In the city park I overheard a father trying to teach multiplication to his five-year-old. “What’s three times five?” he asked. She shrugged. “C’mon,” he said. “What’s five plus five plus five?” In a barely audible voice, she said, “I don’t know.” “It’s simple,” he shouted. “Think!” She was on the edge of tears as I walked past. Our eyes met and I mouthed the word, “fifteen.” She smiled, looked at her father, and said, “Fifteen?” “Finally,” he said. “That wasn’t so hard was it?” She didn’t answer. I could have answered, but I zipped my lips and kept walking.
Shelley
27/8/2021 08:03:25 am
A beautifully written evocative story Jim. Loved it.
Sandra James
27/8/2021 09:40:45 am
I'm sure most of us would like to give him 15 lashes!
Jennifer Duncan
27/8/2021 02:35:14 pm
All those poor kids prodded and pushed to do what they can't do! Parents wanting to be proud of their kids. They should just love them instead.
Peggy Gerber
27/8/2021 02:50:03 pm
Kids are under so much pressure these days. The last thing they need is a bullying parent.
Sue Clayton
28/8/2021 05:00:14 am
Leave multiplication tables to the teachers; they're much better at it than ignoramus dads.
Susan F. Reid
28/8/2021 02:28:30 pm
Some people can't teach. Giving the child the answer didn't help either. Comments are closed.
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"Classic"
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