[gerdesj]

Ok, got it (thanks) - something that would simply follow the rules to find a solution yet be unable to think outside the box. It would, for example, not even "think" of dabbing a small amount of Super-Glue on the edges to achieve the theoretical maximum.

I don't recall the initial problem as stated precluding outside assistance.

My point stands: dad is pushing daughter to use the rather large brain that she has to solve a problem. Whether or not she becomes a Hacker as we know it does not matter - she is learning critical and analytical thought processes through this game.

That is one of the many gifts that any parent can bestow on their progeny and I'm impressed at his approach in this case. Society as a whole becomes a little richer as a whole through these little steps.

[52-6F-62]

Couldn't agree more. It's a lesson in perceiving the largest range of possibilities.

Coming from a family with a less money than average North Americans, this is an especially good lesson. For countries with enormous possibility, but few open paths to achievement, the value of this kind of ability in thinking can not be overstated.