<G> 1 year!) systems in the closet because
they're kid gets a new system every holiday. My
brothers kids get a new one every year and throw us
the old ones. so wasteful!
store or put an ad up yourself. Many people have the
older (<G> 1 year!) systems in the closet because
they're kid gets a new system every holiday. My
brothers kids get a new one every year and throw us
the old ones. so wasteful!
Vicki A. Dennis
We have had success getting used games at large flea markets---especially for the older systems (anything less than Playstation 2 or Dreamcast!).Last Christmas we got a reconditioned SuperNinendo (including a warranty!) for a sibling group for about $40 at Funcoland. We were able to choose individual games for each child for $4-$10 each.. At the same time my boys were going through a nostalgia stage for the original Nintendo games. While we did end up paying as much as $20 for some specific games, my older son brought in a sack of games he picked up for 9 cents each. I live in technopolis Austin so do not know if there are as many used sites other places but worth checking the yellow pages. Newspaper classifieds will also usually render up good deals on a system including several games as some kids "upgrade". Some stores will deal in systems and games much like half-price books used to do non-cash exchanges. They don't pay much for games but don't sell them for much either............especially the older systems.My kids like to rent newly released games especially for newer systems to be sure they like them before investing $50 or more but the older games can usually be found for not much more than 2 times renting the same game.Over the years we have traded in systems and games but right now we have a terrible overabundance since the resale value of last years model seems to decrease faster than new cars----and they also keep returning to favorites on the earlier systems.I can't fuss too much-------I still have a turntable and a shelf full of vinyl LPs!If you have kids under 10-12 and no systems at all, I would definitely advise getting a used system.Vicki
Cindy L.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ashley" <aharvie@...>
>
> (BTW I've really been enjoying the discussion about video games. I have
very
> mixed feelings about video games, computers for small kids, and TV, and
have
> a whole bunch of questions I'll try to put together into a post to you
guys
> at some point. In the meantime, I'm learning a lot reading your various
> ideas.)
>
Ashley,
I, too have many reservations about t.v, video games, and computers for
young children. My son is 4 y.o., and we rarely watch t.v ourselves, so
it's not a big issue so far. He does watch t.v. at my parents house,
usually PBS or Jeopardy, and it's amazing how much he memorizes from the
little time he watches. Once in awhile we use the computer together, but we
don't have any game software.
I am concerned from a neurological perspective, he does have some neuro
problems as it is and I didn't want to add to that situation. He does have
a great attention span, he plays very well by himself, and is highly
creative in his play. I have no idea if things would have been different
with more electronic media exposure or not. Sometimes I think we're the
only homeschoolers around who limit this, nice to know we're not alone.
Cindy L.
Gerry Westenberg
> Or do you disagree and think IWell, we have meetings or talks to discuss these sort of things. We have 7
> should still allow my kids to do what they wish whenever they wish?
>
> Candy
boys and so we need to agree on computer time and and just doing the
housework ( laundry and so on) so everyone has free time and time on
computers, etc. The kids have more free time than me - thats okay, they ARE
kids. But we try to come to a *common preference*/deal on basic household
maintenance and use of computers.
Leonie
[email protected]
In a message dated 1/27/01 7:41:32 PM Pacific Standard Time,
clappin@... writes:
<< Sometimes I think we're the
only homeschoolers around who limit this, nice to know we're not alone.
all share space and I just don't want to hear it going all day. I like peace,
or a little background music, or even something interesting on the
television. I just don't want to hear constant chatter from the box all day.
Same goes for the video games and the cheers and jeers that always accompany
them.
candice
clappin@... writes:
<< Sometimes I think we're the
only homeschoolers around who limit this, nice to know we're not alone.
>>I limit tv for a different reason than most have mentioned here. Basically we
all share space and I just don't want to hear it going all day. I like peace,
or a little background music, or even something interesting on the
television. I just don't want to hear constant chatter from the box all day.
Same goes for the video games and the cheers and jeers that always accompany
them.
candice
[email protected]
I'm behind on e-mail - we're in the middle of a move.
