Why do you have to dumb yourself down when talking to kids?

Answer 1

I don't think it's "dumbing down". I think you just need to start framing things in simpler terms. Of course it depends on what age/intelligence you're talking about.

Answer 2

Well, it depends on what age the "kids" are. If they are tweens or teens and you dumb it down the response will be an eye rolling snotty retort. But if you are speaking to a toddler (age 2-5) it only becomes difficult for you when using words or concepts they don't yet have reference to. Because then you will be peppered with "why" or "what does that mean" and have to endlessly explain whatever it is that was above their level of understanding. Now, if you are very patient, it is a learning experience for them and that's fine. And even if they understand everything a 3 year old may endlessly ask "why." It depends upon the child you are speaking to. If they are shy or not familiar with you, maybe they won't ask about anything that goes over their head, but whatever you said will go in one ear and out the other. Really, by making yourself clear, with anyone you are speaking to, it only helps yourself to be understood.

Answer 3

I think of dumbing down to kids as 'baby talking' which is exactly not what to do with kids. I just use language appropriate for their age and development and speak in my normal tone.

Answer 4

Well, maybe simplifying isn't exactly dumbing down. Sometimes we get too involved and answer more than what the kids are actually answering and there may be such a thing as too much information. And interesting thought, though.

Answer 5

You don't "dumb" yourself down. Kids are younger than you. They haven't learned as much yet. You will be suprised when one day they surpass your knowledge! The schools are teaching more and more at younger ages. Be patient when you talk to kids. What you say is also teaching them how to act to kids younger than they are!!

Answer 6

properly it fairly is once you pull out your algebra textbook. maximum i'm no longer asserting all, yet maximum mom and dad can not do the mathematics we learn in college. My mom stopped being waiting to help me whilst i grow to be in grade 5. I completely understand and regrettably the accepted public continually prints the image. the accepted public of young people recently are impolite and disrespectful. The worst area is those that are actually not, are not being heard from. And ultimately adults no count what day and age will continually communicate down concerning to the extra youthful era,

Answer 7

It's a challenge in general to speak clearly, simply and directly. I recommend it when speaking to *anyone*.

To answer your question more to the point, I have found in teaching that you can speak in a typical adult style to kids 10 and older. If they don't understand something they often ask. To younger children, you have to pay more attention and check if they understand.

Answer 8

You really don't NEED to, it just feels like since they are so little you need to simplify things. I suppose on some level you are not going to discuss quantum physics with a one year old, but talking to them normally works very well, and actually will benefit them in the long run!

Answer 9

fantastic question ..
i dont think one have to dumb yourself down talking to kids.

Answer 10

You don't, but if you adjust your speech to a child's vocabulary, you have a better chance of being understood.

And science now proves that baby talk is useful with infants.