@longgone: “Last week, one of my young cousins asked for an explanation of the term “insurance”. Relatives started using terms like “damages” and “compensation”, and the kid stopped listening about five words in. I gave her an example instead, and she got it. Apparently, the words we use can be overwhelming enough to shut down questions, and I think that’s horrible.”
This brings up a good point. Language is important because it’s a tool that we use to communicate with people. If we were writing words on paper and then burning them, there would be very little communication other than intrapersonal communication.
But since we generally use words that we feel best accomplish what we are attempting to communicate to other people, speaking in front of children can be a great learning tool for adults. They are honest, are learning the language, have confused or limited understanding of some of the complex concepts that are expressed in language, and can often provide some of the best lessons in our communication skills. Are we being overly complicated? Are we making unnecessary assumptions? Do we truly understand the words we are using? Maybe there are simpler, more concise tools for the job.
My language skills are not great. In the past, I have blamed my environment and education. But from what I can tell, my parents have a very limited vocabulary, have a minimal education, never read, and I do not recall them challenging me with vocabulary or complex subjects. I made conscious effort with my first-born to engage her as a person who wants to be challenged. And it didn’t take much effort. Once I started, it felt intuitive, and the interactions were so positive that it confirmed my suspicions about what children can handle.
Of course, I would never just repeat myself louder in hopes that my kids would understand me. And, it’s also not a constant vocabulary or concept lesson – fart jokes are just as common.