Check out vimm.net. They have free emulators and nintendo and super
nintendo games you can play on your computer. They work on Windows,
DOS, and Mac systems.
Melanie en route to Indiana
Check out vimm.net. They have free emulators and nintendo and super
nintendo games you can play on your computer. They work on Windows,
DOS, and Mac systems.
Melanie en route to Indiana
Bobbie
--- SandraDodd@... wrote:
been dayz that he really has played alll day, such as
when my dad died -who he was really close to- and it
was all he really wanted to do and my niece (15) and
him played all day long for a few dayz while everyone
else was running around "taking care of things". he
loved it. I'm all for it, but there are also times
that he keeps playing not cuz he is still all that
into it, but just cuz he is addicted. Haven't you sat
at the computer for just an hour or so too long
sometimes not cuz you don't want to get on with doing
other things that you like but just becuz there is
some sort of invisible tractor beam that makes you
stay and stay? <g>
pretending....you're SHOOTING someone. Maybe older
kids or grown ups even are able to separate "real"
guns and "pretend" ones, but in my mind little kids
can't make that definition yet (as in my 5 year old
son)...He knows that it would be wrong to shoot
someone, but if there were a real gun in front of him
and he was already accustomed to "pretend guns" in
games...(that are actually very graphic with blood and
everything flying everywhere and it's supposed to be
entertaining)...how would he justify that it's ok to
pretend you're shooting someone to bits and not to
touch a gun in real life? I'm just not comfortable
with the idea of teaching him that these weapons that
are used primarily for taking life are ok to "pretend"
about.
ahem. sorry, I tend to get a little carried away on
this subject which I have oft discussed with my
sister, whose son has no restrictions about games and
owns a bb gun etc. at age 13.
but at
would be if no one questioned anything. :)
what a horrible story! I'll probably have a nightmare
about it! <g> that's awful. And I never do that to
Satori, as I consider myself more a kid than a grown
up in all the good wayz (I have fought "crossing over"
quite determinedly), and I do know the value of never
turning his video game off when he's just about to win
a world, etc. He works so hard at it and is able to
concentrate on it without any effort. He actually
likes it much better when i play WITH him. I get
constant updates on how he's doing and where secret
worlds are. Ds and his "second daddy" (instead of
"step daddy")just came running in to let me know that
one of them had found a secret barrel in Donkey Kong
Country that took them past the WHOLE cart world! cool
beans. No, I don't think his brains will rot, but I do
want him to not be limited to just ONE thing he
enjoys, as there are so many things he wants to do.
a little of that, not knowing which he wants to do
first, he'll fight with his sister to be able to do
their JumpStart Math Game and then starts Donkey Kong
and forgets he was waiting for that, and then gets on
the computer (after I remind he asked for it) and
forgets he made it very clear to everyone that HE had
dibs on the tv for wishbone and dragontales. :) Then
draws in his "how to draw superheroes" book while he
watches them and waits for me to "get things ready"
for "making stuff" or baking cookies, etc.
my boyfriend always jokes that I have NO concept of
time. The only clocks I ever see are here on the puter
and on my phone. We do things til we're done (and
sometimes beyond, it's in our natures). Including
video games, but sometimes those things get
frustrating if you don't take a break and do something
else. Like getting a fresh perspective. Like curing
writer's block when you're stuck in the middle of a
piece you've been working on for dayz and dayz on end.
But whatever we switch to, we tend to get caught up in
for longer then we want to be and so I try to keep
things moving so that we don't end up getting bored
with things we like.
Many times I'll remind Satori that he wanted to do
something else to, or suggest a new activity for
awhile, and then find myself saying "wait! don't just
turn it off, you'll lose all those levels you won!"
<g> and for two days one time we kept the Nintendo on
and just turned the monitor off, cuz we just needed to
beat ONE more castle so we could save the game and not
have to start all over. We all took turns having a go
at it. FINALLY won it. Jeez. <g>
and the original NES (Dr. Mario is ONE of my
favorites, but I really like Marble Madness, too)
Where in Alb. would you say is the cheapest place to
buy games for them?
and to buy gameboys?
