What I Say vs. What My Toddler Understands

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Parenting Insights

By Laura Bennett

Updated: Aug. 21, 2015
Originally Published: Feb. 9, 2013

If you’ve ever felt like your toddler hails from a distant galaxy, you’re not alone. Communication between adults and toddlers can often feel like a profound cultural divide. With only a few moments of peace to reflect, I find myself contemplating the nuances of our interactions, even if they are ultimately unresolvable.

The “translations” between my child and I can be perplexing. It’s akin to ordering a beverage in Paris while speaking in a language completely foreign to the locals. For all I know, the person I’m addressing believes I’m inquiring about purchasing a unicorn with a polka-dot saddle. Who even rides unicorns these days?

Consider these examples:

What I say: Please tidy up your toys.
What my toddler hears: Let’s have a car rally and empty the entire toy bin onto the floor.

What I say: Please finish your dinner.
What my toddler hears: Drive your broccoli and carrots around the table, up your arm, and over your forehead. Then meow like a kitten for four minutes straight.

What I say: Get dressed.
What my toddler hears: Absolutely nothing at all.

What I say: Stop touching that.
What my toddler hears: Please continue to touch that item.

What I say: Don’t leap off the stairs.
What my toddler hears: That was thrilling! Next time, try a tuck-and-roll into a somersault and crash into the dining room table.

What I say: Please share with your sibling.
What my toddler hears: Never, ever let her have that toy. Keep it safe at all costs, as if it’s the last toy on Earth.

What I say: No.
What my toddler hears: Ask me repeatedly until I change my mind.

What I say: Put on your shoes, please.
What my toddler hears: Remove your shirt and place your pants on your head.

Perhaps I should consider relocating to another planet. If there’s any life out there, the communication challenges will likely mirror those of parenting. I can imagine asking the same question repeatedly and witnessing some rather unconventional fashion choices, like wearing pants on their head and fedoras on their feet.

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In summary, the communication gap between parents and toddlers can often feel insurmountable, characterized by a unique interpretation of words that diverges significantly from our intended meaning. Understanding this dynamic can help parents navigate the complexities of toddler interactions while fostering patience and creativity in parenting.

Keyphrase: toddler communication challenges

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