Charm School

I get told a lot that my kids are outgoing. Outgoing, strong willed, determined, opinionated... those are words I hear often. I've said before in this blog that I wouldn't trade their personalities for anything, and I mean that. I'm glad I don't have shy kids. Nothing wrong with shy kids, but my own personality seems to relate better to the stubborn, obnoxious and extroverted ones.

If you ever happen by my children in a store, or out on the street, chances are you will be barraged by a litany of questions... "what's your name? how old are you? what are you doing today? what's your baby's/mom's/dad's/friend's name? why are you buying that? do you know my mommy? are you two friends? where are you going?" and the list goes on and on. In addition, you will be treated to more information than you ever needed to know, such as their ages, their own names, the names of each other, my name, their dad's name, our ages (they have to keep asking us this question as they often forget), what our plans are for that day, where we've been, where we're going, any special events coming up in our lives, and whether either of them have had any punishments or mishaps that day.

I am so used to this behavior I hardly even notice it anymore, but it always takes me by surprise the people that are genuinely uncomfortable by two small children talking to them. So, if there is anyone out there reading this blog that finds themselves out in the world with one or two or ten very curious, insatiable children, here is my advice: talk to them! Interact with them. Say hi (loud enough for them to hear), smile, and share a snippet of information. You don't have to stop for long, and you don't have to get too personal, but you would be surprised at how much it makes their day. And take it from someone who is as curious as they are... it's fascinating to learn about the people around you! I promise they won't bite. They won't even laugh. That's the great thing about small children -- they take everything at face value. No judgments.

And the best part about this idea is, you won't have to hear as you breeze past my two louder-than-is-usually-necessary children yelling "He/she can't hear me! Why aren't they talking to me? They can't hear me! I should say it again, louder!"