-Bobbie
__________________________________________________
Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35
a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/
> Why not? Now many days do you think it would last?Oh, I know it wouldn't last forever, and there have
> (I have experience.)
>
been dayz that he really has played alll day, such as
when my dad died -who he was really close to- and it
was all he really wanted to do and my niece (15) and
him played all day long for a few dayz while everyone
else was running around "taking care of things". he
loved it. I'm all for it, but there are also times
that he keeps playing not cuz he is still all that
into it, but just cuz he is addicted. Haven't you sat
at the computer for just an hour or so too long
sometimes not cuz you don't want to get on with doing
other things that you like but just becuz there is
some sort of invisible tractor beam that makes you
stay and stay? <g>
> The shooting games have skill-solving, logic,um......yeah....but when playing them you also are
> concentration and persistance
> too!
>
pretending....you're SHOOTING someone. Maybe older
kids or grown ups even are able to separate "real"
guns and "pretend" ones, but in my mind little kids
can't make that definition yet (as in my 5 year old
son)...He knows that it would be wrong to shoot
someone, but if there were a real gun in front of him
and he was already accustomed to "pretend guns" in
games...(that are actually very graphic with blood and
everything flying everywhere and it's supposed to be
entertaining)...how would he justify that it's ok to
pretend you're shooting someone to bits and not to
touch a gun in real life? I'm just not comfortable
with the idea of teaching him that these weapons that
are used primarily for taking life are ok to "pretend"
about.
ahem. sorry, I tend to get a little carried away on
this subject which I have oft discussed with my
sister, whose son has no restrictions about games and
owns a bb gun etc. at age 13.
but at
> least one will question thewell, good. like someone said before, how boring it
> proviso <g>.
>
would be if no one questioned anything. :)
> If a child is fascinated by and engrossed inAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
> something, what are legitimate
> reasons to make him stop? I've heard a hundred
> spurious ones over the years.
> My mom said several times to me, in the tone of
> voice you'd think would be
> saved for people doing something really disgusting,
> "Get your nose out of
> that book and go outside and play." Because she
> couldn't see the value in
> what I was doing, and it didn't involve her, she
> wanted me to stop.
> How would any of you like it if you were right in
> the middle of writing one
> of the best things you ever wrote (no matter how
> long you had been at the
> computer) and someone twice your size (or just your
> mother) blasted in
> without even waiting politely to see if you were at
> a stopping place and
> commanded you to turn it off or said "That's enough"
> or "your brain will rot"
what a horrible story! I'll probably have a nightmare
about it! <g> that's awful. And I never do that to
Satori, as I consider myself more a kid than a grown
up in all the good wayz (I have fought "crossing over"
quite determinedly), and I do know the value of never
turning his video game off when he's just about to win
a world, etc. He works so hard at it and is able to
concentrate on it without any effort. He actually
likes it much better when i play WITH him. I get
constant updates on how he's doing and where secret
worlds are. Ds and his "second daddy" (instead of
"step daddy")just came running in to let me know that
one of them had found a secret barrel in Donkey Kong
Country that took them past the WHOLE cart world! cool
beans. No, I don't think his brains will rot, but I do
want him to not be limited to just ONE thing he
enjoys, as there are so many things he wants to do.
> And if nothing else in the house is more involvingOn the contrary he runs around trying a little of this
> or alluring than that
> video game, maybe your child knows what he's doing,
> sticking with the best
> thing available to him, or maybe you need to look at
> his options and improve
> the competition.
>
a little of that, not knowing which he wants to do
first, he'll fight with his sister to be able to do
their JumpStart Math Game and then starts Donkey Kong
and forgets he was waiting for that, and then gets on
the computer (after I remind he asked for it) and
forgets he made it very clear to everyone that HE had
dibs on the tv for wishbone and dragontales. :) Then
draws in his "how to draw superheroes" book while he
watches them and waits for me to "get things ready"
for "making stuff" or baking cookies, etc.
