Saturday, August 23, 2008

The Joy in Manners

There is this amazing sense of accomplishment when your child says, "excuse me," "please," and "thank you" unprompted. K is only two, but always says these things so appropriately. He even will remember to say "welcome" after you say "thank you." It's small joys like these that make you feel like your at least doing something right as a parent. Bringing up a polite child in a rude world is no easy feat. Of course, by modeling this behavior, D and I have probably become a little more polite in our worlds, too.

One other joyous accolade, he loves brushing his teeth. Now, of course, there is a very important reason why he has asked three times today already if he can brush his teeth (when he first woke up, after breakfast, and after lunch.) He has a new toothbrush, but not just any toothbrush. It's one of those that plays music for the duration of how long you should be brushing your teeth. It is the greatest invention EVER! Because, he now loves brushing his teeth. He used to hate it and you had to help him brush and make him do a good job. Now he stands there for two whole minutes, brushing all of his teeth. You still have to spot check to make sure there's nothing left behind ... but thank you toothbrush manufacturer!

No comments: