Striking a balance...

Yesterday was report card day. We were thrilled with Miles' report card. He did so great and we could not have been happier with his performance. He wasn't as happy. He got 4 A's and 1 B. The one B was one point away from the A. Had he done extra credit he could have gotten the A - a teachable moment for sure and we used it as such. Every week Miles has the chance to earn extra credit in English and he doesn't choose to do it so in this case it would have made the difference. But, our kids have to learn that for themselves. In 4th grade it really doesn't count, but as they get older it sure will. We were pleased that he was unhappy with himself because it means he cares, even though he says he doesn't. His schoolwork has improved dramatically, along with his behavior. We are trying to strike a balance. School is great...still are trying to lick the getting ready in the morning, throwing away of the trash, putting away of the toys, putting the laundry into the hamper, but I wouldn't trade any of that for the fact that school is going great for the first time in his entire life. He feels confident, comfortable and knows that he can do a good job and that means the world to all of us. So, it's all about striking a balance.Isn't that what life is about?