Perhaps I'm reading this wrong, but you make it seem as though you never did anything academic with your child in early childhood. I don't see why everything shouldn't be taught in moderation, including academics. Would a couple of minutes a day playing Starfall be so detrimental to development in other areas that it should be avoided?
I'm not saying all parents must avoid stuff like Starfall, but that I didn't at all see what positive purpose this would serve in our family. I don't think we should take it as a given that every gifted kid needs toddler or preschool academic instruction. I personally don't think the pacing or stimulation of computer technology is healthy for the development of young minds. I question what it does to attention span and I don't assume that whatever method is being used to teach necessarily makes learning easier for all children.
For what it is worth, I suspect my child read earlier and progressed more rapidly because he didn't have instruction. Not to say that's how it would work with every child but that kids think in different ways and I don't buy that standardized teaching methods work best. There isn't one standardized linear way all kids will learn to read.
I definitely make my children the focus of my life. I almost always put off doing chores until they go to sleep, specifically so that I can spend that time doing things that I think benefit them developmentally.
Every kid should be so lucky to have a dad who is thoughtful and devoted! For me a lot depends on the age of the child. Of course kids sometimes kids deserve our undivided attention, but I also think that it is good for children to be involved in the chores of the family and they don't always have to be the center of attention. It is okay and healthy for them to learn that sometimes dinner needs to get cooked and sometimes a parent needs time to pursue their own interests. It is positive role modeling to show kids you have passions and interests. Also, kids benefit a lot from working alongside parents and feel good when they make a contribution to the family. Sure, lots of playdough and reading time is great too!
I can't imagine she came up with the proper writing grip on her own. I suspect she had to be taught, and I'm ok with that.
That reminds me of an interesting essay by John Holt. Even if you disagree with it, you might find it good food for thought.
http://www.cyc-net.org/cyc-online/cycol-1003-holt.html
