articles

CATHY'S CORNER: Middle School Diaries

September 18, 2014

"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players: they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages." William Shakespeare

 

It seems my middle schooler likes to act silly and chat a lot - in math class, in the halls, in the lunchroom…and has gotten into quite a bit of trouble. “Three times,” the Vice Principal explained, “we need to address this." My little troublemaker.

I think about what I was like in middle school and realize that I picked up the nickname “Chatty Cathy” for a reason, and had to be separated from my buddies for “excessive talking and giggling” (this is from my actual 6th grade report card). Hmm.

Trying to see through my son’s eyes instead of my own isn’t easy. But I know from experience that growing up is messy business, and it’s a lifelong journey to figure out the person you want to become, and the parts you play. Right now, I know he wants to be popular and thinks getting attention and into trouble will win him points with his buddies. It’s an act, an outward show that hopefully ends once he understands that kindness, compassion, and genuine friendship are more enduring values than popularity or the number of social media fans.

And thus: with the crime committed, the punishment is rendered - the iPhone is taken away, with heartfelt promises of improving behavior. For now, the show must go on…and the players take their place on stage. 

What do you think? Please share your thoughts and have a great week ahead. I have TONS of event this week so keep an eye out and please share with friends and family.

Cathy


Coming at you this week...Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Stepping Stones Museum for Children opens its doors to all for FREE!  It’s Nickelodeon’s 11th annual Worldwide Day of Play and Stepping Stones is an official registered Nickelodeon site, and to join the fun is simple! The event will feature outdoor field games, interactive sports and fitness demonstrations, awesome educational activities and amazing live performances – all for free and guaranteed to keep your family moving. Turn off your TV, video games, computers, mobile phones and tablets. Parents too!


Calendar: Macaroni Kid 1st Annual Do Something Great Day, Stamford Hospital Health & Wellness Expo & Run for Hunger, Phoebe's ColorFlash, Worldwide Day of Play 

Macaroni Menu: Graham Cracker "Ice Cream" Sandwich

Back to School: Tracking Snack Duty, Make Your Own Bookmarks

Mom Tech: Oyster App

Macaroni Cares: Elephant Appreciation Day

Subscriber Giveaways of the Week: Big Apple Circus Tickets and Discount, CHET College Savings Pack...Book giveaways, and much more!!


Weekly Goodies: Last minute gift ideas, giveaways and other good things for kids, babies, dads and busy moms

Pet of the Week: Callie

Coming soon: Kids Eat Free Guide, Moms Work at Home Guide, Birthday Party Guide, Make a Difference Guide, Learning Vacations, Mac Kid Fashion, Haydn's Reel Reviews & Games, and Preston's Gluten Free Food Reviews and much more!


Save the Date: Macaroni Kid Do Something Great Day September 20, Emmanuel Community Fair, Chelsea Piers Health Fest

About Macaroni Kid 
Proudly serving Greenwich, Stamford, Darien, Norwalk, New Canaan, Westport, Wilton, and Weston. Your source for the latest kid-friendly events, activities, reviews, recipes, giveaways and more! Connect with other parents and find tips and information on fundraising, childcare, wellness, nutrition, learning, schools, camps and birthday parties. I welcome your comments and ideas and hope you visit often. For updates, like me on 
Facebook or follow me on Twitter

Are you gluten free? I have a local gluten free moms group to share recipes, tips advocacy and ideas for moms in Fairfield County. Please email me at catherines@macaronikid.com or submit a comment below if you're interested in joining. 

Having a special event or fundraiser? Post it on my site. Simply submit your info here. Free!

Want to sell or share something with other local moms? Post it on my forum and call me to discuss other promotion ideas. Free! 

Are you a local business that caters to families? Please email me about my local business directory or advertising! Easy and effective!

Macaroni Kid Wants You! I am always looking for a few local ambassadors and writers to help me write reviews, attend events and help others in the community. Email me at catherines@macaronikid.com for details. Each week is something different and fun.