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Last fall was a first-of-its-kind season. I did not arrange (安排) any after-school classes formy children. No swimming.'No music lessons. No play dates. Nothing.

Once they finished their homework, they were free to do what they pleased, but only onehour of TV. In the beginning, my sons, Ben, 11, and Nick, 9, were anxious about this sudden,unplanned freedom. I had to, push them out of the door with a ball, a bike, and so on. "Play? Iordered.

I learned that this new plan takes time, patience and a lot of faith in the theory that havingexcellent grades isn't really important.

When my older kids, now in college and high school, were young, I brought in the rules ofmodern parenting. They are unspoken, but followed carefully. First, you must let your childhave a variety of activities. After all, you never know where you'll find a genius (天才). Second, if the child shows the slightest talent (才能), the activity must be pushed with lessons, special coaching (辅导) and practice of several days a week. Every minute shouldbe taken and every minute has a purpose. That was really too much for my children.

Now with the new plan, we told stories, We listened to music. And' the. kids played with bikes, balls, and whatever was handy. Nobody kept score. In fact, the boys played outside so much that the lawn was worn down to the soil in places. They've made friends with those who come from all over the neighbourhood to play games.

We like those peaceful evenings. Ben and Nick have a good time this fall, MaYbe that's because the time offhas allowed us to enjoy each other's company;