Thursday, August 7, 2008

Wax On. Wax Off.

I just read a profile about a young woman who has made it her mission to teach teenage girls how to defend themselves. Her interest in the martial arts began when, at age 10, her father sat her down and told her that the only way he would allow her to date as a teenager is if she earned a black belt in a martial art. This may be the most brilliant parenting strategy I have ever heard. I'm seriously thinking about implementing it with my daughter. I did a little research tonight and asked her whether she would rather take dance lessons or karate. Without hesitation she replied, "Karate." Score!

Now, how can I avoid a double standard? What should I require my son to complete before he is permitted to date? Any thoughts? Suggestions? Advice?



8 comments:

  1. It's a great idea - if you have a deep enough wallet...
    For the son? How about 365 straight days of doing the dishes after dinner and saying to his mother at least once a day, "How may I help you?"
    Also, door-opening-for-ladies training...and only let him date black belts.

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  2. I am not surprised at all that Tatie wants to kick some a** in Karate. As for T-man... If you can get him to not fart during a meal I think that would be excellent training for getting along better with his potential dates... I wish my mother-in-law had endoctrinated my Beloved with that standard.

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  3. I think there are etiquette classes being offered in some communities. WOW, that would be terrific. Like suburban said, "door-opening" and proper place settings and which fork to use with what and how to dance a proper waltz. That's the ticket.
    - Suzanne, the Farmer's Wife

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  4. Yes I think you should make him take house cleaning and etiquette classes. :)
    The black belt is a genius idea!

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  5. Take a class in feminist issues.
    Either he'll get some additional perspective, or it'll put him off dating for another year :)
    win-win right?

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  6. Black belt...BRILLIANT! Not sure what you should suggest for Truman. But I like suburbancorrespondant's suggestions!

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  7. Perhaps Truman could take the dance lessons?

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  8. Hmmm. My first thought was he should take black belt too. But I think I like the helping Mom idea better too. Personally? I sent my almost eleven year old to wilderness camp for two weeks, I figure that'll give him a bit of a reality check. :) But, oh, how I'm missing him.

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