I firmly believe that when kids express an interest it should be supported. Particularly as they emerge into adolescence the first "adult" interests they have are very important to recognize and support. I believe recognizing these "first interests" are one of the "critical windows" of development. Kids emerging into adolescence can be amazingly capable if you give them a chance and treat them as adults. This can have immense positive influence on their identity and self-esteem and help them successfully navigate through adolescence to adulthood. Whether its aviation or some other field, these interests are a key to successful development.

In this case the goal is not flying solo or the private pilot or recreational pilot certificate - by regulation that can only come quite a few years later. However the student has expressed a firm interest in wanting to know how to fly, and flying, with competent airmen's knowledge, in a dual-controlled airplane is his endpoint. Above all, he wants to be treated "as a pilot".

2. Its a Great Multi-Disciplinary Project!

Aviation weaves together math, physics, meteorology, geography, cartography, physical education, engineering and many other subjects in a format that an interested student is eager to learn. Aviation could be the ultimate in project-based education!