kids

Parents frequently need to discuss issues, but their kids rarely give them the opportunity to do so. Speaking freely is usually counterproductive, because you're often talking about the kids (e.g. they'll flip out if they find out you're discussing whether they can have candy). But today I realized we've stumbled upon a method which actually helps the kids a lot.

Currently, we alternate between speaking Spanish and using large words (at least 3 or 4 syllables). It's obviously beneficial for them to be exposed to multiple languages. And using large words not only gives my own vocabulary a workout, it's great for the kids. After a few uses, our 3 year old is randomly using 4-syllable words in sentences. Now I'll have to dig deeper for harder words, and he'll pick those up too! There isn't anything much cuter than hearing a 3 year old trying to say "complicated" or "detonation".

Audra really enjoys being carried around. When I come home from work, she instantly becomes upset until I pick her up. When we go out, she needs to spend some time "up". It's one of the only words she knows. The whole thing reminds me of koala babies, as she clings to me while I walk around and do chores.

Unfortunately, her mommy isn't quite as tall as me. Today we discovered that mommy must be too short, because Audra said "up" after being picked up. She continued to fuss and say "up" until we understood: it doesn't count unless she's up high with daddy.