Dopey

It is very refreshing as a teacher to encounter parents who are realistic about their children.  Those who admit that their little girl isn't the angelic pixie she appears to be or their wee lad can do no wrong.

Over the years I have found it is generally the "older" parents who fit this category.  They seem to be less protective, uptight and defensive about discussing their child's social and academic behaviors.

And when this attitude is coupled with a no BS, down to earth sense of humor I could chat with that mom or dad for hours.

Back when I taught preschool I had such a parent.  Each morning she would drop her daughter Sophie off in class accompanied by Sophie's little brother, Thomas.  And each morning a little boy, who was receiving speech and language therapy, would greet them.  This boy would pronounce the letters /s/ and /t/ as /d/ so when he greeted them he would say, "Hi Dopey and Dumb-ass".

This wonderful mom turned to me and said, "Yep, those are my kids - Dopey and Dumb-ass.  I'm so proud!"