Kids and language

I spent a lovely few days with my niece and nephew (ages 3 and 7) over Christmas, and had the joy of participating vicariously in their evolving view of the world. My niece is a miracle of verbal skill. I know everyone says that, but this kid used complex language many months before expected, and now converses far more articulately than most 3-year-olds. This provides a unique opportunity to see into what's going on in her head, something that can be frustrating in less articulate kids.

This kid loves purple. Anything purple. Lavendar, mulberry, mauve, eggplant. Clothes, food, toys, soap. So of course everyone buys it for her. The funny part was that my dad got a purple shirt too, and she spotted it in the open box from across the room. Instantly brightening, she trotted over and said enthusiastically, "Is that for me??" Hah! It was purple, so of course it's for her!

My nephew is quieter and less articulate, but quite smart. He got a game called Clue, Jr., which is a simpler version of Clue. The goal is to figure out who ate the cake, at what time, and with what accompanying drink. He is learning to read, and is used to just saying the sounds. This means that he pronounced Clue, Jr. as "Kludger"!! Perfecto. :-) I plan to call it that from now on.