As the kids TV show "The Magic School Bus" saying goes..."Learn, take chances, make mistakes." Well hopefully no serious mistakes. It's a great challenge to learn to fly. I'm not a youngster, but I'm glad I did not wait until I was old and gray. Your kids will see Dad (or Mom) with a desire to learn and a skill very few people have. This will hopefully spark their interest to learn as well.

Flying is one of the few things in life that brings so many disciplines to the table such as math, science, communication, emotion, health, geography, law, etc.

As far as the "instrument rating" goes, it is a personal decision on your part to carry any passengers. As mentioned earlier, an IFR ticket will make you a better pilot. I learn something every time I fly. But I believe it is safer than strapping your kids in the family van.

[This message has been edited by scottd (edited 07-06-2000).]