Chapter 3- There you go!!!

One of the most commonly irritating traits in a kid aged between 3 and 6 is the questioning rounds they subject their parents and close ones alike to. Why does the questioning seem irritating because they are perceived to be dumb by the so-called educated grown-ups?

My elder sister and I were sipping a cup of coffee one evening and discussing some of the fascinating events they have been subject to. One particular event baffled me. My sister, her husband and the two kids went to a Chinese restaurant for dinner. My sister carried a small box of home made food for the little one alone. While the other 3 set out to eat their dinner, my sister took out the box of home made food for the little one and fed her from it. The eldest one was observing this all along and wondering why his little sister was subjected to such discrimination. So, he said- Mom- I have a doubt? Now, my sisters first reaction- oops here we are having a sumptuous dinner and do we really need this questioning and very smartly passed the day’s questions over to her husband. So, he went on- “Appa (Dad) why are you not giving Chinese food to my baby sister?
My Brother in LAW (BIL)- Because its not healthy to give them Chinese food till they are 2 years old*
Adith: But why Appa
My BIL: Because it affects brain growth and you don’t want your sister to have that problem, Do you?
Adith: Hmmmm….Hmmmmm….

A long pause followed which left everyone concerned; a bit anxious on where the next question is going to come from and that could come from anywhere…. But little did they prepare for the next one!!!

Adith (With a curious face): So do you mean to say all Chinese kids are brainless then.

My BIL: Ahem Ahem…. Silence… Took a spoonful of noodles and gaped into everyone’s eyes.

Now, here is a man who is known for his logic and analytical capability among his friends, colleagues and family, left wondering and baffled at a question from someone who is all of 6 years old. Did someone say “Kya Aap Panchvi pass ho?” (Are you smarter than a fifth grader?)

*Now we Indians have an age old custom, we do not give Chinese food to kids below 2 years as it contains Ajenomoto and the same is considered un-healthy and detrimental to the child’s growth. Now, that’s another of those traditions that we follow but with no logic and answer.