I’ve written before that every parent thinks their child is a genius. And I stand by that.
But even within this ‘my-child-is-a-genius’ world, in our hearts, we know their limitations. We can be amazed by something new that they do, but are rarely completely dumbfounded.
Yesterday, I went upstairs (we have an upstairs!) to the kids’ playroom (we have a kids’ playroom! Pics still to come as final touches are made) to tidy up. And found this on Ashleigh’s easel:
This didn’t just dumbfound me; it knocked me off my feet. Literally. I had to sit down. Ashleigh has been able to say her ABCs for a while now, but this was completely different. The letters! In order! All by herself!
I envisaged accelerated learning programs, applications to Mensa, and for a split second worried that Ashleigh was going to become as charismatic and relatable as one Dr Sheldon Lee Cooper.
But I didn’t quite believe it. And finally worked it out: Ashleigh’s older friend had come to visit that week.
And, not surprisingly, had spent a lot of time playing with the easel.
Bazinga.
What has your child done (whether actually or supposedly) that has surprised you?
That is gold! Realism won out in the end.
And rightfully so! Had another funny moment not long after that – she completed a 100-piece puzzle on her own (gasp)… then, just as I was tearing up with pride, wiped her nose on her arm and licked the snot.
Lol Maybe her friend was teaching her the alphabet in the order.
Now that I’ve made the connection, I actually remember her friend singing the song. Probably as she was doing it! I was obviously supervising them very closely…
Ha ha I love it. You are right about being realistic when it comes to our children but also encouraging them to try new things and to dream.
Well said!
There’s a joke in our household where we say “She’s a five!” whenever our girls do anything clever – or not clever. Because while we don’t think our kids are mensa-worthy, the grandparents do. And when my now 5 yo was 3, and did something completely ordinary, my father shook his head in wonder at how smart she was, and said, “She’s not a three. She’s a five!” I think we’ll still be saying it when she’s 30.
Haha, love it!
Very cute story of your little genius . My oldest son now 19y taught me at 2 that abc song was the same tune as twinkle twinkle little star …
Good work Mr2!