Letters to the Editor
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Daycare
Goodness me. More about daycare. My three kids all went to good daycare in Ames, Iowa, where most of the teachers were trained at the Iowa State University Child Development school. The center I used was clean, comfortable, and safe. They started going at about 2 and a half, after in home care a few hours per day every day. The kids are now 27, 23, and 13. The older ones are gainfully employed, socially well adjusted, articulate, and liberal. They have always done well in school, always had friends, and firmly believe in daycare for their own children when they have them. When they were in daycare, I actually thought their social skills were pretty good. They knew how to look adults in the eye and ask for what they wanted. They knew how to share and take turns. They knew how to buddy up and walk in a group down the street. They were not always happy, but they lived an orderly and enjoyable life. They show no attachment problems, and they are enterprising. I think good daycare is great, and I also think that we should never forget that not every mom is a great constant companion for her kids. Some moms are neurotic, unhappy, angry, frustrated, and demanding. Best not to be stuck in the house with her. See Cary for more info on what can happen on that front.