It all started with Lego. As a small boy, I was obsessed with Lego. Just thinking about those countless hours digging through my Lego box for Just The Right Sixer Block makes me all misty-eyed.
Most birthdays and Christmases I’d get a Lego model. Starting with the basic building block sets, then the Space Lego sets with the fancy V-shaped wing bits, then the grown-up Technical Lego sets (you could tell they were grown-up because they had holes in).
I’d empty the bits out on the dining table. Lay out the immaculately-produced manual, and turn to the first page. Looking at the first diagram, finding the bits that matched the picture. Savouring the anticipation.
“Would you like me to help?” my Dad would ask. Innocently.
…
Twenty minutes later I’d be sitting, chin in hands, frustratedly watching my Dad make the model.
He wouldn’t get away with it for long. Mum would come in and say “oi! Let Simon make it!!” Dad would reluctantly relinquish the model.
I’d dismantle what he’d done and start again from scratch, silently vowing that when I was a Dad, I’d never barge in and monopolise my son’s toys.
No, I didn’t. Even writing that I realised I was kidding myself. I vowed that one day I’d barge in and monopolise MY son’s toys.
I’ve tried to deny it. When Tom got a lovely set of building blocks for his birthday, I tried to let him learn to play with them at his own pace.
It didn’t last long. I thought I’d just help a little.
Tom, quite rightfully, was having none of it.
Today, building blocks. Tomorrow, his science projects.
Far as I’m concerned, the whole point of having kids (or, in my case, a nephew) is to be able to play with their toys.
Just make sure Tom gets a turn from time to time.
Between building blocks and science projects is Lego… that’s what I’m waiting for.
isn’t being allowed to play with toys (again) without being frowned upon one of those many reasons to have kids
Very true Arjan. Although most blokes tend to play with toys anyway well into adulthood these days, it seems.
*looks at his warhammer 40k models..hmm are they toys or is it a game..pfft who am I fooling*
I’ve spent about £200 on lego this year alone for evan
The age on the box says 5-10. He’s 3. He has no ability to make the model.
Kerry hasn’t quite caught on yet.
Like Dan says, Lego is awesome.
And can’t believe Tom did that to Stonehenge.