Wild Ride

The first years are nothing short of a wild ride. Early childhood development is continual transformation. When I think that only six months ago our daughter began to walk, and now I watch her climb up and stand on anything, including a table if she can get that far, I see how in comparison adult development is smooth and easy sailing.

Language is next. Daily she’s playing with different sounds. She has her two essential words: “more” and “done.” But really the story takes place in the brain. New connections in the language centers, which are already so adapt at absorbing content, are now learning how to generate it.

The frustration she experiences in her current frame is real. She cannot yet articulate her level of awareness so she finds other ways to communicate: claps, hugs, dance steps, and some very effective pouty cries (effective with Dad at least).

My sense is that for those of us that want to talk away our problems, it’s useful to consider what it was like when the words were not yet there. And when we are struggling to articulate feelings, perhaps we should consider the strategies of a toddler. They certainly get their point across.