As a parent, I often find myself in the position of being a source of embarrassment for my children. From singing classic hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’” at the top of my lungs during car rides to cheerfully declaring my love for them at school drop-off, my antics seem to know no bounds. However, my most notorious habit is engaging with strangers — and I do it frequently, especially when my kids are by my side.
It doesn’t matter who they are — elderly, young, male, female, single, married, or even those without homes. I’m an equal-opportunity conversationalist, ready to strike up a dialogue about anything: the weather, an intriguing book someone is reading, or the challenge of keeping a toddler seated in a shopping cart at the store.
When dining out, I’ll often ask neighboring tables what they’ve ordered and whether they’d recommend it. I chat with security personnel about local sports teams and engage delivery people in conversations about their pets. Even in passing moments, I pause to speak with homeless individuals I encounter, and my children must join in these interactions. Their sighs and fidgeting signal their embarrassment, but I gently encourage them to participate. A simple prompt like, “Right, sweetie?” often helps them engage, and soon enough, they’re nodding and smiling along with the conversation.
In a society increasingly overshadowed by negativity — from violence to discrimination and illness — connecting with strangers feels like a powerful antidote. Each shared moment is an opportunity to reveal the goodness I believe resides within us all. A friendly “How’s it going?” can bridge the gap in our often isolating world. We all yearn for connection and for the chance to share our best selves, and talking to strangers is a manageable way to foster that connection. More often than not, these encounters are met with warmth and kindness, reinforcing my faith in humanity while breaking down barriers. I want my children to experience this too.
We all tend to wander through our lives, absorbed in our thoughts or glued to our screens. We often shield ourselves behind sunglasses or hats, moving through our days with a sense of urgency, barely noticing those around us. While there are times when people genuinely prefer to be left alone, I can usually sense when someone is receptive to a conversation. Recognizing these cues is essential, and I ensure my kids are aware of them as well.
For those concerned that encouraging my children to speak with strangers may expose them to danger, it’s crucial to note that I’ve taken the time to teach them how to interact safely. The U.S. Department of Justice indicates that less than a fraction of 1% of missing children cases involve abductions by strangers. Yes, there are risks associated with engaging with unknown individuals, but I don’t want my children to fear everyone they encounter. They know to trust their instincts and that if a situation feels off, they should avoid it. They’re not being impolite if they choose not to greet someone or respond to inappropriate comments.
While it’s true that some individuals pose a threat, I believe they’re in the minority. Most people appreciate the opportunity to interact. When I compliment someone’s adorable puppy or their quirky sandals, it’s as if I’ve flipped a switch — their expressions brighten, and they engage back. This connection is part of our humanity. We crave community, even from strangers, whether they’re juggling children or just going about their day.
So yes, kids, I will continue to embarrass you with my enthusiastic renditions of pop classics, my loud declarations of love, and my eagerness to speak with strangers. And I fully expect you to embrace these moments too.
For those interested in expanding family connections, you can explore resources about at-home insemination methods for growing your family in different ways, like the at-home intracervical insemination syringe kit mentioned in our other blog post. Additionally, for anyone considering pregnancy, a comprehensive resource is available at Healthline, detailing intrauterine insemination (IUI) options, which can be essential when planning for your future. You can also check out more information on this topic here.
In summary, encouraging children to engage with strangers can foster social skills, empathy, and community connections, while ensuring they understand safety and awareness. By modeling this behavior, we not only enrich their lives but also contribute positively to our society.