Baby ”A” loves flowers. She likes to pick pretty flowers or leaves, one for each hand, and carry them gently while walking or riding in her stroller. I spent the day with her yesterday, enjoying watching her explore her surroundings and discover new things.
She learned how to gently pick mint leaves and not squeeze the prickle bush beside the mint. She learned how to grab wood chips and dirt to scatter carefully at the bottom of the slide — imitating the older child who was most likely imitating the child she had met yesterday.
When do we stop imitating and start innovating? Or is life all about imitating right from birth?
Yesterday I was fascinated with the bumblebees collecting pollen and nectar. They dive in head-first, leaving only their bottoms showing. Much like a toddler diving head-first into new discoveries—oblivious sometimes to their surroundings.
Baby “A” has two very attentive parents, watching every step (and misstep), ready at all times to encourage good behaviour, teach and reprimand. When she is oblivious to her surroundings, her parents will be there to protect her, and to comfort her when they couldn’t protect her.
Reflections 