If you have a kid who is just learning to talk and you’re pushing for the kid to learn the word “Mama” or “Daddy,” stop what you’re doing and read my words first.
Forget “Mama” and “Daddy.” Your kid will learn those words soon enough and after they say it 50 times in a row (in one day) you’ll wish they had learned a different word instead. You will wish they had learned a word like this word:
HELP.
You’re skeptical, I know. That’s OK. I anticipated that.
“Help” as a first word is, admittedly, a little untraditional–but trust me–it’s a good one. I have found the word “Help” to be quite accomodating in many situations. It also, in many instances, cuts down on frustration level and tantrum frequency.
Allow me to introduce the following examples:
Exhibit A
An upside down jacket on any given day could potentially send many kids over the edge. Can’t you just picture your kid totally freaking out, screaming and yelling in frustration at the discomfort and awkwardness of it all while simultaneously turning around in circles like a dog chasing its tail?
…Not if they know the word “Help.”
Exhibit B
Big sister is strangling little sister. When doesn’t this happen? It could be a major problem in many households, but not mine because my kid managed to squeak out the word “Help” in between gasps of air.
Exhibit C
Kid playing with underwear. We all know what she’s thinking: I love myself some underwear, but what the hell are THESE supposed to be? There’s no back door on these undies! I don’t know what I’m supposed to do with these. “Help…!?!”
Exhibit D
A completely and utterly trashed playroom from which I hear two very sweet, pleading voices call out:
“Help? Help?”
I think not, but I’m glad they knew enough to ask.
Thanks for being here!
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elise says
June 24, 2011 at 9:46 amI like that the baby is being strangled and your first response is not to HELP her…but grab the camerea…cute photo, than life…and that’s why i love you!!!
Robyn says
June 24, 2011 at 9:51 amShe hadn’t said “HELP!” yet. I helped her once she said it.
Fish says
June 24, 2011 at 2:39 pmI was thinking the same thing about capturing the moment and then assisting…(assuming that the photos weren’t just re-enactments done by actors)
It is all about priorities…
Robyn says
June 24, 2011 at 2:40 pmYou know me…the great priority multitasker!! 🙂 🙂
Jules from a Little Bite of Life says
June 24, 2011 at 6:50 pmYou’ve got a new follower, I love, love, love your blog! I agree that the first word should be help, and your Exhibits well prove that point!
Robyn says
June 24, 2011 at 7:31 pmI’m so happy to have you, Jules! Believe me, it’s a mutual love fest.
Hazel M. Wheeler says
June 27, 2011 at 5:44 pmMay I use this idea in my parent’s reference book I’m working on? So excellent, that word, help. Saves sibling relationships, endless frustration and so much more.
After help, of couse, is “me do it!”, and then we have to teach them that it’s okay to ask for help all over again. I know a few adults who might benefit from being reintroduced to the idea of asking for help, too.
Robyn says
June 27, 2011 at 8:41 pmOf course you can use it. I would be honored if you sent them here or used it or whatever you want. “Me do it” is cute, Lovey says “I do!” for that. “I do, mommy. I do!”
Hazel M. Wheeler says
June 27, 2011 at 5:44 pmOh, and so glad to see your new site. Looks good!