Lessons for life - Out of the mouths of young children continued....

In February I related a story about a 2 year old who understood that what you tell yourself affects the way you act. (See the 28 February entry) Here is another anecdote this time the wisdom of a 5 year old! The 5 year old had been visiting a new friend from her school class for a social engagement. The invite was being returned and the parent was concerned that the new friend was very quiet and polite and that his families three youngsters would all be too much for her. How would she cope? Discussing this with his 5 year old daughter he expressed the view that perhaps the little friend was very quiet and would it be ok? The quick reply was "Oh Dad, of course it will, she has a playground voice you know!" So at 5 we have the ability to make friends, see and appreciate them for what they are, recognise there is different behaviour for different places, and that people use different tones of voice. Young children notice everything and therefore they are experts in what brings life to a situation. They are excellent practitioners of Appreciative Inquiry. AI is simply 'paying attention' or 'noticing'. Noticing the good things and what works and brings life to a situation. Lessons for life from the 5 year olds! Much simpler, fun and to the point! Maybe they should be the teachers? Now, there is a thought for another day another blog.