> If you let him quit when he's done, he WILL quit,HA!
> and he will have been
> empowered to finish things when he's finished
> instead of living by the
> clock
my boyfriend always jokes that I have NO concept of
time. The only clocks I ever see are here on the puter
and on my phone. We do things til we're done (and
sometimes beyond, it's in our natures). Including
video games, but sometimes those things get
frustrating if you don't take a break and do something
else. Like getting a fresh perspective. Like curing
writer's block when you're stuck in the middle of a
piece you've been working on for dayz and dayz on end.
But whatever we switch to, we tend to get caught up in
for longer then we want to be and so I try to keep
things moving so that we don't end up getting bored
with things we like.
Many times I'll remind Satori that he wanted to do
something else to, or suggest a new activity for
awhile, and then find myself saying "wait! don't just
turn it off, you'll lose all those levels you won!"
<g> and for two days one time we kept the Nintendo on
and just turned the monitor off, cuz we just needed to
beat ONE more castle so we could save the game and not
have to start all over. We all took turns having a go
at it. FINALLY won it. Jeez. <g>
> Sandrawe have a Super NES
> who lives in a house with
> Super Nintendo
> NES (original/plain Nintendo which is where Dr.
> Mario, my favorite game,
> lives)
> game boys (3, not all surfaced these days)
and the original NES (Dr. Mario is ONE of my
favorites, but I really like Marble Madness, too)
Where in Alb. would you say is the cheapest place to
buy games for them?
and to buy gameboys?
-Bobbie
__________________________________________________
Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35
a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/
Bobbie
I agree with you in alot of wayz here Candy. When I
was younger I was never forced to do any chores. We
(parents and me and sis) went thru several attempts at
some sort of a program but what can i say, my parents
were big softies and plus I always knew (not
consciously at first) that if I left it undone long
enough that mom would do it cuz to have it undone
drove her crazy (that whole compulsive
cleaning/straightening thing). But this carries into
our dealings now even. It also unintentionally
instilled in me that she didn't trust me to get it
done on my own. I think you are conveying to your kids
that you have faith in their abilities and they know
that if they don't do it then you aren't going to do
run thier dog business for them. good form.
And I also agree that alot of things written on hs/us
are mostly written from the assumption that every
family is one that has ideal circumstances. I don't
know ANY of those personally.<g>
-Bobbie
--- discovery6@... wrote:
If I did let them out of their
Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35
a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/
was younger I was never forced to do any chores. We
(parents and me and sis) went thru several attempts at
some sort of a program but what can i say, my parents
were big softies and plus I always knew (not
consciously at first) that if I left it undone long
enough that mom would do it cuz to have it undone
drove her crazy (that whole compulsive
cleaning/straightening thing). But this carries into
our dealings now even. It also unintentionally
instilled in me that she didn't trust me to get it
done on my own. I think you are conveying to your kids
that you have faith in their abilities and they know
that if they don't do it then you aren't going to do
run thier dog business for them. good form.
And I also agree that alot of things written on hs/us
are mostly written from the assumption that every
family is one that has ideal circumstances. I don't
know ANY of those personally.<g>
-Bobbie
--- discovery6@... wrote:
If I did let them out of their
> chores to do as they wanted__________________________________________________
> then that means I would have to do their chores and
> mine and what would they
> learn from that? That Mom or someone will be there
> to cover for them?
>
> Many unschoolers like to read about the Colfax's or
> Holt's ideals but neither
> had these types of distractions to deal with.
>
> If I was totally involved in writing my best piece I
> would hate to have to
> stop but in reality this happens all the time. If I
> am totally involved in
> something and the kids, animals, chores, meals or
> whatever needs my attention
> I stop and take care of it. Isn't that something
> that too needs to be learned?
>
> I have a daughter that can read for hours. I have no
> problem with that at all
> as long as she is handling her share of the chores.
