Some parents simply refuse to pull their kids aside, take the time, and
legitimately make an effort to teach their kids anything. These parents
think that kids learn through experience, osmosis, or only at school. Every
time I sit down and make a serious effort to methodically teach my son
something, I'm proud to say that he pays perfect attention, asks serious
questions, and enjoys it. Often he goes on and on about the subject on his
own afterwards trying to impress me with what he learned. I used to "use"
him as a practice student for CFI lessons, I never thought any of it was
really sinking in until one day I heard him telling his little sister about
the aerodynamics of a spin as he chased her around the living room playing
airplane. I know it was purely rote, but I was impressed that he'd
remembered it and repeated it correctly. If he continues this type of
behavior, I will have no problem teaching him to fly someday, but I am also
sure that I will send him out with a few of my mentors for check flights and
progress checks.

Jim

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in message
oups.com...
My kids have flown around in my Mooney their entire lives. Now they are
getting close to the teen years and I'm thinking of buying them a plane
and teaching them to fly in it. I've got a few years before they are
old enough but I'm starting to think about it. Some group suggestions
would be appreciated...

1) If I buy the plane just long enough for them to learn to fly can I
aviod California sales/use tax by being a dealer? How long can a dealer
hold the plane? If I only need the plane for 12 months or so, it would
be sad to have to pay 9% sales tax on the plane.
2) I'm throwing around the best plane to teach them in that would be
fun and not too expensive for dad. I'm thinking maybe a Taylorcraft or
a Lucsome. I learned in a Cessna 140 so that might be a good choice
too. I could just buy them a C150 but having something fun for dad to
fly (i.e. Aeronca, etc) would make it all the better!
3) Has anyone else on the list taught their kids to fly? I do know of
two other CFIs that have done this. The kids loved it. However, once
they finished their private life seems to prevent much other flying
until they establish in a career. I figure the boys will be pretty busy
with scouts, high school, and trying to get into a good college they
will want to earn their private and then set it aside for some years.

-Robert, CFI