"BACK TO SCHOOL REPORT CARD"

FIRST COMMON SIN - OVERINDULGENCE: First in a series on the "Seven Common Sins" of parenting the only child. Parents of only children wonder how to keep from going overboard with their kids. When is enough too much? It can feel so comfortable to be permissive, and it can be so tough to set and maintain limits. But in the long run, kids who don't get enough structure lose their way and parents are ultimately held captive by little dictators. The article on overindulgence includes sensible advice on setting limits, and how parents can control their urge to give, give, give.

BACK TO SCHOOL REPORT CARD: Dr. Carl Pickhardt clues us in to how only children respond in the classroom. They are eager learners but sometimes need to relax - along with their parents.Most parents find the first day of kindergarten both thrilling and sad. It’s an important rite of passage for their little one, but it hits home that their child is no longer a baby. For parents of only children the experience can be more trying. Naturally protective, they may try to moderate the pain of letting go by having high involvement in their child’s education. If they can afford it, they may also choose private over public schools in order to give their child a better academic environment and to assure a “safer” place to learn.

TIPPER GORE: This is an only child with vision, warmth, and a solid grasp of priorities. She chose traditional roles and still retained her individuality.

INTERVIEW WITH SUSAN NEWMAN: Psychologist and professor Dr. Susan Newman has been the parent of four and the parent of one. She shares her unique point of view with us.

DEAR ONLY CHILD Only Child offers advice and answers your questions.