> You can imagine how much
> her siblings complain if they have to take her turn
> at doing a chores because
> she is reading. It just doesn't work. I do require
> that the kids help out
> with housework, garden, and yard work. I try to make
> it a minimum, I know
> kids need free time and I am not picky or a
> perfectionist, making them work
> all the time. But it is next to impossible for me do
> it all with four kids
> and a husband that works 60 hrs a week. I need their
> help and if the kids and
> I get after the work it does not take long to
> finish.
>
> Candy
> Who wants to play Age of Empire but instead has to
> go cut wood because
> husband had to work and we are out. :(
>
Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35
a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/
Bobbie
oh my goodness gracious! 7 boyz? do they all get
along? I don't know I'm so curious about this, but I'm
just trying to picture a house of 7 unschooling
brothers! bravo to you! How close are they in age?
ok, I'm done now.
-Bobbie
--- Gerry Westenberg <westen@...> wrote:
We have 7
Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35
a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/
along? I don't know I'm so curious about this, but I'm
just trying to picture a house of 7 unschooling
brothers! bravo to you! How close are they in age?
ok, I'm done now.
-Bobbie
--- Gerry Westenberg <westen@...> wrote:
We have 7
> boys and so we need to agree on computer time and__________________________________________________
> and just doing the
> housework ( laundry and so on) so everyone has free
> time and time on
> computers, etc. The kids have more free time than me
> - thats okay, they ARE
> kids. But we try to come to a *common
> preference*/deal on basic household
> maintenance and use of computers.
>
> Leonie
>
>
Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35
a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/
[email protected]
In a message dated 2/4/01 1:13:52 PM Pacific Standard Time,
insomniaaks@... writes:
<< Maybe older
kids or grown ups even are able to separate "real"
guns and "pretend" ones, but in my mind little kids
can't make that definition yet (as in my 5 year old
son). >>
When my son was little I let him play with toy guns. One day when he was 4 or
5, we were driving along when of a sudden he pointed out the window and said
with utter astonishment, "Look Mom, there's a gun store over there. Why would
anyone want a real gun???" That cleared up any concerns I had:>)
insomniaaks@... writes:
<< Maybe older
kids or grown ups even are able to separate "real"
guns and "pretend" ones, but in my mind little kids
can't make that definition yet (as in my 5 year old
son). >>
When my son was little I let him play with toy guns. One day when he was 4 or
5, we were driving along when of a sudden he pointed out the window and said
with utter astonishment, "Look Mom, there's a gun store over there. Why would
anyone want a real gun???" That cleared up any concerns I had:>)
Valerie Stewart
oh my goodness gracious! 7 boyz? do they all get
along? I don't know I'm so curious about this, but I'm
just trying to picture a house of 7 unschooling
brothers! bravo to you! How close are they in age?
ok, I'm done now.
-Bobbie
My older sister (who looks younger...it's just sickening...) is the mother
of 7 boys, also. And one lonely little girl. And another boy on the way.
It's never dull at their house. They've homeschooled in the past, but never
unschooled. My nephews are great: artistic, athletic...my daughters love
playing with them. I wish they unschooled, too. They're going the private
school route. :(
Valerie in Tacoma
along? I don't know I'm so curious about this, but I'm
just trying to picture a house of 7 unschooling
brothers! bravo to you! How close are they in age?
ok, I'm done now.
-Bobbie
My older sister (who looks younger...it's just sickening...) is the mother
of 7 boys, also. And one lonely little girl. And another boy on the way.
It's never dull at their house. They've homeschooled in the past, but never
unschooled. My nephews are great: artistic, athletic...my daughters love
playing with them. I wish they unschooled, too. They're going the private
school route. :(
Valerie in Tacoma
dawn
> oh my goodness gracious! 7 boyz? do they all geta houseful of boyz sounds just fabulous to me. I wish we had a few more,
> along? I don't know I'm so curious about this, but I'm
> just trying to picture a house of 7 unschooling
> brothers! bravo to you! How close are they in age?
