I know exactly what you mean, PMom. I was a scout leader when my kid was younger.

My kids are pretty well behaved, at least when I'm around. It'* amazing what a couple of swats on the butt when they're younger can accomplish when they're "grown up".

Just swats on the butt, mind you, not "beat the hell out of 'em". There'* a difference between punishment and abuse...

I think it gets better over time. Katie played soccer for 3 years. Keep in mind she'* respectful, but not everyone on the team was the first year.

I was just talking with Katie'* soccer coach in the parking lot last night as we were leaving work, and he said it got easier with time. The third year was the best, and I'm betting it was because after 3 seasons with the same coach, they finally all learned respect for him.

Kinda a coincidence that I ran into him yesterday, talked about this very thing, and then this morning, here'* Pmom ranting.

Ahhh...the very reason I'm going into Secondary Education...not Elementary. I'm sorry that coaching didn't go well for you, I can't stand little kids who haven't been taught respect yet their parents seem to think that that'* not their job, it'* everyone elses.

I think I should clarify this a bit...these kids were not Andrew'* age, 8-9 year olds, these kids are 10-13 year olds!!!! I think it has to do with hormones or something!!!!! I work elementary children all the time, and they are great.....it is middle school children grades 5-7 who are the pain in the butt!!!!

Oh, ouch, those kids should know better!! Wow.