I was fortunate enough to be the eldest of my mother's seven children and the pleasure of having three of my own and a stepson. I spent a lot of time changing diapers, wiping noses, and kissing ouchies. I carried the kids I dropped off at daycare on my hip, helped dress them for their first school dance, attended their graduation, and was even there when they had their first baby. I spent a lot of time analyzing their behavior, their moods or lack thereof. I concluded that there are 4 types of children and I was lucky enough to have one of each. The 4 different types are: The Superstar, The Kool Kat, The Lil' Mama or Little Man (depending on the gender of the child) and The Rebel. First we have The Superstar. They have had the spotlight since the day they were born. It will most likely start right away, when you have to purchase a special formula. The doctor tells you he has a sensitive stomach. Then, when the child is in kindergarten, you are told that the reason they painted their shoes was so that theirs would be better than Jamie's. In second grade you refuse to bring her lunch for a week straight because you didn't buy a packed lunch like everyone else does. Sixth grade prom is more like prom night, and you still can't believe he asked for a limo. Nothing gets done at home. Your superstar is on the phone for hours. In high school, the joy of the start of a new school year is taken away by the fact that someone pays $200 Nikes. Not to mention, this baby is the coolest thing around. They cost you the sports they play, the movies they have to see, and every new thing someone else has. When college comes you believe your finances would benefit if you simply paid your out of state tuition. Then we have... half the paper ......de you refused to buy another one, they refused to go to school. You threatened everything, even their lives, but you couldn't do anything. After a couple of years of McDonald's and paying their own bills (since you decided they needed a reality check) they decided that getting a GED and attending college would be a better way. You gladly help, but you still can't understand why it took so long for them to recover. Every child is unique. Each one is a pleasure to watch grow. Some types will keep you broke, others will drive you crazy. Others will make you roll on the floor, while still others will confuse you so much that you will seek out a psychologist for better understanding. All types take a different path along the road of life, but all are capable of ending up in the same place with guidance and direction. My advice would be to simply enjoy them, love them and appreciate every moment. It doesn't last long.