We had a fantastic response to last week's column. But,WHY is the coin-out-of-the ear trick MORE than just a funny joke?
First, you have to do the trick right. Ask the child how THEY did the trick NOT you.
Second, pay attention to how adults impact childhood belief in themselves.
What does this show about how adults empower each other…or not.
90% of four year olds will believe they did the trick themselves. Most say, "I don't know, I just did it."
Years ago, I hit on a parallel question for caregivers. I would ask nurses, "How do you give loving care?"
Most answered just like the kids, "I don't know, I just do it!"
This is one way leaders can confer a sense of magic powers on caregivers. "Wow, your smile just raised my spirits," I might say. Or "Your gracious presence is a powerful medication!"
Does this help communicate why the coin trick has its own way of affirming others?
Here is this weeks hilarious follow up: https://youtu.be/bLNKOaYOQm8
-Erie Chapman
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