Despite a limited vocabulary (maybe 20-25 words? I've stopped trying to count), my toddler is super communicative these days. Figuring out how kids communicate without words is a non-stop challenge, but it's a fun one. We're at the point that previously felt like it was never going to arrive, when nearly every day brings a new word, a new skill, or a new discovery. In fact, moments ago he started showing me his newly acquired typing abilities. Check it out:
ufg ff f o08wdbddd xc
*Tear*
I'm just so proud.
Now that he's well on his way to taking over the world, my child has no qualms about making his opinions (about everything) known to me and whoever else will listen. Gone are the days when I have to wonder if he's done with his sandwich (which is important information to know since I've got about a three-second window to react between when he decides he's done and the time it hits the floor). Gone are the days when I'm not sure if he understands just how cool it is that he is able to retrieve his shoes when it's time to go outside; the look of pride on his face confirms that he already knows. Gone are the days when I have to guess which book he wants me to read, since now he points, picks one up, and puts it in my hands. We're waving bye bye to my days of wondering, just like we're waving at every living (and often, non-living) thing that goes by our living room window.
That said, it should come as no surprise that he's not holding back when it comes to opinions about me and my parenting. I used to think I would have a hard time managing the influx of unsolicited advice from all the well-meaning (and self-righteous) adults in my life, but as it turns out, the most enthusiastic source of parenting feedback is my own kid. He has...a lot of feelings, and he's not hesitating to share them with me. They include: