Molly's Guide - Summer 2013 - Issue 7 (1)

Molly’s guide to...
Ruddocks of
Lincoln
noticing the difference
Henry Ruddock, chairman of Ruddocks of Lincoln, father
of twins Sarah & John (aged 8 ) – talks to Molly’s Guide
about the difference between his two children...
I was going to write about garden toys, but
as summer happened on the first day of the
Lincolnshire Show, too late!
Have you noticed how different boys and
girls are? Having twins – just 8 years-old
(Why do you think Ruddocks started a Toy
Department?!) I have often been asked what
sex (answer: one of each), and then (wait for
it) “are they identical?” I mean it makes you
wonder what people do with their time. It’s
not just that difference though, they learn in
such different ways. The girl can do sums and
spelling, seemingly only needing to be told
once. School is for girls.
It’s like boys have so much going on in
their heads (even at that age…) that they
don’t even have ears. Either that or they are
wired differently. Maybe both? He struggles
with adding two single numbers (really),
even though he is clearly not stupid. Good
gloating opportunity for girl.
Wife (credit where
it’s due) bought
“Shut the Box” a
few days ago to
help. This has
12 wooden flaps
numbered 1-12,
closed according to
the numbers thrown
on two dice (and if
anyone can find a
shorter way of describing the game let me
know). More interesting, a seven could close
a 1, 2 and 4 (or 3 and 4, or 5 and 2). Ever
noticed how competition aids learning for
boys? Shame it’s not allowed these days. No
wonder he can’t add.
As for spelling, I am still recovering from the
shock when he readily agreed to do them
yesterday. It’s usually “Noooooo!!” Life really
is full of surprises.
18 tel: 01522 535068 email: info@mollysguide.co.uk molly’s guide • issue 7 • Summer 2013