The author has spent most of his life around children. Born in Iowa in 1950, he was privileged to have a close extended family. While growing up, he helped raise and spend many thousands of hours with his seven cousins, uncles, aunts, grandparents, and his two brothers. Playing outside, climbing trees and enjoying the four seasons kept him physically active. Computers and television were not viable alternatives for entertainment, so play and imagination were critical. After spending a summer in France while in college, he learned French and was impressed with the civility and charm of the French and their children. Returning to the university, he was inspired by the children he met to change his major to education. Now retired from teaching, he does private tutoring, and is blessed with a son, a daughter and two grandsons. He presently resides in Naples, Florida.