DEAR MISS MANNERS: It’s nearing that time again: time for the ridiculous show of kindergarten "graduations." I generally decline invitations to any such events, but this year I have a grandniece "graduating" who lives in the same town I do.
I feel I should attend and do my best to limit any eye-rolling. Is a gift required? What does one get a 6-year-old for this event?
GENTLE READER: You seem to have difficulty appreciating the solemnity of the occasion and your grandniece’s mastery of academic skills. Therefore, Miss Manners suggests that you approach it, instead, as the young lady’s entry into (slightly) higher education.
You would not, then, give her a toy, but an introduction to a subject that interests you -- science, art, history, whatever that may be. The present could be a book at the first-grade level or, better yet, an excursion with you to a museum, laboratory, national monument or such. Along with your sincere efforts to spark her interest.
Think of the future, when you attend the ceremony at which she receives her Ph.D. in this field. Then you will not have to worry about rolling your eyes, but about shedding a proud tear.