>
>
tbh. Too bad I started having kids so late. My heart beats fast at the
idea of 7 boyz in my house! Wow.
dawn h-s, with only 3 fabulous boyz
[email protected]
In a message dated 2/4/01 2:13:53 PM, insomniaaks@... writes:
<< Where in Alb. would you say is the cheapest place to
buy games for them?
and to buy gameboys? >>
Marty says Game Force or Software Etc. in Winrock (both have used stuff) and
there's a used store near WalMart on Eubank: Game Stop
or Replay Games on Eubank and Candelaria (SW side)
but if you can wait a few days, ordering from http://www.gamestop.com/jump/
might give you more choices. (buying locally's good too...)
<< Where in Alb. would you say is the cheapest place to
buy games for them?
and to buy gameboys? >>
Marty says Game Force or Software Etc. in Winrock (both have used stuff) and
there's a used store near WalMart on Eubank: Game Stop
or Replay Games on Eubank and Candelaria (SW side)
but if you can wait a few days, ordering from http://www.gamestop.com/jump/
might give you more choices. (buying locally's good too...)
Tami Labig-Duquette
I dont like mine playing with pretend guns. How do you play with a gun
anyway?
Tami
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com
anyway?
Tami
>From: adarl52357@..._________________________________________________________________
>Reply-To: [email protected]
>To: [email protected]
>Subject: Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] video games / computer games
>Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001 18:32:36 EST
>
>In a message dated 2/4/01 1:13:52 PM Pacific Standard Time,
>insomniaaks@... writes:
>
><< Maybe older
> kids or grown ups even are able to separate "real"
> guns and "pretend" ones, but in my mind little kids
> can't make that definition yet (as in my 5 year old
> son). >>
>
>When my son was little I let him play with toy guns. One day when he was 4
>or
>5, we were driving along when of a sudden he pointed out the window and
>said
>with utter astonishment, "Look Mom, there's a gun store over there. Why
>would
>anyone want a real gun???" That cleared up any concerns I had:>)
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com
dawn
On Sun, 4 Feb 2001, Tami Labig-Duquette wrote:
about what they like?
dawn h-s
> I dont like mine playing with pretend guns. How do you play with a guntarget shooting? is it really about what he like or don't like? isn't it
> anyway?
>
>
about what they like?
dawn h-s
dawn
that should be "about what *we*"
dawn h-s
**********
Some who support more coercive strategies assume that children will run
wild if they are not controlled. However, the children for whom this is
true typically turn out to be those accustomed to being controlled--those
who are not trusted, given explanations, encouraged to think for
themselves, helped to develop and internalize good values, and so
on. Control breeds the need for more control, which is then used to
justify the use of control.
---Alfie Kohn, Punished by Rewards, p. 33.
**********
dawn h-s
**********
Some who support more coercive strategies assume that children will run
wild if they are not controlled. However, the children for whom this is
true typically turn out to be those accustomed to being controlled--those
who are not trusted, given explanations, encouraged to think for
themselves, helped to develop and internalize good values, and so
on. Control breeds the need for more control, which is then used to
justify the use of control.
---Alfie Kohn, Punished by Rewards, p. 33.
**********
On Sun, 4 Feb 2001, dawn wrote:
> On Sun, 4 Feb 2001, Tami Labig-Duquette wrote:
>
> > I dont like mine playing with pretend guns. How do you play with a gun
> > anyway?
> >
> >
> target shooting? is it really about what he like or don't like? isn't it
> about what they like?
> dawn h-s
>
>
>
> Message boards, timely articles, a free newsletter and more!
> Check it all out at: http://www.unschooling.com
>
> Addresses:
> Post message: [email protected]
> Unsubscribe: [email protected]
> List owner: [email protected]
> List settings page: http://www.egroups.com/group/Unschooling-dotcom
>
>
>
Tami Labig-Duquette
My children have few restrictions, but that is one they do have. They havent
really ever expressed any interest in guns though. Thank goodness!
Tami
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com
really ever expressed any interest in guns though. Thank goodness!
