Embarrassed Mother: Son In Elite Secondary School But Still Buying So Many Pokemon Cards
Dear Agony Aunt,
I am writing to you because I am at my wit’s end with my son’s behavior. He is a bright young boy who attends an elite secondary school, and I have always had high hopes for his future. However, I am deeply concerned about his recent obsession with collecting Pokemon cards.
It seems that every day after school, he and his friends head to the nearby shopping mall to buy more Pokemon cards. I understand that it’s a popular trend among kids, but I am worried that it is becoming a distraction and a waste of his time. Moreover, I find it embarrassing that my son, who is attending a prestigious school, is spending his time and money on such trivial pursuits.
I have considered throwing away his Pokemon cards in an attempt to make him focus more on his studies, but I am afraid it might cause a rift between us. I want to help him, but I am not sure how to approach this situation. Please advise me on how I can handle this delicate matter and guide my son back on the right path.
Sincerely,
A Concerned Mother
Dear Concerned Mother,
I understand your distress and the desire for your son to focus on his studies, especially given the high expectations you have for him. It is natural for parents to want the best for their children and to be concerned when they see them engaging in activities that seem frivolous or distracting.
However, it’s important to approach this situation with sensitivity and understanding. Instead of immediately resorting to drastic measures such as throwing away his Pokemon cards, I would suggest having an open and honest conversation with your son. Express your concerns about his academic performance and the impact of his Pokemon card collecting on his studies. Encourage him to prioritize his time and find a balance between leisure activities and schoolwork.
It’s also important to consider the underlying reasons behind your son’s passion for collecting Pokemon cards. Is it purely for fun, or is there a deeper emotional need that is being fulfilled through this hobby? By understanding his perspective, you may be able to find a compromise that allows him to pursue his interests while also focusing on his education.
Furthermore, you may want to explore opportunities for your son to channel his enthusiasm for Pokemon cards into more productive activities, such as organizing a Pokemon card club at school or finding ways to integrate his interest in collectibles with his academic pursuits.
Remember, it’s essential to approach this situation with empathy and support rather than judgment and force. Your son needs to feel heard and understood, and by working together, you can find a solution that benefits both his personal growth and academic success.
Best wishes,
Agony Aunt