skates

A couple of months ago little guy came to me asking for skates. This was one of the first times he requested something on his own (he's growing up...sniff, sniff). It just so happened that around this same time he was acting up at home and at school. So I decided to make a plan. I made him a little sign that said something like "little guy wants skates (and a helmet)" and drew a picture of skates with 10 boxes complete with numbers around them(we're working on letters and numbers here, so I never give up the opportunity to teach). I told him that he had to earn ten stickers and when he did, he would get his skates. So wouldn't you know it, it worked like a charm and little guy began earning stickers.

Yesterday he earned his tenth sticker so today we went to Toys R Us after school to get these:

We are very happy with them. Keeping in mind that little guy is only three we needed a beginner's pair. These are called "My First Skates" by Fisher Price. You can adjust the size (the child should wear shoes with them) and they have a wheel control switch which contains three levels; 1-full stop (walk), 2-forward only, and 3-freewheeling. This is perfect for someone just starting out. I also got some protective gear for his knees and elbows. Unfortunately, they were sold out of helmets (go figure), so I'll be on the hunt for one of those.

And by the way, little guy has been on his most excellent behavior, especially at school. So this was a very successful plan. Let's see what the next "you have to earn it" item will be...;-)