Every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon I babysit for a family that goes to my church. For the first 3 hours, it's just me, a 20 month baby and a three year old; for the last three, we add a six year old. More words here.When they're being smiley kids and we're having fun, my words make everything better. For instance, today we were playing carnival and having a blast. I was the "ticket-taker", which meant that the two older kids had to go into the toy box and find me matchbox cars to count as fare to ride the "rides" (which were actually just the couch cushions). I say "Enjoy the ride" or give the generic ride warning, "Please keep your arms and legs inside the ride at all times" etc., and the kids’ faces light up with excitement.
When they're hitting each other or throwing things, my words are not quite as fun. It is unreal how much a simple: "I'm going to count to five, and if you don't stop doing this you're going on time-out" can affect a child. I get to four and they instantly stop hitting, throwing or breaking.
And don't even get me started about words of praise. If I tell the three-year-old that I'm going to tell her mother how "big of a helper" she was, her mood is instantly infinitely better. It's amazing how powerful words can be. Sure, I'm not swaying an audience of intellectuals, but I am changing the mood of a trifecta of wonderful kids!
This is awesome! I used to babysit all the time, and most people don't realize this, but we affect the kids that we are around. Those kids look up to you! Such a great story. Thanks for posting!
ReplyDeletethat is so true. I was with my 5 younger cousins since I coulld take care of them 5 all under the age of 15. Now a days it's not bad because they have matured and all but I do remmeber the time that words really did effect them. Its funny how such simple words can have such a huge impact.
ReplyDeleteFor the record, you sound like a wonderful babysitter.
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