hambutt's Page

About My Family

I'm an American from New York living with my French husband and daughter Camille in Paris, France since 2006. We just had our second (and last?!) baby, Roman, two days shy of Camille's second birthday. We're raising our kids bilingual, which presents its own unique challenges, but our family language is English.

What are your children's names and birth dates?

Camille, 2 years
Roman, 2 months

Are you considering having more?

doubtful, but I haven't burned my maternity clothes yet just in case

How would you describe your parenting philosophy?

Children know a lot more than we give them credit for. Its great to expose children to new people and things but some of the simplest pleasures can come with just discovery. I think many children are over indulged these days, although I can see, as a parent, how easily one can get sucked into that at times. I think self-esteem is over rated, but I do everything I can to encourage my children. Inasmuch as one's environment has an impact on development, I am thinking more and more that there are innate gender differences, which I find utterly fascinating. I love cognitive theories.

What's your favorite parenting book (if any)?

The Happiest Baby on the Block, The Baby Name Wizard

What are your family’s favorite books and toys?

we mix it up with both French and English things, and have plenty of wood AND plastic toys. My daughter likes her Babar train as much as her baby doll and stroller. She also loves her $6.00 plastic stroller as much as her $50 wooden/gingham print one.

Camille is in her flap-book stage. Anything for discovery, and the local library is a great find.

Good Night Moon (of course!) and Brown Bear, Brown Bear are favorites.

What are your family’s favorite TV shows or movies?

Camille is a little young for TV and movies, but a friends sent us Maisie (the mouse) videos and they are huge hits.

What are your family's favorite foods?

We eat a ton of variety with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and meats and cheeses- a lot of tomatoes and avocados.

What are your family's favorite places to hang out?

the gardens/parks of Paris!

What one adjective would you choose to describe your household?

cramped

What do you see your kids doing when they grow up?

not sure! hopefully something meaningful for them and for the world! I think artist or scientist.

Describe your most humbling parenting moment.

when my daughter was in the hospital for 3 weeks with meningitis.

Who are you looking to meet on The Playground?

kindred spirits. parenting advice.