The early years
After spending some time with my nephew, Zack, who happened to turn one year old last week, and watching the vivacity at which he soaks up the knowledge of the world, I have decided a few things. If I ever have children (oh heaven help the world), I will do the following:
I must create an educational, enriching environment
My nephew is constantly interacting with things, people, and places. His first experiences are incredibly important and shape his perception of them throughout his entire life. That’s why I probably won’t just turn on the television to a random station while I play with with my kid or let him/her crawl around with wild abandon. Classical music or an audio book of A Brief History of Time will be playing in the background. Also, I’ll read to him from my biochemistry book every day. He’ll grow up to be a genius! Genius, I say. I don’t want to buy a bunch of kiddie toys that flash, glow, and speak nonsense in 4 different accents, when something constructive will do just as well.
No swearing and no bad words
My wife and I will converse in as many different languages as we know
Children soak up the nuances of language incredibly fast and they learn quickly if languages are spoken often.
My son/daughter is getting my guitar… whether or not he wants to play it is his choice
I’m a bit dogged after today’s work day, so this is all I have energy for right now!
