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Sub Category : Relationships

Growing up, it was almost disrespectful to ask adults why. It's as if the question was a challenge to some secret society authority.  As a parent, for most situations, I've reframed the question of why to be an opportunity for exploration.  Today, my son asked me, "Why do we call "W" double-U instead of double-V?" 


At first, I frowned confused by what he asking.  He looked at me inquisitively, waiting for my answer.  As it occurred to me what he was pondering, I shrugged as to ask him what he thought. When my wait time went on, he began to come up with his own answers.  I listened as he reasoned. 


"I guess if you write in cursive, it's okay to say double-U." He pauses.  "But, if you write like I do, then it's double-V." He rubbed his chin as though considering other possibilities. I waited. Then I shared a nugget (hint) to guide him- 'diagraph'.  


We used the term 'diagraph' to research and found the development and use of  v, u, and w through time. He realized that his observation based on the different forms in which the letter is written was very close to why we call "W" double-U.  His expression changed from uncertainty to confident.  


The hard part for me was holding back through his exploration of the letter. I like to talk and tell!  However, I know it is an invaluable lesson to allow my child to work his way through the quest for answers to his whys. 


It's easier said than done! However, we should allow children to develop ideas on their own and compare what they think to other ideas. Practice wait time so that it gives children opportunities to process their thoughts.  They learn far more from exploring the possibilities themselves, than simply being given an answer. 


Let them explore why.