Hunbun

Hunter is now 15 months old and it is game on, folks. He is walking, running, climbing, jumping, babbling non-stop, and testing each boundary. He loves to be chased, swing outside, stare at strangers, read a pile of books at bedtime, help clean up, splash in the water, and share a bowl of cereal. The world is a big place and it's fun to watch him discover it. 

I often wonder about children whose parents don't pay any attention to them. How do they survive and stay safe? It's a full-time job keeping Hunter safe on a daily basis! 

As a social worker, I meet and interact with many different people from various backgrounds, cultures, and social classes. I sat with a young mother today who has very few resources and almost no social support. My heart ached for her young child who yes, may grow up with lots of love, but also may grow up without opportunities. I grew up in a world of love accompanied by the basics like cars for transportation, healthy food in adequate amounts, and lights that never got shut off in addition to the pluses of music lessons, travel, and sports. I grew up with connections and a network to fall back on. 

I have a friend whose child, at age three, tested into a special educational program for bright children. I do think he's bright and he was gifted with good genetics. However, I do have to wonder how much his home life plays into his "smarts." He participates in music classes and goes to the zoo. He isn't stuck in front of the television all day. He gets exposure to the world through books, socialization, and experiences. I do believe in IQ, but I have to wonder how much of our brilliance is also just based on how lucky we got with parents? 

Even the parents question is complicated. A single parent home versus two parent home is a factor. The parents' IQ and education is a factor. Drug use, stress, illness, domestic violence. There are so many factors. 

Hopefully Hunter got lucky. We'll see!