Tami
>From: dawn <dawn@...>_________________________________________________________________
>Reply-To: [email protected]
>To: [email protected]
>Subject: Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] video games / computer games
>Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001 17:49:38 -0800 (PST)
>
>On Sun, 4 Feb 2001, Tami Labig-Duquette wrote:
>
> > I dont like mine playing with pretend guns. How do you play with a gun
> > anyway?
> >
> >
>target shooting? is it really about what he like or don't like? isn't it
>about what they like?
>dawn h-s
>
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com
[email protected]
I am confident that children know the difference between reality and
fantasy; and anything that happens in adult reality they process through
their play. The way you play guns is by pretending to shoot. Sometimes you
might pretend to kill. For my son playing with toy guns was something he
wanted to do. He never remotely thought it was real. ("Look Mom, there's a
gun store over there. Why would anyone want a real gun???" ) When he got
older he sometimes played violent video games and watched violent movies with
his older sister, stuff I wouldn't watch. Whatever it was all about he seems
to have gotten it out of his system. Now, at age 15 he watches and plays
games about sports.
fantasy; and anything that happens in adult reality they process through
their play. The way you play guns is by pretending to shoot. Sometimes you
might pretend to kill. For my son playing with toy guns was something he
wanted to do. He never remotely thought it was real. ("Look Mom, there's a
gun store over there. Why would anyone want a real gun???" ) When he got
older he sometimes played violent video games and watched violent movies with
his older sister, stuff I wouldn't watch. Whatever it was all about he seems
to have gotten it out of his system. Now, at age 15 he watches and plays
games about sports.
Bobbie
thanks. I've been to game stop before by wal mart
but didn't know of the other ones in winrock.
I'll check them out.
Think I'll make a day of pawn shop visiting too. :)
-Bobbie
--- SandraDodd@... wrote:
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Auctions - Buy the things you want at great prices.
http://auctions.yahoo.com/
but didn't know of the other ones in winrock.
I'll check them out.
Think I'll make a day of pawn shop visiting too. :)
-Bobbie
--- SandraDodd@... wrote:
>__________________________________________________
> In a message dated 2/4/01 2:13:53 PM,
> insomniaaks@... writes:
>
> << Where in Alb. would you say is the cheapest place
> to
> buy games for them?
> and to buy gameboys? >>
>
> Marty says Game Force or Software Etc. in Winrock
> (both have used stuff) and
> there's a used store near WalMart on Eubank: Game
> Stop
>
> or Replay Games on Eubank and Candelaria (SW side)
>
> but if you can wait a few days, ordering from
> http://www.gamestop.com/jump/
> might give you more choices. (buying locally's good
> too...)
>
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Bobbie
my thoughts exactly. how can I explain to them that
it's ok to PRETEND they are doing something that they
would never ever do in real life cuz it's "bad"?
I understand it's easier for some other families and
moms and what not and that's great if they can find a
way to explain it to the kids, but mine say "why can
we PRETEND we're being bad people if we don't want to
be bad people for real?" I don't let them pretend they
are stealing or smoking or any of the other things I
would prefer they don't grow up to do in real life, so
I just don't let them play with guns either.
just my own opinion though.
-Bobbie
--- Tami Labig-Duquette <labigduquette@...>
wrote:
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it's ok to PRETEND they are doing something that they
would never ever do in real life cuz it's "bad"?
I understand it's easier for some other families and
moms and what not and that's great if they can find a
way to explain it to the kids, but mine say "why can
we PRETEND we're being bad people if we don't want to
be bad people for real?" I don't let them pretend they
are stealing or smoking or any of the other things I
would prefer they don't grow up to do in real life, so
I just don't let them play with guns either.
just my own opinion though.
-Bobbie
--- Tami Labig-Duquette <labigduquette@...>
wrote:
> I dont like mine playing with pretend guns. How do_________________________________________________________________
> you play with a gun
> anyway?
> Tami
>
>
> >From: adarl52357@...
