Somewhere along the line, we acquired these square plastic flat boards (about two feet across) with four wheels on them. We call them roller boards, and the kids love them. They lie on their bellies and push themselves around the house or driveway. I’ve tried rollerboard too, though I’m a bit too big, and I have to admit I see the appeal. After a good push, it feels like you’re flying. They also make a great whirring noise as you roll along.

At any given moment in our house, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll see a child zipping around the kitchen or dining room on a roller board. Our rules are pretty lax regarding the roller boards. The kids are not allowed to stand on them (usually), but otherwise they’re given a lot of freedom.

A few months back, as I was making the boys’ lunches, I heard an unusual sound from the living room. It started with a loud thud, followed by a moment of quiet, and then gales of laughter. Once the laughing began, I figured everything was okay and went back to my Peanut Butter and Jelly preparation.

Then it happened again: whirr…THUD, laugh, laugh, laugh.

And again: whir, THUD, laugh, laugh, laugh.

After a few more of these, my curiosity got the better of me. I peeked around the corner to see my six-year old and his friend lying on roller boards. The four-year old was standing back and watching. Suddenly, the friend pushed himself towards a large cardboard box next to the wall. He slammed into it headfirst, and bounced off. All three kids burst out laughing, and then my son did the exact same thing.

I walked out into the living room, shaking my head.

The laughing stopped and they all looked at me. “I think we have a new rule,” I said.

“No slamming our heads into boxes?”

“That’s right. No slamming your heads into boxes.”

They exploded with laughter.

I retreated back to the kitchen.