I don't think this thread has been that crazy at all. I think there are a great number of articulate, well thought out, respectful posts in it. I for one have benefited a great deal from pretty much all of the posts. They've forced me to think about my situation and the broader one from a different angle which can only be a good thing. It is a topic that's close to home for lots of us (mums and dads) and I think this thread is actually a great example of how controversial or emotive topics can be discussed and debated in a mature and productive way. Looking back over the thread, a lot of the posts are actually saying pretty much the same thing. We all have far more in common with each other than the differences between us.

I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to contribute to this thread. It's been enlightening