The Gift of Details

Adam Grenier learned at Second City that vague scenes die, but specific details create opportunities.

'If someone's clearly watching television and I walk up and just say, "Oh, you're watching TV, cool." That's a yes statement. But if I come up and say, "Oh cool, you're watching TV. Is that an Alf episode? I haven't seen Alf since I was a kid." Just giving those specific details adds a ton of value.'

Kids are drowning in vague adult-speak. 'We'll go soon.' 'Maybe later.' 'In a little bit.' These create anxiety because they create uncertainty.

Try the improv approach. Instead of 'we're leaving soon,' say 'we're leaving after you put on your shoes and go potty.' Instead of 'we'll have a snack later,' say 'we'll have apple slices when the timer beeps.'

Specific details are a gift. They give your child something concrete to hold onto. They can prepare. They can predict. They can calm down.

Vagueness is the enemy of toddler peace.