2nd grader tantrums at school = ipad ?

 (also posted on Blended Families Board)

BM emailed DH and said "SS is changing schools effective next week. Just thought you should know." When he called to find out more information (SS has been in this school for 5 days) BM says that he isnt adjusting and wants to quit. He threw tantrums in his class on Friday and BM says its too hard to ask him to keep going to that school.

Did I mention he is 7 years old? Since when does a 7 year old make decisions on what school he attends? DH pointed out that he and BM agreed this school would be better for SS education and that five days is not enough time to adjust. Once DH talked to SS he opened up and said he didnt like that he has homework now. Apparently his old school in first grade didnt have a lot of homework so he wants to go to the old school because he thinks there will be less homework.

Randomly SS states he wants an ipad. DH said if you show me you are trying in school and you get good grades, I will buy you an ipad for your birthday. DH & BM decided to talk the next day (today) to make a final decision on what school SS would attend bc BM wanted time to think about what they talked about.

When DH called today SS answered the phone and said "dad I'm playing with my new ipad." DH is upset bc he wanted to use the ipad as motivation but BM bought him one bc she said it would "make getting him to go to school easier" for her. Then SS says he knew if he cried to his mom she would buy him one instead of having to earn it through his dad.

I dont think an ipad is an appropriate gift for a 7 year old but I can see why DH is upset that SS is aware that he can play mommy vs. daddy to get what he wants. Do any of your SK act in a similar fashion? In our home only good behavior is rewarded so it is discouraging to hear that its not the case in hers.