My children often perceive me as lacking intelligence. While one might assume I would find this disheartening, it doesn’t bother me in the slightest. In fact, I find it quite amusing.
I feel incredibly lucky to be married to a man who can solve complex mathematical equations in his head and recite the periodic table of elements at a moment’s notice. This is particularly advantageous because when my third grader struggles with math homework, I can effortlessly say, “Why don’t you ask Daddy?”
Yes, he can convincingly act like a complete novice, but that’s merely a façade. A few weekends ago, he transformed our kitchen into a makeshift laboratory “for the kids.” He was like a child enthralled with candy, launching paper airplanes throughout our home using nothing but fishing line and a balloon. There was no homework involved; he was simply bored and being a wonderful father.
Science fair projects? They are a breeze. Pre-calculus, algebra, trigonometry, physics… “Daddy will be back soon. Would you like to watch Mommy juggle in the meantime?” The irony is that I hold a Master’s degree in Science, while he does not. Life truly has a sense of humor.
If Daddy isn’t around, I turn to the next best resource: the internet. “That’s a great question, my dear… you should look it up online!”
I once read a non-fiction book about the sun to my kids, thinking I was fostering their curiosity. Instead, I found myself inundated with questions like, “Mom, if the sun is going to burn out someday, what will happen to the world? Don’t people need the sun to survive? When will it burn out, Mom? Tomorrow?” They were terrified and, to be honest, so was I. Why? Because I have no idea when the sun will actually burn out, and I regret reading that book because now I’m the one who’s worried.
From now on, I’ll direct all such inquiries to their father. If they want to know what time school starts, where their shoes are, or the difference between “seen” and “saw,” they can come find me.
Ignorance is bliss. More wine, please.
This article was originally published on April 8, 2012.
For more insights on parenting and navigating life’s questions, visit this related post. If you’re looking for authoritative resources on home insemination, check out this comprehensive guide. Additionally, for valuable information about fertility treatments, refer to this excellent resource.
Summary:
The article humorously explores the dynamics of parenting and the role of perceived intelligence in family life. The author embraces the idea of playing the fool in front of her children, relying on her husband’s expertise and the internet for answers, while highlighting the comedic irony of her own advanced education.