The Story of Soccer:

Bobby watched Jordan play soccer for two whole years; excited for his turn. We didn't hesitate to sign him up for soccer, and then the drama began. Crying, weeping, wailing, gnashing of teeth, and many explicatives came out of Bobby's mouth each Saturday morning before the game. The score for the first two games? Bobby:2 Parents:0 He sat on the sideline and moped. He wouldn't even get out onto the field. When he did get onto the field; he'd find something to be angry at. We tried to reinforce-"Kids who play in their soccer game get to go the gas station for a special treat!" and then we bribed, "We'll take you to Costco early to get that monster truck!" and then we threatened, "We're going to put Julia on the team instead!" But to no avail. So we decided that he needed to follow through- and we went "braindead" which is a term used in Parenting with Love and Logic- you don't give them any elbow-room! For example: Me: "Bobby- it's time to get ready for your soccer game!" Bobs: "I don't waaaaant to play soccer!" Me: "I know." while putting his soccer socks, cleats, and shin-guards on! What happened? He did it. He didnt' WANT to play soccer; but he did. And guess what? He's really good at soccer! He made as many goals as he made his mind up to make. Silly kid. I'll keep you posted, because he'll have Spring soccer, too. We might have to call the "Waaambulance."