It is late afternoon and I am enjoying of what is left of the autumn sunshine, accompanied by a very inquisitive and outspoken five year old, who always have lots of questions whilst scratching around and looking for objects that interest her.

Here it comes. 

Why do you have a lighter in your room?
Do you smoke?
No, it is to light the candle.

My mommy has candles too.
Why are yours purple and hers white?
Mine is lavender and hers another fragrance. Jasmine I think.

Can I have those seashells?
No, you cannot have it.
Why not?
Because it is mine.
Where did you get it?
At a wedding.
Whose wedding?
People you don’t know.
But what are their names?
Gives her the names to satisfy her curiosity.

Do you want this bubble-gum?
No, thank you.
I have more at home.

Did you give your cats name yourself?
Yes, I have.
Did you know that my daddy gave my name before I was born?
Really? Did he tell you that?
Yes, he did. Smiling smugly.

I’m going to eat my ice-lolly now.
Do you want a piece?
No, thank you.

Then out of nowhere…

Look what snowy is doing! She is rude! She is showing me her teeth! So. Imitating the cat.

I turned around and the cat was making a hissing sound with mouth wide open as if to say ‘You are invading my space kid.’

Scold her.
Snowy don’t be rude! I say

She says you talk too much.
Aaah cats can’t talk! Giggling and continues to lick her ice-lolly.

Phew, that was a mouthful! I should thank the cat for coming to my rescue! Ha-ha

Nevertheless, in my opinion kids should have the freedom to express themselves, within limits too off course and not in a rude manner.  It gives them the confidence to explore and learn.

Look at it this way, whether it is your own child or children, nieces or nephews, somehow, they will always remind you of how you were at that age.

Though sometimes there is a big difference in personalities, or you have to admit that you were exactly the same.