The problem with teaching a child to read

is that when you go to the zoo, said child is given a copy of the zoo's map, including demonstrations, shows and attractions. That child can read that there is a train and rides are available at specific times. That child then requests a train ride in the presence of her three year old brother. Much wailing and gnashing of teeth commences when the mother of said children says that $3/person is more money than the mother is willing to spend. (That equals $9 for the three of us!) Mother is unwilling to set a precedent and says discussion will take place following dinner that night.

Following dinner, Father says to mother, "Why did you tell them there was a train? I don't point it out to them." Mother replies, "I didn't! Someone knows how to read!" hmmph

So Father and Mother agreed that there would be no train rides, because if we go one time, the children will expect to go every time. Daughter cried and said she would not go to the zoo anymore if she could not ride a train. Father and Mother agreed. No more trips to the zoo.

PS -we've managed to go to the zoo since Grace was a baby and she NEVER discovered the train!! I just Had to teach her to read.