I was an obnoxious nine year old. Mom wasn't sure what to do with me until she overheard a grocery store conversation. Two other moms were lamenting over their obnoxious nine year olds. It struck Mom that my attitude was merely symptomatic of my age.

At home she explained her discovery to me, as well as the solution. I would receive an additional birthday to scoot me past this phase. She made treats for school, wrapped a present, and the whole family sang. These tokens proved to be the required talisman. After that, if I slipped into nine-year old behaviors Mom would chasten, "Remember, you're ten now."

You won't find that in any parenting book. Mom, thanks for prayerful, customized, outside-the-box solutions.