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Moms Talk: Who Wins When Family Interests Collide?

How should parents respond when their child don't want to follow in their footsteps?

 

Let's face it, St. Louis parents: You've heard people say your kids physically resemble you or your spouse. But how many of us can say our kids' hobbies and other interests always align with our own?

Few of us, probably. Consider this scenario: Johnny is going into the fifth grade. His mom plays piano, and his grandfather was an accomplished pianist. But Johnny doesn't want any part of it. He balks at a trial lesson because he'd rather go out and play ball all day.

So onto this week's question: Should parents who find themselves in situations like this one push on, or simply let go of the issue?

About this column: Each week in Moms Talk, our Moms Council of experts and smart moms take your questions, give advice and share solutions. Related Topics: Dr. Cynthia Haines, Jayne Langsam, Laura Falk, Martha Baur, Parenting, and family tradition

Laura Falk

9:18 am on Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Let it go. If a child is not remotely interested in an activity, he or she shouldn't be forced into it because a relative enjoyed it. It can be hard enough to get them to practice an activity that they like! Plus forcing an issue like this will only lead to resentment on the child's part.

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Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Haines

3:26 pm on Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Let it go - and try it again later. What our kids are not interested in today, they may be obsessed with tomorrow. But one of the best ways to turn a kid off a potential hobby (or career) is to make it mandatory. -Dr. Cynthia Haines www.drcindyhaines.com

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