> >Reply-To: [email protected]
> >To: [email protected]
> >Subject: Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] video games /
> computer games
> >Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001 18:32:36 EST
> >
> >In a message dated 2/4/01 1:13:52 PM Pacific
> Standard Time,
> >insomniaaks@... writes:
> >
> ><< Maybe older
> > kids or grown ups even are able to separate
> "real"
> > guns and "pretend" ones, but in my mind little
> kids
> > can't make that definition yet (as in my 5 year
> old
> > son). >>
> >
> >When my son was little I let him play with toy
> guns. One day when he was 4
> >or
> >5, we were driving along when of a sudden he
> pointed out the window and
> >said
> >with utter astonishment, "Look Mom, there's a gun
> store over there. Why
> >would
> >anyone want a real gun???" That cleared up any
> concerns I had:>)
>
>
> Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at__________________________________________________
> http://explorer.msn.com
>
>
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Bobbie
I might not have a problem with any target shooting
games, but it's just that I've never seen a game where
they shoot targets that aren't live creatures. I let
my son have bows and arrows (little plastic ones) and
they usually come with a target and there are shows
that show archery as a sport where you shoot a TARGET,
but I've just never seen that done with toy guns.
unless the target is in the shape of another human.
Good point though, if it isn't something VIOLENT then
I'm fine with it, but thanks to media and other
children wanting to play like they are shooting EACH
OTHER, that's what my son thinks of when he sees a
gun, he thinks of bad guys shooting other people or of
hunters and poachers shooting animals. He's still
fascinated with the mechanics of things like guns, and
I try not to discourage that and be all fanatical, but
I still don't want him playing at something violent.
to each his own.
-Bobbie
--- dawn <dawn@...> wrote:
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games, but it's just that I've never seen a game where
they shoot targets that aren't live creatures. I let
my son have bows and arrows (little plastic ones) and
they usually come with a target and there are shows
that show archery as a sport where you shoot a TARGET,
but I've just never seen that done with toy guns.
unless the target is in the shape of another human.
Good point though, if it isn't something VIOLENT then
I'm fine with it, but thanks to media and other
children wanting to play like they are shooting EACH
OTHER, that's what my son thinks of when he sees a
gun, he thinks of bad guys shooting other people or of
hunters and poachers shooting animals. He's still
fascinated with the mechanics of things like guns, and
I try not to discourage that and be all fanatical, but
I still don't want him playing at something violent.
to each his own.
-Bobbie
--- dawn <dawn@...> wrote:
> On Sun, 4 Feb 2001, Tami Labig-Duquette wrote:__________________________________________________
>
> > I dont like mine playing with pretend guns. How do
> you play with a gun
> > anyway?
> >
> >
> target shooting? is it really about what he like or
> don't like? isn't it
> about what they like?
> dawn h-s
>
>
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[email protected]
In a message dated 2/6/01 11:57:49 AM, insomniaaks@... writes:
<< but didn't know of the other ones in winrock.
I'll check them out. >>
Up above the food court, where Fool's Paradise used to be (north of Johnny
Rockets)
<< but didn't know of the other ones in winrock.
I'll check them out. >>
Up above the food court, where Fool's Paradise used to be (north of Johnny
Rockets)
dawn
> way to explain it to the kids, but mine say "why canmine are just the opposite. When I used to say "no guns; no gun play' my
> we PRETEND we're being bad people if we don't want to
> be bad people for real?" I don't let them pretend they
>
>
son, at age 3, came up to me and spoke to me like I was addled and pointed
out that there was no trigger on his stick and that a stick couldn't hold
bullets, and that "it is just *pretend* mom....no one is really going to
get hurt...." We don't have toy guns more than a few centimeters long
(the ones with playmobil and max steele), but lots of gun play has taken
place in the form of sticks, legos, tortillas, whatever. Yet, when my
boyz were confronted with a real gun at someone's house, they were the
first to leave and go to their safe place while all the other kids
clustered around to look at it (it was a faux replica and the man who had
it told the kids that, but mine decided to not trust him and go someplace
safe just in case). their fascination with gun play has waxed and waned.
the 8 yo is nearly done with it and the 5 yo has hit the peak, I think.
dhs