High pressure, academic focused educational programs have always been something I resisted. I saw other parents choose to place their kids in academic charter schools. Those kids were inside slogging through homework while mine were outside playing. So it feels odd that I currently have two kids in an academic gifted program. Not only that, but I’m completely convinced that this program is exactly what they need. When Kiki was in this program years ago I spent lots of emotional energy worrying that we’d made the wrong choice to put her in. I’m not even the slightest bit conflicted about Patch or Gleek. I can see how the structures of homework and learning are answering their developmental needs. It is not about preparing for college, or getting a scholarship. It is not about me being afraid and trying to pile up advantages for them. It certainly is not about bragging rights. My kids are where they are because of all the educational programs available to us, this is the best path for them to grow. I have to admit that some days the work load feels a bit heavy, but that is mostly due to fatigue rather than the load itself. We all get tired sometimes. Then we find the strength to keep going and we get stronger as a result. I ponder all this at the beginning of another week while I’m contemplating my many things to do. It isn’t too much. It just feels that way some days.