I am the hyperparent.  I admit it.  Read the article enclosed and you’ll realize that all the things Leo talks about - IS ME!  So, I like some of his advice on taking it easy and letting kids be kids.  This in-line with some of the activities I’m lining up for Vanessa RIGHT NOW, Swimming and Dancing in particular.  I’ve asked her a few times whether she wants to dance or swim and she said “No”, but she does like recreational swimming - just not lessons (because she hates the fact that the teacher really wants her to submerge her face).  So my debate was, should I put in her swimming anyways?  The answer (gut feeling of a hyperparent) is yes.  So now, I’m enrolling her and her cousin to attend the same class, which will hopefully provide some self-esteem to her swimming ability (although she is super proud of the fact that she can blow bubbles and kick her legs and “swim doggy style” in shallow water!).

Check out this article:  How to Let Go of Hyperparenting and Learn to Relax With Your Kids