I was watching the old classic 'Gremlins' one lazy Saturday. I hadn't seen it since I was in college, and a lot has changed since then, one of the most important of which is the fact that I've started a family.

The older, slightly fatter version of me was struck with the similarities of raising gremlins (or Mogwai, their pre-pupal persona) and children. People without kids will probably gasp as they read this, shocked by my willingness to compare my own progeny to villainous little demons. But I take heart in the knowledge that my fellow parents will understand completely.

The first, and most obvious similarity is their mischievous nature. I can't speak for everyone, but my children, just like gremlins, are in everything! Touching, exploring, playing, breaking... I've went though 6 DVD players since having children. They climb on everything, and swing off of anything that will support their weight (even if it can't support it for very long, and usually doesn't). My two older sons are geniuses at taking things apart. Most of the time it's things I'd have preferred stay in one piece. They also have an uncanny knack for breaking their toys, and re-purposing the refuse into new gadgets the manufacturer never intended.

My kids curious (if sometimes destructive) nature, not withstanding, it was the parenting where I found the most striking resemblance. It was the rules! The rules that governed the Mogwai, the rules that their owner carelessly disregarded. It reminded of the discipline and vigilance that all parents must have, and the consequences of laziness. You have to become a parent fully appreciate the pressure of having someone's life in your hands.

We all want our kids to be cute little Mogwai. Some of us though, don't understand the huge part we play in that. It's our care and guidance that lead kids to become who they are. I guess my point is that if your kid is a gremlin, it's probably your fault...