I spend some time on youtube showing them videos of wierd science things like things exploding, rockets, galium impregnating an aluminum can, and how to make crystals using anti-moss chemicals. The main reason this fascination with spells bothers me, is that it lines up nicely with the kids lack of motivation to better himself. He is a short cut seeker of the highest degree. I've explained to him about how muscles are built but instead of connecting with that reality, he is going to perseverate on choosing a spell that will do the same thing. I like Annik's advice; let him try a few out and see what happens. If nothing else it will at least help improve his reading. 
My wife doesn't want to let him read about spells but I told her that if we block him it will only prevent him from trusting us in the future and he will always have that nagging doubt that spells are great and we just don't want him to figure that out.
Anyway, thanks for the words of encouragement, many of my friends IRL have said the same thing i.e. just an active imagination, nothing to worry about.
My wife doesn't want to let him read about spells but I told her that if we block him it will only prevent him from trusting us in the future and he will always have that nagging doubt that spells are great and we just don't want him to figure that out.
Anyway, thanks for the words of encouragement, many of my friends IRL have said the same thing i.e. just an active imagination, nothing to worry about.
